Forest Service rolls out New Mexico recreation pass – Enchantment Pass

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) says it has a deal for recreation in New Mexico. The Enchantment Pass is the first state-wide pass issued for the Land of Enchantment.

New Mexico recreation pass means free access to 30+ areas

For those who buy the Enchantment Pass, it will give them free access to 30+ National Forest areas throughout the state. As well, pass holders will be free from having to pay for parking in day use areas or at picnic sites. The recreation pass will also cover up to a total of four in a vehicle—although those under 16 years of age won’t count toward the four.

Initially, may not be so “enchanting”

Some may not find the Enchantment Pass so enchanting—at least not initially. The $40 annual fee may be a bit of a turnoff, especially during the initial rollout. In its 2024 debut, this New Mexico recreation pass will only be valid for day use at two sites. One is Echo Amphitheater, a natural amphitheater in the Carson National Forest. However, the site is currently closed due to construction. It is “expected” to reopen, at least temporarily, in 2024. When it does, non-pass holders will pay $5 to park there. The other site where the Enchantment Pass can initially be used is at Canjilon Lakes. It’s an area of several small lakes, popular for trout fishing.

USFS officials are quick to point out that other day use areas will eventually be opened for use with the new recreation pass. Revenue generated from pass sales will be reinvested into local forest recreation sites. The Service says it will be used for trash pickups, septic and toilet pumping, painting, cleaning, addressing the backlog of deferred maintenance, conducting patrols, maintaining highly used trails, campsites and more.

The U.S. Forest Service Enchantment Passes are available at the Supervisor’s Office in Taos and the Canjilon, Camino Real and Questa ranger stations. You may want to call ahead to make sure your New Mexico recreation pass is in stock.

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