When the weather is beautiful in the Land of Enchantment, one of the best activities is to get outside and hit one of our numerous, incredible hiking trails. This crystal clear lake trail is situated within Carson National Forest by Red River and is one of the more popular lakes within our forests. While this trail is rated as moderate, bring your best hiking boots as there is a bit of an incline and it’s not a short hike. You’ll be rewarded for your hard work with breathtaking views along the way, and especially at the end of the trail when you reach the natural oasis that’s waiting. Let’s get ready for an other-worldly hiking experience in Red River.

Welcome to Goose Lake Trail in the Carson National Forest.

Troy R./AllTrails

This out-and-back trail is right near Red River, so after you visit the mountain town, this trail is a great way to see even sweeter beauty.

Ted Whisler/AllTrails

Goose Lake Trail is marked as moderately difficult because it’s quite lengthy; it’s about six miles to the lake and another six back.

Matt Bittner/AllTrails

This lofty trail isn’t too rough of terrain - it will just take a bit of time. Horseback riding and ATVs are permitted as well.

Lucious Mesch/AllTrails

The further along you get on this trail, the less marked it becomes. Don’t fret - just follow Goose Creek and it’ll lead you right to the lake.

Tourtheworld78/TripAdvisor

Once you reach the end, you’ll be met with enchanting forest views surrounding this natural oasis.

Anna V/TripAdvisor

Fishing is permitted at Goose Lake, so many hikers stop to catch a fish or two.

Cody Cooke/AllTrails

Goose Lake Trail might take a bit of extra energy, but the gorgeous lake at the end is worth all of your hard work.

Mark McAllister/AllTrails Address: Goose Lake Trail 66, Red River, NM, 87558

For more information on this trail and any possible closures, you can visit the U.S. Forest Service website right here.

Have you ever taken this awesome lake hike? Was it full of beautiful views? We’d love to hear all about your hiking experiences in the comments, and don’t forget to then go share photos from your New Mexico adventures with us in our New Mexico Nature Lovers Facebook group, or tag us on Instagram by tagging #onlyinnewmexico for a chance to be featured.

Troy R./AllTrails

Ted Whisler/AllTrails

Matt Bittner/AllTrails

Lucious Mesch/AllTrails

Tourtheworld78/TripAdvisor

Anna V/TripAdvisor

Cody Cooke/AllTrails

Mark McAllister/AllTrails

Address: Goose Lake Trail 66, Red River, NM, 87558

For more information on this trail and any possible closures, you can visit the U.S. Forest Service website right here.

For another incredible lake hike in the Land of Enchantment, check out this mountain lake trail in Taos.

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