Small Lakes of New Mexico
Beyond the big reservoirs, New Mexico holds a surprising number of smaller lakes, ponds and mountain waters — cool trout lakes high in the Sangre de Cristo and Gila country, quiet fishing ponds, and state-park and community waters close to town. These are the uncrowded spots: stocked rainbow trout lakes, tiny alpine gems reached by a short hike, urban fishing ponds, and warm-water holes full of bass, catfish and panfish. Most need only a New Mexico fishing license and a little know-how to find. This section gathers the state’s lesser-known lakes and ponds — where they are, what swims in them, how to reach the water, and what to expect for access, camping and a peaceful day beneath the New Mexico sun.
Williams Lake is a stunning alpine lake high in the
Small Lakes of New Mexico
Snow Lake is a remote little trout lake deep in the
Small Lakes of New Mexico
Todacheene Lake is a tiny but remarkable trout lake
Small Lakes of New Mexico
Galisteo Dam is a big flood-control dam on Galisteo
Small Lakes of New Mexico
Jemez Canyon Dam stands on the Jemez River in Sandoval
Small Lakes of New Mexico
Stinking Lake — also known as Burford Lake —
Small Lakes of New Mexico
Avalon Dam holds back Lake Avalon on the Pecos River
Small Lakes of New Mexico
Stone Lake is one of the finest trout lakes on the