One of our favorite places to travel to for a 360 view of the Lincoln National Forest is Monjeau Lookout located near Ruidoso, New Mexico. You can visit the lookout via the Crest Trail that is a 12.4 back trail that is very steep and will need to be traveled in good weather conditions. 

You can use the trail for hiking, walking, and trail running during the peak months of May through October. 

Monjeau Lookout was started to be built in 1936 and completed in 1940 by the Civilian Conservation Corps to serve as a lookout tower for fires. The lookout is located within the Lincoln National Forest and is a great destination for those seeking outdoor adventures in New Mexico.

The structure at the lookout is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and on the New Mexico State Register of Cultural Places. The dimensions for the structure are 14' x 14' using stone from the surrounding area and has a living quarter section that is 7' x 7' with a metal frame cab. 

You can reach the lookout by a 5.5 mile National Forest grave road just north of Ruidoso, New Mexico. You will also find 3 parking and camping areas on your way up to the lookout as well. 

Coordinates: 33°25′51″N 105°43′53″W

From: USDA Lincoln National Forest