Sitting Bull Falls
New Mexico • 150 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Sitting Bull Falls
Sitting Bull Falls is a stunning 150-foot waterfall located in the Lincoln National Forest in New Mexico. It is a unique desert oasis surrounded by rugged canyon terrain, offering visitors a refreshing escape in an otherwise arid environment.
The Setting
Sitting Bull Falls sits at 4,859 feet within Lincoln National Forest, in the mountains of New Mexico. At 150 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in New Mexico.
Height: 150 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Sitting Bull Falls (#68), a 0.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 100 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
SITTING BULL FALLS #68
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
3.06 miTrail Description
The trail to Sitting Bull Falls is a short, paved path leading directly to the waterfall viewing area. It is well-maintained and accessible for most visitors, including those with limited mobility. The trail offers scenic views of the surrounding canyon and desert landscape.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 150 feet. Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Sitting Bull Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Sitting Bull Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit due to mild temperatures. Summer can be hot, but the falls provide a refreshing escape. Winter visits are possible, but the area may experience closures due to weather conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Watch for flash flood warnings during monsoon season (July through September). Check with Lincoln National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the water and watch for flash flooding during rainy periods. Always stay on designated trails and avoid climbing on the falls.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 24 miles away
5 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 22 years of record
3.74 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Sitting Bull Falls is located approximately 42 miles west of Carlsbad, New Mexico. Visitors can access the falls via Sitting Bull Falls Road (Forest Road 276), which is well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area near the falls with ample space for visitors. Parking is located close to the picnic area and trailheads.
Elevation
4859 feet above sea level
Coordinates
32.243263° N, -104.697356° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early, especially during weekends and holidays, as the area can become crowded. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes if you plan to explore beyond the main viewing area. Be mindful of the desert environment and pack out all trash.
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For this easy 0.4 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Quality Inn & Suites Carlsbad Caverns Area
La Quinta by Wyndham Carlsbad
Comfort Suites Carlsbad
Sleep Inn & Suites Carlsbad Caverns Area
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Sunset Reef Campground
17.7 miles away · 0 sites
Sunset Reef Campground is a reclaimed well pad with 11 developed campsites; five RV spaces and six tent sites. Each site has a shaded picnic table, fire pit and grill for your camping convenience with a vault toilet on site. Visitors can dry camp at this campground for a maximum of five nights for free. If on the hunt for a great place to camp while exploring the two national parks in the area, this is the place to stay! Carlsbad Caverns is a 25-minute drive (14 miles) to the north and Guadalupe
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Nearby Attractions
Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park are all within driving distance.
Wildlife
The area is home to various desert wildlife, including lizards, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also spot unique plant species like yucca and agave.
Cities near Sitting Bull Falls
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