There are 2 nature trails near Carrizozo; one on the former golf course and another at Valley of Fires Recreation Area that attract bird watchers, nature lovers and walkers.
A small lake near the nature trail is stocked with trout and the town swimming pool is open during the summer. Also just off the nature trail is a tennis court and the Little League field is home to just one of the sports mentored by Carrizozo Youth Sports.
Smokey Bear Ranger District within the Lincoln National Forest offers hunting, camping and trails for OHV, hiking and horseback riding. An hour from Carrizozo, Ski Apache is located on part forest, part reservation and is owned and operated by the Mescalero Apache Tribe. Ski and snowboard season typically lasts from Thanksgiving to Easter and the zip line is open year round.
Ruidoso is the largest city and is about 30 miles away. Labeling itself the “Playground of the Southwest,” Ruidoso and adjoining Ruidoso Downs offer a mecca for horse racing fans, mountain bikers and disc golfers. Traditional golfers can choose from 7 private and municipal golf courses within a ten-mile radius of Ruidoso.