Here Are 11 Of The Most Beautiful Lakes In New Mexico, According To Our Readers
By Clarisa|Published December 22, 2022
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Clarisa
Author
Born and raised Kansan, Clarisa has lived in both tiny towns and cities during their time here in the Sunflower State. As a busy mother of one crazy kid, two cats, and two geckos, they write whenever there is spare time.
Beauty is often a matter of opinion, but there is an unquestionable beauty to many aspects of New Mexico’s beauty. Lakes are often some of the most scenic places to visit, but with so many options, how can we tell which are the best? To find a true list of the most beautiful lakes in New Mexico, we asked our readers on our Only In New Mexico Facebook Page to nominate their favorites. It was a close call for many, but the final cut contains 11 stunning spots to enjoy the scenery. Grab your road trip ideas list, because all of these belong on a beauty bucket list.
Starting off stunning with Abiquiu lake out in Rio Arriba County, sunsets are never boring with scenery like this. The 5,200-acre reservoir is a great fishing option, and if you need a reason to plan a weekend trip, there are plenty of attractions nearby to fill an itinerary.
Though it may be slowly drying out as time goes on, the beauty of Elephant Butte doesn't evaporate with it. As part of New Mexico's largest state park, there are endless angles to see and capture in photographs.
If you find yourself needing breaks from the summer heat, then Eagle Nest Lake might be the oasis you seek. Up at an elevation of 8,200 feet, the temperatures here never seem to reach as high. If you love watching local wildlife, finding the best angle for scenery, or just enjoying a day on the water, you'll have 2,400 acres of lake to use.
For another mountain escape, Fenton Lake is here with fishing, canoeing opportunities in addition to the scenery. Though there are only 37 acres to this lake, beauty comes in small packages too. After all, you don't need a large space to have a great day at the lake.
Snowshoeing and skiing are extra fun options you can enjoy out at El Vado Lake State Park, but the lake is the star of the show for sure. The lake itself covers 3,200 acres, and every inch is just as beautiful as the last.
Fishing and swimming are fan favorites out at Farmington Lake, where every bit of the lake's 250 acres is enjoyed by all. With only non-motorized boats allowed, the beauty here can be enjoyed in comparative peace and quiet. Who doesn't love a nice day by the water with no revving motors?
Latir Peak might be the 12th highest summit in New Mexico, but the lakes here rank higher in their own category. There are nine lakes altogether that appear one after another in the valley, and each one is a little slice of heaven. Pictured above is lake #9, if you have fallen in love with the scene here and want to visit it yourself.
At the base of New Mexico's highest mountain sits Williams Lake, home to some of New Mexico's best views. Though it is named after a gold miner, many would argue that the true treasure here is the scenery and wildlife around you. It takes a bit of work to reach, but it's worth every step.
Facing a mountain view, Bluewater Lake State Park has everything you need for a trip to the lake. Boating, hiking trails, year-round fishing, and camping make for a great vacation if you find yourself most relaxed when surrounded by scenery like this. The hard part is picking the perfect camping spot to get the best angle on the views.
On the New Mexico-Colorado border, Lake Maloya is a prime choice for fans of sailing and waterfowl spotting. Since it is also a public water supply, there is no swimming or using gasoline motors allowed in the waters. Calm and clean, just like it should be.
Last on the list but certainly not least, Caballo Lake is a beautiful body of water set against the Caballo Mountains. All of your favorite activities are available to enjoy, whether you prefer to have fun on the water or relax while dry on the shore.
Of course, this doesn’t cover all of New Mexico’s beautiful lakes, because that list would likely include every lake we have. Other than lakes specifically, there are also plenty of other amazing natural attractions in New Mexico to visit, if you still have your bucket list out. If you already go on plenty of adventures, consider joining the New Mexico Nature Lovers Facebook group to share your own photos and see more of the Land of Enchantment in your feed.
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