The Lincoln National Forest has lifted all fire restrictions across its three ranger districts following recent rainfall and cooler temperatures, reducing the forest fire danger to Moderate. Visitors are still urged to practice wildfire safety. Please note that the Village of Ruidoso’s Level I Fire Restrictions remain in effect within Village limits.
The Village of Ruidoso recognized outstanding employees and departments through its Quarterly Employee Recognition and Rewards Program. Parks & Recreation was named Department of the Quarter, while Andrew Sullens, Isaiah Spitty, Elaine Sanchez, and Ezequiel Alvarez were honored as Employees of the Quarter for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to public service.
Effective July 20, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., the Village of Ruidoso reduced fire restrictions from Level II to Level I following improved fire conditions. Commercial fire pits approved by the Fire Marshal and outdoor cooking on all appliances, including charcoal grills, are now permitted. Non-commercial fire pits, campfires, and fireworks remain prohibited.
The Lincoln National Forest is continuing post-fire flood mitigation work in Upper Cedar Creek Canyon and Brady Canyon beginning July 19. Crews will install natural woody debris structures to slow floodwaters, reduce erosion, and support long-term watershed recovery. Temporary closures may be in place near active work areas to protect public safety.
Watch the 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 Ruidoso race weekend livestreams and follow the action from anywhere. The weekend features the IRONMAN 70.3, 5150 Olympic, and Sprint triathlon events. Find the live video stream, plus links to road closures, traffic information, parking updates, spectator guidance, official course maps, and race weekend resources.
The Village of Ruidoso has published official traffic information for IRONMAN® 70.3 Ruidoso race weekend. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead by reviewing road closures, neighborhood access, traffic guidance, downloadable documents, and frequently asked questions before traveling on July 11–12.
The Lincoln National Forest is reminding residents and visitors to recreate responsibly this Fourth of July weekend. Follow designated OHV routes, respect dispersed camping rules, observe Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, and remember that fireworks are prohibited on Forest Service lands. Help protect wildlife, public lands, and the forest for future generations.
The July 2026 Village of Ruidoso Insider features IRONMAN 70.3 Ruidoso, the launch of commercial air service, major water infrastructure investments, monsoon preparedness, and updates on the Outdoor Warning System. Also included are Village Council news, library and museum highlights, school updates, healthcare news, Chamber and Midtown reports, and upcoming community events.
Temporary closures and parking changes will be in effect July 6–12 during IRONMAN 70.3 Ruidoso. Grindstone Lake, the Wibit Water Park, and the White Mountain Sports Complex parking lot will be closed, while hiking trails, disc golf, the dog park, and pickleball courts remain open with alternate access. Facilities will reopen following the event on July 13.
Explore the history of Ruidoso and New Mexico through Lines Across the Land, a special exhibit now on display at the Wingfield Heritage House Museum. Featuring historic maps that trace the region’s evolving communities, transportation routes, and landscapes, the exhibit offers a unique perspective on local heritage. Open through the end of September.
The Village of Ruidoso has launched RuidosoReady.com, a new preparedness and recovery website that helps residents, businesses, and visitors prepare for emergencies, access recovery resources, and build resilience year-round. During active emergencies, the Village Emergency Information page will continue to provide official updates, alerts, road closures, and incident information.
The Lincoln National Forest will reopen Oak Grove Campground on July 3, 2026, following extensive restoration after the South Fork Fire. More than 2,000 hazardous trees were removed and 30 campsites restored, marking another milestone in regional recovery. Visitors should plan for first-come, first-served camping and possible delays on NM 532 due to ongoing road construction.
