We recently wrote about getting outdoors on Black Friday and into some of New Mexico’s greatest state parks. Our beautiful parks are perfect places for outdoor recreation, and for getting in touch with nature. Here’s a lesser-known park that has such spectacular scenery that it will take your breath away.

Sugarite Canyon State Park is located at 211 Highway 526 in Raton. The park is open 24 hours per day, year-round.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
This small park covers just 3,600 acres, but they are beautiful acres indeed. You'll enjoy vast views, lush forests, meadows and two gorgeous lakes.
Berndadine Barela/flickr
Basalt cliffs rise above this pretty valley on three sides.
Christine E./Tripadvisor
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity here. Deer are abundant in the park, both large...
Berndadine Barela/flickr
...and small. How adorable are these little fawns?
Berndadine Barela/flickr
Keep an eye out - you might even see a bear.
Lookin_for_stuff/Tripadvisor
The Visitors Center has several bird feeders that attract local feathered friends.
okaugust/Tripadvisor

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Sit quietly for a few minutes near these feeders, and you're certain to see hummingbirds, grosbeaks, towhees and more.
okaugust/Tripadvisor
You'll find 13 miles of hiking trails to help you explore Sugarite Canyon.
Berndadine Barela/flickr
There's a trail here for every hiker. Check out the state park's hiking trail guide for more information.
In the early 1900s, this place was the site of a coal mine and the small town of Sugarite. You can still see some remnants of the buildings here.
okaugust/Tripadvisor
Take the Coal Camp Interpretive Trail to see the ruins of the town. The loop trail is just under one mile long; you can extend your hike up to Mine #2 and Mine #3 to see even more.
okaugust/Tripadvisor
The lakes provide boating and fishing opportunities. Explore with your kayak or canoe; or use the boat ramp at Lake Maloya to launch your motorized vessel. Both Lake Maloya and Lake Alice are stocked with trout.
Okiemom2007/Tripadvisor
Stay overnight in one of 40 developed sites at the Soda Pocket and Alice Lake Campgrounds. You'll find 10 electrical hook-up sites at Lake Alice.
Linda H/Tripadvisor
Amenities include shower, modern restrooms, comfort stations, firewood and more. Click here for more information and to book a campsite.
If you prefer a more secluded, tree-lined spot, choose a tent site.
Berndadine Barela/flickr
Once you see a sunset over Lake Maloya, you'll definitely want to book a campsite.
Bernadine Barela/flickr

Have you visited Sugarite Canyon State Park recently? We’d love to see your pics and read your stories!

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