In an effort to preserve our natural resources and manage visitor capacity, the Village of Ruidoso will require reservations to access Grindstone Lake on Friday – Sunday from 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM. (Subject to change as conditions or impacts develop). Grindstone Lake will be kept at 300 vehicles per day through Labor Day.
“We’ve had tremendous interest in Grindstone and Alto Lakes this spring and summer as folks want to get out of the house and out of the heat,” said Mayor Lynn Crawford. “We want to make sure visiting the lake is an enjoyable experience for our residents, second homeowners and visitors without harming our natural resources or jeopardizing public safety.”
FAQ’s
How much does it cost to visit Grindstone Lake?
Parking is $5 a day or $20 for an annual pass for residents of the Village. Entrance into Grindstone Lake is free before 8:00 AM on Monday – Thursday and every day of the week after 6:00 PM.
Do I need to make a reservation to access Grindstone Lake during the week?
No, reservations are only required Friday - Sunday.
When can I make a reservation?
Residents of the Village of Ruidoso and second homeowners within the Village will have first priority to make reservations on Monday - Wednesday of each week. Visitors will then have the ability to make a reservation starting on Thursday for the upcoming weekend. Once the reservations have reached capacity limits, the lake will be closed to drop-in, day-use visitors. No refunds or rain checks will be issued.
Where do I make a reservation?
Make a reservations here. The first step is to create an account or log in, if you have an existing account.
What do I do if I bought a season parking pass?
If a resident has purchased a season parking pass, please call the Parks and Recreation Office at 575-257-5030 for access to the reservation system.
Is the Wibit or Campground opened at Grindstone?
At this time the Wibit and Campground remain closed. Trails are open for hiking, biking, disc golf and horseback riding.
Do I need a reservation if I’m just going hiking?
Reservations are required for all lake and trail activity on Friday - Sunday from 6 AM - 6 PM.
PLEASE KEEP IN MIND
Campfires, charcoal grills and alcohol are prohibited at Grindstone Lake.
Help Keep Ruidoso Beautiful and remove any trash you bring to the lake.
There will be only one designated entry point into Grindstone Lake. Additional access points to the lake area will be closed and monitored. Parking on Grindstone Canyon Road from Carrizo Canyon Road to Resort Drive is prohibited on Friday - Sunday. Access to Grindstone Stables will remain open.
“We know this will be a different experience for our residents and guests, but we want to make sure we’re not overwhelming the lake, are able to practice social distancing and are managing traffic in the area around the lake,” said Crawford. “We will be hosting a free day on Friday, July 3 for the residents of the Village of Ruidoso to enjoy a day at the lake at no cost.”