Lakes & Rivers in Angel Fire, NM
Some of the region’s most scenic lakes and rivers are in Angel Fire, New Mexico—easily accessed for peaceful paddle mornings, vibrant fall reflections, or a quiet riverside picnic. Monte Verde Lake, right in the heart of Angel Fire, provides a serene escape for kayaking, paddleboarding, and trout fishing. Just ten miles north, Eagle Nest Lake State Park opens to wide-open mountain views and year-round recreation, from summer boating to winter ice fishing. For anglers and adventurers, the Cimarron River flows east through rugged canyon terrain, famous for its clear waters and wild brown trout. Angel Fire’s waterways define the beauty and balance of mountain living.
Monte Verde Lake
Monte Verde Lake sits right inside Angel Fire Resort, making it the most accessible body of water in the area. This small alpine lake is spring-fed and stocked with trout during summer months. It is a favorite for fishing from the shore or from small boats. Only non-motorized craft are allowed, so you’ll see kayaks, paddleboards, and rowboats dotting the surface. There is a lakeside trail for pleasant walks or picnics.
Eagle Nest Lake State Park
Just nine miles down the road from Monte Verde Lake lies Eagle Nest Lake State Park, a much larger alpine lake set at 8,200 feet elevation. With wide-open water and surrounding mountains, it’s a hub for both motorized and non-motorized boating, as well as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing for trout and kokanee salmon. The park also offers camping, hiking, and wildlife watching, with bald eagles and elk often spotted in the area. Its quick drive from Angel Fire makes it an easy half-day or full-day excursion.
Cimarron River
The Cimarron River flows through Cimarron Canyon State Park, located along the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway just beyond Eagle Nest. About a 30–40 minute drive from Angel Fire, this river is well known among fly-fishers for its brown and rainbow trout, and the canyon setting provides a dramatic backdrop with sheer cliffs and dense forest. Trails parallel to the river give hikers a chance to explore the canyon’s terrain, and campgrounds make it a popular overnight destination.