This is descriptions is adapted from the U.S. Forest Service (https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/lincoln/recarea/?recid=34408):
Located on the western rim of New Mexico’s beautiful Sacramento Mountains, the Rim Trail (Trail #105) is a National Recreation Trail that winds through pine and fir trees, quaking aspen and green meadows for 31.2 miles. It begins at the southern end of the Village Of Cloudcroft along NM130 and ends 31.2 miles later at the Sacramento River Road south of Sunspot. The Rim Trail was the first U.S. Forest Service Trail in New Mexico to be designated as a National Recreation Trail in 1968. It is a combination of old Indian paths, railroad grades, homestead trails and logging routes linked together by newer section built in the 1960’s and beyond. The majority of the trail passes through shaded stands of fir, pine and quaking aspen. At various points along the route there are spectacular views of the Tularosa Basin and White Sands National Park 4,000-5,000 ft. below. The Rim Trail is open all year but becomes difficult when snow is present during winter months. Much of the trail is located at elevations near 9,000’ making it moderately more difficult. The trail is also open to horses and pack animals, bikes, and motorcycles.
