New Mexico National Forests announce new statewide recreation pass

The USDA Forest Service Southwestern Regional office, in conjunction with the national forests of New Mexico, introduces the Enchantment Pass, a new annual recreation pass intended specifically for day use sites at Forest Service units within New Mexico.

Designed to increase access for underserved communities and to support inclusivity on National Forest System lands within New Mexico, the Enchantment pass is an affordable option as site fees increase to keep up with infrastructure maintenance. The pass will be accepted at day use sites, parking areas, picnic sites, and trailheads on the Carson, Cibola, Gila, Lincoln, and Santa Fe National Forests.

Starting Dec. 12, 2023, the Enchantment Pass may be purchased for $40 at the Cuba, Coyote, Jemez, Espanola, Pecos, and Las Vegas District Offices and at the Santa Fe National Forest Supervisor’s Office in Santa Fe. Passes can be purchased during business hours from 8:00 a.m.

to 4:30 p.m.

“The USDA Forest Service, Southwestern Region is pleased to introduce the Enchantment Pass for use on the National Forests of New Mexico. During the hustle and bustle of the busy holiday season, New Mexico National Forest day-use sites are the perfect places to enjoy the serenity of nature,” said Southwestern Regional Forester Michiko Martin. “We hope this pass will make it easier for more people to get outside with friends and family to enjoy the calming sights and sounds of the forest. The Enchantment Pass will bolster outdoor recreation activities throughout the state, boost rural economies and increase access to recreational opportunities for everyone.” Priced significantly less than its national equivalent, America the Beautiful Interagency Passes, the Enchantment Pass will appeal to families and residents who wish to frequent day use sites within the national forests of New Mexico.

Revenue generated from the Enchantment Pass will be reinvested into local forest recreation sites in the form of trash pickups, septic and toilet pumping, painting, cleaning, addressing the backlog of deferred maintenance, conducting patrols, maintaining highly used trails, cabin/lookout rentals, campsites, and more.