Take a Day Trip from El Paso to Cloudcroft, NM :: Shopping, Dining, & Hiking

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Cloudcroft is a hidden gem. Nestled in the Lincoln National Forest, Cloudcroft, NM is a perfect day trip destination from El Paso, TX.

From the hiking to the shopping and the food, there’s something for everyone, any age.

After a two-hour drive from El Paso, TX, your eyes will gleam with wonder as you drive into the woods. Once you get to the top of the mountain, Cloudcroft is your oyster.

Head on down Burro Street. With a plethora of shops, you could spend hours walking up and down this quaint little strip of town.

cloudcroft, NM, Day trip

Grab a coffee at Black Bear Coffee Shop.

200 Burro Ave Cloudcroft, NM 88317

“Our building on Burro Ave was a post office back in the day. It oozes with the vibrant and welcoming spirit of a community gathering place. Black Bear would not be complete without our gorgeous Synesso Espresso machine (we call her Nessie), and our perfectly roasted beans from artisan roasters in New Mexico.”

A lavender latte is never a bad idea. 

Next, stop by Into the Woods.

505 Burro Ave #102 Cloudcroft, NM 88317

This is a funky and eclectic place where everyone is welcome and you’re bound to find something vintage and original to you. Into the Woods is a mesh of old and new. The shop carries vintage one-of-a-kind finds along with small offerings from local businesses. From candles to clothes to sunglasses to stickers and woodwork, this place is a must-see.

After your shopping adventure, skip on down to Eight the Cake.

506A Burro Ave. Cloudcroft, NM 88317

This unique bakery offers some delicious treats. From pie to cupcakes, even smoothies and hot cocoa, everything is made in-house and you can taste the difference. I think it’s the love they pour into it.

After that sugar rush, you might need a salty fix. Head on over to Brother-N-Law’s BBQ.

209 James Canyon HWY Cloudcroft, NM 88317

“We are brothers-in-law from Central Texas that love smoking meat. This is our dream to own a BBQ joint and share our love for Texas-style BBQ with you and your family. We are blessed to live in one of the best places on the planet–Cloudcroft, NM.”

BBQ is never a bad idea. I personally recommend the brisket. It’s juicy and tender. Don’t forget the scrumptious potato salad and brisket fries.

cloudcroft, NM, Day tripNow to walk off all that tasty food, here are a couple of stunning trails to walk.

Little Apache Trail 

This easy trail is 3.2 miles in length. Keep an eye out for pretty deer and elk as they like to cross the adjacent meadows.

OSHA Trail 

This quick 2.5-mile trail is a popular one. Moderate in skill but beautiful with the scenery.

Zinker Canyon Trail 

This hard trail is 7.8 miles long. It’s for more skilled hikers, but this is a wonderful option with breathtaking scenery.

Bluff Springs

If you’re lucky enough, you can see a natural waterfall made from the natural spring water. It’s a beautiful place to picnic or camp.

Town Christmas Tree in Cloudcroft, NM
Fresh snow

Enjoy your day trip to Cloudcroft, NM!

Whatever you decide to do in Cloudcroft, you will make unforgettable memories. And that’s what life is about. Memories with loved ones. 

Looking for more day trips? Check out these recommendations to visit Las Cruces or White Sands.

Originally published May 2022.



The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of El Paso Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.

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