Sometimes, the best part of a mountain getaway is doing absolutely nothing. Carson Cabin offers a peaceful, private setting in the Upper Valley of Red River—perfect for slowing down.

Favorite ways to relax at Carson Cabin:

• Sip your favorite drink on the wraparound porch with mountain views.

• Cozy up with a good book by the fireplace.

• Hang a hammock and take in the peaceful sounds of nature.

With cool mountain air and endless trails, Red River is a hiking paradise. Whether you want a casual walk along a creek or a summit challenge, there’s something for every level.

Easy to Moderate Hikes

• Red River Nature Trail – A flat 2-mile family-friendly trail starting near the Platinum Lift at Red River Ski Area.

• Columbine Trail – An easy start with footbridges over the creek, becoming more advanced as it climbs. Located at Columbine Campground.

• Sawmill Park Trail – 1.8-mile trail through aspens and ancient bristlecone pines with Wheeler Peak views.

• Middle Fork Lake Trail – A moderate 4.3-mile trail to a beautiful alpine lake.

ated in the heart of Red River, Sitzmark has been the go-to shop for all your outdoor needs for over 40-years. Sitzmark's guides are great teachers for beginners and can be a priceless resource to seasoned fishermen by helping them adapt to current conditions and navigate to prime fishing locations in the area.

Challenging Day Hikes

• Goose Creek Trail – 12 miles roundtrip to stunning Goose Lake.

• Lost Lake Trail – A steady climb over 11 miles through alpine scenery.

• Horseshoe Lake Trail – 12.4-mile route with breathtaking views, perfect for experienced hikers.

• Wheeler Peak via Bull of the Woods or Williams Lake – The highest point in New Mexico. Choose the longer scenic route (14.5 mi) or the shorter but steep 8.5-mile route.

Scenic Bonus

• Wild Rivers Recreation Area – Hike along the rim of the Rio Grande Gorge and enjoy epic views at La Junta Point. Located about 50 minutes from Carson Cabin.

Fishing in Red River is a summertime tradition. Whether you're fly fishing the Upper Valley or casting into a lake, Red River offers exceptional angling opportunities.

• Around the Cabin – Walk to public river access within 6–10 minutes. Great for early morning or evening fishing.
• In Town Fishing – Stocked waters and easy access make this ideal for families and beginners.
• Special Trout Waters – Between town and the Upper Valley, fish for rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout in restricted tackle areas.
• Red River Hatchery – A great year-round fishing spot with river access and a stocked kids' pond. Located in Questa, about 35–40 minutes away.
• Cimarron Canyon – World-class trout fishing on your way in or out of Red River. Access from Tolby Campground or Palisades Sill.
• Rio Grande Access – Fish for rainbows, browns, and pike. Try John Dunn Bridge or Wild Rivers Area for river access.
• Eagle Nest Lake – Cast from shore or boat in this well-stocked lake southeast of Red River.

Plan your fishing trip: Guide to Red River Fly Fishing »

Bring your UTV, ATV, motorcycle, or 4×4 and explore the rugged wilderness that surrounds Red River. Carson Cabin has ample parking and space for trailers.

Permit Reminder: New Mexico OHV permits are required and available online.

Top Trails Near Carson Cabin:

• Goose Lake Road – Moderate trail to alpine lake with trout fishing and wildlife spotting.

• Old Red River Pass – Historic switchbacks and stunning Upper Valley views.

• 4th of July Canyon – A steep, technical ride for experienced OHV drivers.

• Greenie Peak Trail System – Reach New Mexico’s highest drivable peak!

• Pioneer Canyon – See mining relics along this historic road.

• Cabresto Canyon & Lake – Access Midnight Meadows and Heart Lake Trail.

Motorcycle-Only Trails:

• • Pioneer Loop – Short and technical.

  • Elephant Rock Loop – A 12-mile advanced ride through high mountain terrain.

Local Rentals:

• • Weezie’s Wild Rides – Rent UTVs or book a guided tour. Located on Main Street in Red River.
    weezieswildrides.com

Experience the Old West on horseback with a guided ride through mountain trails and open meadows.

Top Horseback Outfitters:

• Red River Stables – Guided rides through Red River Ski Area.
  redriverstables.com

• Bobcat Pass Wilderness Adventures Private ranch rides in the Enchanted Forest.
  bobcatpass.com

While Red River doesn’t have trails dedicated solely to mountain biking, many of the area’s scenic hiking trails are open to bikes and offer rewarding rides for adventurous cyclists. For purpose-built mountain biking experiences, there are several top-tier bike parks and trail systems just a short drive away.

Nearby Mountain Biking Destinations:

• • Angel Fire Bike Park – Located less than an hour away, this is the largest lift-served bike park in the Rockies, offering over 60 miles of purpose-built trails for all skill levels.
    angelfireresort.com

  • Northside Trails (Taos Ski Valley) – A high-altitude loop system of forested and alpine singletrack with breathtaking views, directly across from Taos Ski Valley.
    ridenorthside.com

  • Taos Bike Park – Features flowy lift-served trails like Green Chili Flow Trail and more under development.
    skitaos.com

Pro Tip: For mountain biking in and around Red River, we recommend using AllTrails to check trail conditions and rider feedback on bike-friendly hiking routes.

Whether you’re planning a week of outdoor adventure or simply want to escape to the mountains for some peace and quiet, Carson Cabin in Red River, NM is your home base for summer fun.

Plan your stay and experience the best of Red River. Book Now »