I-10 doesn’t have to be a long, boring drive… You’re a little ahead of schedule and you’ve got a few extra hours, so what’s your hurry? Why not take a side trip? Get off the Interstate and discover the real America… small towns, scenic coastlines, historic communities and some of the west coast’s most enjoyable roadtrips.
About Billy the Kid Trail…
The American Southwest is steeped in the history of the Wild West, where legends and outlaws once roamed. One of the most notorious figures of this era was none other than Billy the Kid. If you’re a history buff or simply intrigued by tales of the Wild West, the Billy the Kid Trail is an adventure you won’t want to miss.
Located in New Mexico, the Billy the Kid Trail offers a journey through the life and times of one of the West’s most famous outlaws. Spanning from Fort Sumner to Lincoln, this trail takes you through the very landscapes where Billy the Kid and his gang once rode.
The Billy the Kid Trail is more than just a historical journey; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the rugged landscapes and folklore of the Wild West. The breathtaking views of the New Mexico terrain are a bonus for nature enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of tales from the Wild West, or simply seeking an adventure through captivating landscapes, the Billy the Kid Trail is an experience that promises to transport you back in time, offering a deeper understanding of the legend that is Billy the Kid.
Billy the Kid Trail
Length: 84.0 mi / 135.2 km
Time: Two hours to drive the byway
Fees: None
Start your adventure in Fort Sumner, where you’ll find the gravesite of Billy the Kid, a humble resting place that stands as a testament to his enduring legacy. Visit the Billy the Kid Museum and discover artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that provide a glimpse into his tumultuous life.
As you continue along the trail, you’ll come to Lincoln, a town frozen in time, where Billy the Kid was imprisoned and made his daring escape. Explore historic buildings and museums that preserve the spirit of the Wild West, offering a window into the past.
Follow this byway through the rugged beauty of the million-acre Lincoln National Forest. From grassy plains to dense pine forests, the region is known for its stunning views and cool mountain climate.
Driving the Byway
- Begin in Ruidoso and follow NM-48 to Hwy 70.
- Take Hwy 70 northeast to Hwy 380.
- Travel on Hwy 380 northwest to junction with NM-220.
- At the junction, take a small detour south through Fort Stanton and end up at the junction with NM-48.
- Return to junction of Hwy 380 and NM-220.
- Continue on Hwy 380 northwest to Capitan.
- At the junction of Hwy 380 and NM-48, take a left onto NM-48 and continue south through Angus.
- Continue on NM-48 south until you reach Ruidoso, the end of the byway loop.
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