Sitting Bull Falls, Carlsbad, NM

Sitting Bull Falls is located in Lincoln National Forest near Carlsbad, NM.  The drive is scenic with the Guadalupe Mountains along the road. The road winds through the hills and valleys. There are some curves and hills, but it would be manageable in an RV,  Once you arrive at Sitting Bulls Falls, parking was fine. There is an upper and lower parking area,  There is a charge of $5/car to use the facilities. This area is day use only, and the entry gate closes at 4.  There are several picnic shelters with grills and restrooms at the park.  The park is very clean and in good condition.

A paved walkway to the observation deck is a smooth and easy walk. Once at the end of the walk, the view of the falls is spectacular.   A stairway at the end of the observation deck leads here down to the water.  The falls are fed by an underground spring. In contrast to the more arid area surrounding the falls, the landscape along the water is much more lush and green.

After you have viewed the falls from below there is a nature trails to the top to allow you to view the area from a higher elevation. This trail is not paved and though well marked, not easy. Be sure to look around the surrounding ridges carefully, while we were there, we saw a Barbary Sheep and a deer.  The Park Host said there are 6 of these sheep in the park.  If visiting during the summer, it is better to come during the week. On weekends, locals use the area heavily for swimming. The hotter it gets, the more crowded it is.

Another note about the drive to Sitting Bull Falls, fill up before you go. There are no gas stations after the turn off 285 and cell phone serviceis sketchy at best.

The Carlsbad KOA is a great place to stay for a visit to Sitting Bull Falls.

Cliffs around the Falls

View above the Falls

Picnic Shelter