Lodging
Cloudcroft New Mexico lodging, cabins, vacation rentals, houses, bed and breakfast, motels, hotels. Master resource list for the best places to stay in and around the Village. Web sites, phone numbers, email addresses, contact information.
In our Cloudcroft vacation rentals, we offer a rustic cabin experience with a touch of modern convenience. Our charming cabins provide the perfect retreat amidst the tranquil beauty of the Sacramento Mountains. Step outside and enjoy our small pavilion, where you can gather with friends and family to share stories and laughter under the clear mountain skies. Fire up the barbeque grills for a delicious outdoor feast, or simply relax at our picnic tables surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. Located in a prime spot, our cabins offer easy access to all the attractions and activities that Cloudcroft has to offer. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the nearby hiking trails or simply looking to unwind in the serenity of the mountains, our vacation cabins provide the perfect home base for your Cloudcroft getaway!
Visit our website www.cabinsatcloudcroft.com for more information, for photos, to see availability, or to book a cabin. Call 575-682-2396 or Karl’s mobile phone at 806-763-3010 for personal service or visit reservations@cabinsatcloudcroft.com
Recapture the almost forgotten ambiance of the Boardinghouse! This updated version of a log home is furnished with comfortable country antiques, complete with wood burning stove, decks that overlook Cloudcroft, and a cozy kitchen where an old fashioned breakfast is served daily. All rooms have queen or king size beds, private baths, and lovely views and just a half block from the “boardwalk” shopping area. For more information, call 575.682.3601 or 575.551.2468, email linda@cloudcroftbnb.com, or visit our Web Site.
Conveniently located just one block off Hwy 82, the Summit Inn is one of Cloudcroft´s finest lodging establishments. All rooms feature wall-to-wall carpet, phones, color cable TV, kitchenettes complete with dishes and utensils, and all linens. Daily maid service is provided. The Summit Inn has several cottages which are ideal for those who desire a little more space and privacy. Weekly rates are available for both rooms and cottages.
At 9,000 feet above sea level, it’s bound to take your breath away. Nestled amongst the cool mountain pines and aspens of Cloudcroft, New Mexico lies an enchanting retreat with world-class golf, elegant dining, romantic accommodations and unique spa services. The Lodge offers 61 well-appointed rooms with a Victorian flair.
The Lodge Retreat, located across from The Lodge, houses four private luxury suites adjoined by a shared kitchen and recreation area.
Within walking distance lies the Pavilion Bed and Breakfast Inn. Built in 1899, this restored historic building provides 10 charming rooms with simple yet rustic decor.
For reservations, call (866) 595-6343 (toll free) or visit our web site at www.TheLodgeResort.com.
Clean rooms with cable TV, queen size beds, ground level entrance, and within easy walking distance of Burro Street shopping and dining. Located in one of Cloudcroft’s landmark buildings just off Hwy 82. Call us at (575) 682-2045 or visit our Web Site for more information.
Just right for your group size and budget. Cloudcroft Properties has a list of some of the finest vacation properties available in the Cloudcroft area. They range in price from $75 to $225 per night (6 people or less). For more information, call (877) 478-0426 (toll free) or (575) 682-4555, or see our Web Site. You can FAX us at: (575) 682-4556.
The Best Kept Lodging Secret in Cloudcroft…
We offer nightly, weekly and monthly stays that are affordable, luxurious, comfortable and charming. Our rates start at $125/night for two people and our square footage ranges approximately 1,000 1,400 sq. ft. Wow! Compare that to a hotel room with a bed and bathroom and naturally we come out way ahead.
The secluded and privately owned homes at Spur Landing are tastefully furnished to include a fully-equipped kitchen, living room, fireplace or wood stove, private deck with a grill, two bathrooms, and either a one bedroom, two bedroom or two bedroom with a loft and free wifi. Some homes overlook the golf course and all are near the Lincoln National Forest. Whether you’re hiking, biking, horseback riding, bird watching, hunting, snow skiing, snowmobiling or enjoying any other activity or maybe you’re just here to relax, you will enjoy your stay with us!
Spur Landing is positioned off the beaten path, in a quiet mountain setting neighborhood. We are within walking distance to Burro Street, which boasts cafés, boutiques, shops and dining that draw neighborhood locals. Even if you’re only slightly adventurous, or just in love with a particular location, you’ll be living like a local. Just check in and your townhouse becomes your home-away-from-home for the length of your stay. It’s that simple!
We also accommodate family vacations, romantic get-a-ways, reunions and large groups.
For reservations or more information, call 575-682-2700, email info@spurlanding.com or visit our website at www.spurlanding.com.
Relax in luxury in our custom-built, two story, mountain home. It’s light, bright, and fully furnished with special items from our worldwide travels. Sleeps 6 to 8 comfortably with 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, and a loft. Free Wi-Fi, Internet TV, DVD, gas fireplace, large kitchen and dining area, washer/dryer, big trees, balcony, patio with grill and picnic table, level parking, and a large spa tub in master bath. The Master is downstairs with a king bed and a second Queen bedroom is also downstairs. A Queen bedroom and a loft with twin beds are upstairs, as well as a small Yoga or Star/Sun room. Enjoy a short walk to the Lodge, the golf course, the Park, and downtown Cloudcroft. See https://www.heathcabin.com/.
Linda and Ted Heath
phone 505 977 9243
We have 7 cabins and 3 Motel Rooms ranging in price from $55 to $225/night. We also have 10 RV Spaces for $20/night or $290/month. Whether you just want to get away from the city life, hold your family reunion, or church retreat, we’ve got you covered. We’re located just off Hwy 82 at mile marker 29, between Cloudcroft and Mayhill on Hwy 82. For more information, call (575)322-2329, email LazyDayCabins@gmail.com, or visit our website, www.lazydaycabins.com.
We also offer a “Protect & Serve Discount” for active or retired, Military, Law Enforcement, Firefighters, and EMS.
Take a relaxing retreat in our newly build handcrafted log cabin. Step out the back door into the National Forest to enjoy hiking, biking, or snowshoeing; or go for a short walk (1/2 mile) out the front door to Burro Street for a little shopping or a bite to eat. Log home is 2500 sq. ft. and sleeps 10 comfortably. We have a newly added hot tub, fully furnished kitchen, game room with foosball table, river rock fireplace, HDTV/VCR/DVD/Cable. Wifi access, grill, washer/dryer. There are decks and a balcony with scenic views of Lincoln National Forest. It’s the perfect place for a romantic weekend, a get-away with friends, or a fun-filled family vacation.
Visit our website www.bearridgelogcabin.com for more information, for photos, to see availability, or to make reservations. Call 575-682-5652 or 915-603-6583 or email info@bearridgelogcabin.com.
Everyone has a budget, so we strive to give you the best value for your money by providing much more than the typical vacation property. One stay at Elk Hollow will bring you back to our 2 bedroom, 2 bath, fully, equipped cabin with spacious covered decks. Watch elk and deer graze beside and below the cabin at dawn and dusk. The stylish décor, with all the comforts of home along with Elk Hollow’s spectacular mountain views make this one of Cloudcroft’s best rental cabins. Feed the Koi and ducks at the pond, then walk across to a nice hiking trail in the Lincoln National Forest. In the winter, sled down the hill beside the cabin. Sleeps up to six. Be sure to check our Photo, Guest Comment,and Amenities Pages on our website.
Phone: 512-818-5849
Email: jerilynn@suddenlink.net
Website: www.elkhollowgetaway.com
If you plan to bring your dog or other pets please check before booking a rental. Don’t forget to bring a healthy all natural pet food as well. Blue Buffalo sells pet foods with all natural ingredients for both dogs and cats.
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Area Attractions
- Cloudcroft Museum and Pioneer Village
- New Mexico Rails to Trails Association
- White Sands National Monument
- White Sands Missile Range
- White Sands Missile Range Museum
- Flickinger Center for Performing Arts
- Spencer Theater for the Performing Arts
- Roswell Symphony Orchestra
- Apache Point Observatory
- Petroglyph National Monument
- Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument
- Carlsbad Caverns National Park
- International Balloon Fiesta
- Mountain Monthly Newspaper
- Doc45 Publishing
- Friends of Pat Garrett
- Pat Garrett Western Heritage Festival
- Pat Garrett Youtube Channel
Resources
- New Mexico State Site
- Office of the Governor of New Mexico
- New Mexico Department of Tourism
- New Mexico State Highway Department
- New Mexico Offline Map – App for Android
- New Mexico Traffic Safety Bureau
- New Mexico State Parks – A Complete List
- New Mexico´s Cultural Treasurers
- Office of Cultural Affairs – Historical & Cultural Sites
- Museum of New Mexico
- New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
- New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum
- New Mexico History Museum
- New Mexico Academy of Science
- New Mexico Pioneer Life Histories
- New Mexico State Library
- New Mexico State Wildlife Agency
- National Parks Service
- National Forests Service
- National Forests Wilderness Resources
- National Parks Conservation Association
- Bureau of Land Management
- Public Lands Information Center
- Forest Service – Southwestern Region
- US Fish and Wildlife Service
- New Mexico State University
- University of New Mexico
- Western New Mexico University
- Eastern New Mexico University
- Eastern New Mexico University – Roswell
- New Mexico Highlands University
- New Mexico Tech
New Mexico Universities
Letters
Scott Able Correspondence
We at Cloudcroft Online would like to thank the many people who have written us about the Scott Able Fire. Because of the volume of emails, we have not been able to answer each personally. Your emails provided us with valuable information about the fire which we passed on and encouragement that we were being helpful. A selection of the emails we received are given below.
Thanks again!
Date: Thu, 11 May 2000 22:30:58 -0600
I just wanted to sincerely thank whoever it is who is keeping us up to date on the situation. Please keep us posted with any new information.
We hope and pray that everyone is safe and things will be under control soon. My wife and I have a cabin in Young Canyon near Cloudcroft. Thanks again for your information.
Brad R. Baker
Date: Fri, 12 May 2000 01:15:20 -0500
Thank you. Thank you! Thank you!! for the updates on the fire. My husband was on his way from Texas to meet our son at our vacation home in Bonita Vista when we first heard about the fire. Our son had already been dropped off at the house and was without a car when the evacuation order came. A good neighbor stopped by and took him to Cloudcroft. Thanks to your updates, I have been reassured back here in Texas. I knew the location of the evacuation group by your site before we received the telephone call from our son! Great work…. Diane Bazar
Date: Fri, 12 May 2000 10:42:26 EDT
Please pass this along to the person(s) who had the idea and followed through to put the fire report on the web page. As a member of a family of long-time property owners in Wayland Canyon but resident of California, I am quite worried and anxious to hear any news we can get, not just about our property but our neighbors as well! I was so pleased to see the diligent work on the web site to provide such well down updates!
Thank you so much!
Heather (Herbert) Murrell
Date: Fri, 12 May 2000 07:58:30 -0600
Since the fire season is upon us in more ways than one, is there any effort on the part of the village to attempt to clean parts of the village up that has a considerable amount of dead wood and underbrush on it. Not only the private lots and unattended homes, but the right ways long the roads?
If volunteers are need I am willing to help since it obvious it is going to take more than the village staff to clean up the village.
Has there ever been a effort to put a ordinance on the village books to force investors and developers, land owners to keep their property clean and free of undergrowth and dead wood?
Thank you very much and your efforts are truly appreciated.
Larry Morgan
Date: Fri, 12 May 2000 11:11:47 -0500
Don,
Just a note to tell you how valuable your information is to me and my family. I am in Midland, Texas; my brother is at his home in Ponderosa Pines and I am feeding him reports based on what you post. I wish you could get more information, but being in the communications business myself I know how very difficult agencies can be sometimes.
Cloudcroft is a special place to my family and we are concerned for it during this fire.
I just wanted to tell you your information is reaching someone who can really use it. Hopefully you won’t have much more to report.
Jimmy
Date: Fri, 12 May 2000 11:04:28 -0500
I would like to give everyone working there kudos for the excellent work on the update. We have owned property in Cloudcroft for 15 years. It is located at mile marker 29 on the highway towards Mayhill. Yesterday I received a call from my father telling me that there was a fire nearby. Since I live in Houston, I needed to get more information on the status of the fire. We would hate to lose all our possessions at the home that I spent my childhood at. After searching the internet for about an hour, I came upon your website. It was a great feeling to get accurate information. Obviously, I would like to get more regular updates, but what you have presented is fantastic given the circumstances. A couple of suggestions if I may, it would be nice if you could update every hour on the hour even if all you can add is that there is no further information available. This would be helpful because it will place a time marker on the page and users won’t have to wonder if there might be problems loading up the website or problems with their web browser. Secondly, is there any way that a rough sketch on a map might be added indicating where the fire currently is and what direction it is heading? Even a hand drawn .bmp file would be greatly appreciated!
Once again……great work, great website (placed it in my favorites) and those of us far…far…away are tuned in!!!!
regards,
Alberto Lozano
Houston, Texas
Date: Fri, 12 May 2000 12:57:17 -0700
Sorry to send info to this address but I don’t see any other to send to. The buildings in the mouth of Wayland canyon have all burned but the one belonging to my family. This would be at least 7 homes, plus the homes behind those down in the canyon.
This is a very sad day.
Heather Murrell
Date: Fri, 12 May 2000 14:39:02 -0700 (PDT)
Thank you for dedicating your site to the Scott Able fire. It has been very difficult to get good, detailed information.
THANK YOU for your efforts!!!
Bethany Graves
Date: Fri, 12 May 2000 21:07:40 -0400
We appreciated your work to keep updating the news on the fire. Thanks for including the photos.
Robin and Ruth Rose, Las Cruces
(and cabin outside Cloudcroft)
Date: Fri, 12 May 2000 23:45:37 EDT
We just wanted to tell you “Thanks!” for keeping your website posted with the fire information. Although our vacation retreat near Cloud Country Estates is apparently safe from this conflagration, we still recognize how vulnerable we could be. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are suffering through this disaster, as well as with those making the effort to bring it under control.
Bill and Karen Burkett
Midland, Texas
Date: Sat, 13 May 2000 07:51:39 -0600
I would like to thank you and your staff on keeping us informed as to the situation in the Lincoln National Forest. You have provided an excellent service to all of us that have loved ones and property in the Lincoln National Forest.
Jose
Date: Sat, 13 May 2000 09:04:02 -0600
Hello,
We live in El Paso but own a cabin in Twin Forks area since last year. Our concerns were first with the welfare of the residents who live in the areas and for their safety. Your news updates allowed us to also keep watch on the locations of the fire to understand what we had to do should we need to move out our belongings in a hurry. By keeping a watch on your news line and calling the NFS we were able to have some comfort as to what to do.
Our prayers are with those who have suffered loss and inconvenience there from this unfortunate event.
Thank you very much for the service.
Sincerely,
Mark & Lisa Ellis
Date: Sat, 13 May 2000 11:57:04 -0500
Thanks for your continued coverage. We all are consulting your web page on a very regular basis throughout the day. Our neighbors have a home in Cloudcroft on 16 Springs Canyon Rd, right off 82. If the fire were to start up and move north, we think they would be in the path. They are anxiously watching your site for information as well. You’ve been a wonderful source! Thanks!!!! and double thanks! Diane Bazar
Date: Sat, 13 May 2000 14:52:14 EDT
I am an absentee (in military service) landowner in the Agua Chiquita Canyon. News reports I have been able to get about the Scott Able fire have been infrequent and contained sketchy or inaccurate information. Your site has been an excellent source of up to date news about the fire. I want you to know that I am grateful for your effort and hope this type of service will always be a part of your website during crisis.
Thanks,
Stan
Date: Sat, 13 May 2000 13:42:26 -0600
Don:
I would like to respond to your comments ref “Lack of Information/government “Run Around” from the Sheriff’s Office. I was working in Dispatch the Night the fire started, believe me it was a Zoo!! We could not reach the Forest Service Dispatch, and had to send a unit over to their facility to have them contact us. While doing this, and dispatching Local fire Depts, we were also Inundated with frantic 911, calls from people all over the Mountains asking for inf, and reporting at least 4 “Other Fires”. we had to try to verify and confirm if there was in fact other fires. to add to this, we were getting calls from the News Media, ( who also could not reach the Forest Service) bugging us for info. They inturn were broadcasting poor info to the public indicating that The whole Sacramento Mountains were being evacuated, that Cloudcroft was burning, ect…. Each time there was a “News Bulletin” our Phones were Jammed. I personally “Begged the News People calling to NOT put out that kind of INFO till we could get correct info. For at least the next 8 hours…. we were constantly Flooded with Calls from the Media, and the Public. ( 5:00 till 0100hrs)
In addition, we had to deal with the standard Thursday night Calls for service in the rest of the County, all the way to Chaparrel. We were able to deal with Cloudcroft Evacuation Center, keeping Mayor Dave & Mike Niveson briefed and updated on what little we knew. All this was being accomplished by 2 dispatchers! I realize it was frustrating for you not to be able to get Information, it was also the same for us. It is my understanding that the Forest Service Phone lines were “Down” and that was the reason for lack of communications. Please keep in mind the Forest Service is ultimately in charge in these situations. We did the best we could under the circumstances. As a Mountain Resident, I appreicate your Efforts in keeping folks informed.
Best Regards,
George Collins,
Otero County Sheriff’s Dispatch
Date: Sat, 13 May 2000 14:01:16 -0600
Want to let you know how much I appreciate your posted updates on the situation there. I am with the NM Conference of the United Methodist Church, coordinating communication among our churches/laity, and we have a Conference Camp at Sacramento (Sacramento Methodist Assembly), where fire threatened substantially night before last and during the day.
Without their panicky calls to us in the midst of firefighting, and your posted info, we would have been left in the dark. I have heard nothing from them since Friday noontime, and pray they have made it through this horrific experience. If you have any information pertaining to this Camp area, we would appreciate knowing- if that is possible.
Cheryl Hicks
Office of Church Development
Conference Office- NM Conference UMC
Albuquerque, NM
Date: Sat, 13 May 2000 15:14:20 -0500
Your up-to-the-minute updates of the fire situation are a tremendous help. When I feel there is nothing I can do here in Albuquerque, because of your tremendous effort, at least I can keep in touch. Of particular concern to me being a United Methodist is the situation at the Sacramento Methodist Assembly, the staff, the buildings, and the lovely forest.
Also, if anyone there knows Richard and Mary of Cloudcroft Methodist Church, please give them my email address:
xxx @spinn.net
Prayers for your strength to endure mother nature, and your care of those who need compassion.
PJ Flowers
Albuquerque, NM
Date: Sat, 13 May 2000 17:44:10 -0600
My wife, Louise and I live out of Cloudcroft about 10 miles in Cloud Country West. We have been frantically trying to get information on the fire. This morning I went in to talk to the folks at the Cloudcroft Fire Station and they recommended I try your web site. It was like a Godsend to finally get some information on what is going on. Thank you sincerely from the bottom of my heart. You folks are wonderful and we have signed up for your newsletter. Will try and support those who sponsor your web site.
Thanks again.
Craig Clark
Cloudcroft, NM
Date: Sat, 13 May 2000 17:47:50 -0600
Let me add my thanks to those who have already written. You have provided a service that goes beyond description. The news media has been focusing all of their coverage on the Los Alamos area but you have provided us with timely, factual reports that we cannot get any where else. We too, own a home in Cloudcroft, and are most concerned with the welfare and safety of our friends. Also, a big “THANK YOU” to the men and women who are putting it on the line to fight this fire. Our prayers and best wishes are with you. Please return safely. Property can be replaced…people can’t!!!
Best regards,
Bob and Cari Hemperley
El Paso
Date: Sat, 13 May 2000 18:23:01 -0400 (EDT)
I keep coming back repeatedly to your site to read the latest info on the Scott Able fire near Cloudcroft. We have almost completed the construction and finish-out on our retirement home at The Ranch in the Young Canyon area off US82 east of Cloudcroft. I was there until Tuesday of this week before returning to Garland, Texas. A good Cloudcroft neighbor told me by phone of the fire, and I quickly went to your site, and found your coverage. I will continue to check in for updates.
I hope when the fire is under control and interest wanes, that you will not just “discard” the materials you have assembled, but will find a corner of your site to keep them intact. I think that re-reading these materials from time to time will insure that we stay vigilant, and that we understand how a fire can spread, how difficult it can be to get one under control, and the disruption of lives and loss of property (even if there is no loss of life) that can be caused, as well as how difficult it can be to get timely and accurate information from the officials and the media. The links to other resources are also very valuable. Please save this stuff for us to access again.
One minor point concerning your links to “Wildlife Fire Operations Website” and “Current Wildlife Fire Information”: The word “Wildlife” should be “Wildland”.
Why don’t you also tell us something about the “anonymous reporter” who has been giving us this coverage? The TV networks show us the reporter and give his or her name. Who can we thank?
Good work!! Keep it up!
Preston Brashear
Date: Sat, 13 May 2000 22:35:11 -0600
We would like to thank all that helped. We have lived here for four years. I haven’t ever seen so much helping hands, in so many years. We are proud to be a part of Cloudcroft.
We would like thank all the firefighters and the people that risked their l lives for us. May god bless all of them.
Sincerely yours,
Jerry and Carol White
Date: Mon, 15 May 2000 10:14:45 -0600
Just discovered your page.
YOU ARE DOING A WONDERFUL JOB RE:FIRE.
Been spending hours with TV trying to get updates, mostly to no avail – then I discovered your site. Hope I don’t have to use it for fire info again, but look forward to receiving the newsletter. We, and guests, spend alot of time in Cloudcroft (and you can’t depend on the Alamo paper for any current info).
Keep up the good work, and thanks again.
Charles G. Farrant
Date: Mon, 15 May 2000 21:22:38 EDT
My husband, Dan Jones, and I own a cabin in Sullivan Canyon. Our good friend Janet Sanders kept us updated with the information available to her, but she also told me about your website. How grateful I am to her, as well as to all of you! What a comfort to log on and find such up-to-the-minute reports. I can’t imagine the toll this must have taken on your staff, so please know what an invaluable service you provided for so many of us who are geographically elsewhere, while our hearts and spirits are in Cloudcroft.
Best regards to everyone,
Suzanne Schmidt
Date: Mon, 15 May 2000 21:59:07 -0500
Just a short note to say thanks for keeping the general public updated on the status of the Scott Able fire. While many may not believe that this fire is as important as the Los Alamos fire – since I have yet to hear of any national new coverage. Your web site has been a portal of valuable information to me and my family (Dockray, Curtis, and Fulton families of Cox Canyon). While I’m unable to personally assist the victims of the fire, our prayers are with each of them.
Thanks again,
Tim Fulton
Nashville, Tennessee
Date: Mon, 15 May 2000 20:48:39 -0600
Thank you for your web site. We live on Miller Flats with 180 horses and we really need the information that you are giving, as no radio station or TV station are of help. Where we live we are just in the dark most of the time. Thanks so much. Keep it up.
Jennifer Gold.
Date: Tue, 16 May 2000 06:38:47 -0500
Thanks for your update information on the fire. Since our family owns a cabin in Hay Canyon, I check your web site several times a day for your courrent updates. This shows that the people of Cloudcroft care about the surrounding communities.
The lost of property is very sad, especially now since there was a plane crash, which resulted in two deaths. Since I can’t be there to give a helping hand, I know everybody is doing their best.
Darrell and Christy
Denton TX
Date: Tue, 16 May 2000 09:42:02 -0500
The Cloudcroft homesite has been extremely helpful to me this past week as I’ve tried to assess the danger to my cabin near Alto. Whoever has manned that station and has taken the time to give such good information about the fires deserves a medal for public service.
Thank you
Virginia Paget,
Austin, Texas.
Date: Tue, 16 May 2000 11:02:14 -0600
Can’t tell you how much we appreciate your keeping us updated on the fire situation. We live in El Paso but have a cabin in the Village. Have constantly been checking the site as we are not getting too much news coverage here. You are doing a great job!!
Thanks so much!!!!
Anne & Jim Spier
Date: Tue, 16 May 2000 13:04:44 -0500
Thanks for your continued excellent coverage. It must be wearing to maintain this momentum of coverage but it is putting all of our minds at ease. I changed my “home page” location to your site!
We log on at least once an hour to check for your updates. Our families are logging on from Florida, New York, Illinois, Colorado and Texas.
Many thanks…. Diane Bazar
Date: Tue, 16 May 2000 15:21:34 -0500
Have been reading the reports from others who are blessed by your updates and we’d like to add our names to those listed. We have had to leave our cabin in order to make a living, but our hearts are still in that area. We are so far away from home (Northern California) and your updates are keeping our minds at ease. Glad there is no distance in the spirit and we continue to pray for those who are fighting the fire and those who have lost so much.
You are doing a great job and we say “thank you” from the bottom of our hearts.
Paul and Mary Paxton
Date: Tue, 16 May 2000 16:44:48 -0500 (CDT)
I would like to thank you for the good work at getting the news of the forest fires on the web. My son lives at PONDERROSA PINES and had been helping fight the fires. It was a big relief to me to be able to keep up with the progress of the fires. Keep up the good work and thanks again.
NF
Sugarland, TX
HAVE A GREAT DAY
Date: Tue, 16 May 2000 17:24:22 EDT
We very much appreciate your efforts to keep us posted on the current fire situation. This is by far the best source of information available regarding the fires. We live in El Paso, have a second house in the Village, and have been coming to Cloudcroft for over 60 years. Keep up this important good work.
Many thanks,
Werner and Cheri Spier
Date: Tue, 16 May 2000 21:03:16 -0500
Dear Cloudcroft.com:
We greatly appreciate the information provided on this web-site. Like many others, my family owns two lots in Ponderosa Pines in Cox Canyon and are very concerned about the fire in the surrounding areas. From the information provided, we are assuming that area is okay at this point.
Our hearts and prayers go out to all those in the area, property owners, and people who are participating in all the volunteer efforts. Thank you for continuing to keep us abreast of the situation.
Our thanks!
Major & Shelley Hossenlopp-Ft. Hood, TX
Rich & Helen Mueller-Spring, TX
Date: Tue, 16 May 2000 19:11:36 EDT
My husband and I thank you for all the information you have been providing us. We live in Aledo, Texas (west of Fort Worth) and have a home in Timberon. We own Sacramento Energy and have a bulk plant at Sacramento Methodist Camp, so many of the people in the area are friends and customers. Larry Crawford works with us and has been fighting the fire from the beginning. If anyone knows the people that have lost homes or any of our customers read this, please call or e-mail us at sacenergy@aol.com. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone.
Thank you again for your hard work in gathering information for us.
Aubrey and Mitch Johnson
Date: Wed, 17 May 2000 12:38:45 -0600
We evacuated on the 10th. Our house is OK, but many friends have lost everything. Fire was extremely hot and firefighters basically had to evacuate also. Fire had free roam of town [Los Alamos], many homes burned down to foundation. It is amazing there are so many spared. We got to come back last night, forest around town is 100% burnt due to extreme heat of fire, our beautiful mountains are destroyed.
Hope Cloudcroft officials take forest thinning seriously! Most people around here believe that logging should be allowed again. Many areas that were control burned two years ago were no help in stopping fire. They needed to be thinned better.
Lee Anderson
Date: Thu, 18 May 2000 21:05:44 -0500
The information that you have been furnishing is great. We have a cabin in Timberon and were very concerned until we started watching your reports. From what we read, the fire started around the 4H camp but we were wondering if the camp sustained any damage. Some of the 4H’rs from Texas go to the camp occasionally. Thanks again for a GREAT JOB.
Larry Abbott
San Angelo, Texas
Date: Fri, 19 May 2000 10:37:47 -0500
My husband and I have owned property in Hay Canyon since 1967, and feel a very close tie to all the area around Cloudcroft, Weed, Sacramento and Mayhill. We have relied heavily on your website for up-to-date info on the Scott Able fire. We had to evacuate our cabin hastily on Thurs. night, May 11. We picked up Mike Bazar, who knew nothing about the fire, and with our friends who also own property in Hay Canyon, John and Kay Tork, made the trip to the Cloudcroft High School that night. The fire from the top of Prestridge Hill was very scary. We saw the same picture from there that you posted on your website. We just knew that our lovely canyon and cabin were gone forever!
When we arrived at the high school, we were greeted warmly by several Cloudcroft residents, along with some students from Colorado who pitched in to help. Later Linda Loper and her daughter came by and insisted that we spend the night in the Loper’s lovely home. What gracious hosts! Linda and Roger served us a delicious breakfast Fri. morning.
On Friday, we returned to Hay Canyon, not being stopped or questioned by anyone. Late that afternoon, we evacuated again, and decided to return to our homes in the Fort Worth area. Since then we have regularly visited your website, and also called the forest service number provided to us. We are so thankful that the fire is now contained! We will visit your website frequently from now on, just to get information about that area. THANKS TO ALL YOUR STAFF FOR THIS EXCELLENT SERVICE. GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!!
Marvin and Vern Myers
Date: Fri, 19 May 2000 10:39:55 -0600
I am a member of the NM National Guard that was deployed to the Cree & Scott Able fires. I was one of the first guard members sent to Cloudcroft on Thursday night, and stayed till the next Thursday when we were released. I just want the residents of the Cloudcroft, Mayhill & especially the folks along Miller Rd. to know how much your support and cooperation were appreciated. We couldn’t have done our job without you. I also want to thank you folks at this site for keeping my wife and family informed as my cell phone didn’t work at my check point on Miller Rd. AGAIN THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH.
SPC Jim Gorrell
C-1/200 ADA
Portales NM
Date: Fri, 19 May 2000 17:57:13 EDT
Great Job! We who have places in Cloudcroft and the surrounding area applaud your efforts in keeping us advised as to the status of the Scot-Able fire. It seemed that this fire did not get the publicity from the press as did others and your service was our only link to current information. While we are very pleased to hear of the fire containment and thank the firefighters for their hard work, our hearts and prayers go out to those that have suffered loss.
Tom and Fran Gregg,
San Angelo, Texas
Date: Sun, 21 May 2000 18:07:43 EDT
Just wanted to tell you that your hourly reports on the fire situation have been greatly appreciated by everyone who knew about cloudcroft.com. Here at Century 21 Casa, we were able to keep up with the news and we were also able to refer the many callers to our office to the web site. It has been a great service to the community to have access to this information in a timely manner. Great job, guys…it was above and beyond…
Rusty Russell
Date: Thu, 25 May 2000 15:32:59 -0500
Thank you for your news of the fire. We own property in Russia Canyon and your reports kept us informed the whole time. This service is invaluable to everyone in the Cloudcroft area and to those of us who visit often. Thank you again.
Guy and Nancy Watkins
Woodway,Texas
Date: Thu, 25 May 2000 19:35:32 -0500
Thank you so very much for posting the news on the Scott Able fire. I have recently under gone back surgery in Florida and cannot travel back to our home in Cloudcroft for another two months. We were very pleased to have access to the fire news though you web page. It helped much with the trauma for an operation and the fear of losing our home.
Gene and Vera Mangold
Date: Thu, 25 May 2000 21:00:45 -0500
We just want to tell you how much we depended on and appreciated your updates of the Scot Able fire in Weed. We have a cabin in Chippeway Park and were surprised by the lack of national news coverage of that fire; we just found out about it by accident! Your updates were absolutely priceless. It was frustrating to be ten hours away from our “home away from home” when the fire was so close. But thanks to your excellent coverage and updates, we were able to know what was happening! We enjoy the cloudcroft.com website and check it every single day.
Keep up the good work!!!
Larry & Emily Giles
Date: Fri, 26 May 2000 00:06:19 EDT
I would like to extend my thanks to everyone that helped out in fighting the Scott Able Fire keeping our homes and families safe. I am 6000 miles away working on a construction project in the Marshall Islands with my family still in Cloudcroft. It was quite a relief to find out that the fire had been brought under control. My sorrows go out to all that did suffer losses during this fire.
I would also like to say thank you to Cloudcroft.com for updating the web site as often as they did so that I could keep a close eye on what was happening being so far away from my loved ones.
GM
Date: Fri, 26 May 2000 14:17:52 EDT
I have read with pride the outpouring of gratitude from those who sought and FOUND data and news while Cloudcroft and Scott Able area experienced the fire and threat thereof. I would appreciate it if I too could add my profound thanks for the marvelous job Cloudcroft Online/Newsletter and others did to keep us outsiders informed as to the progress being made to save the remaining area. I recently retired from 50 years in the news business. I can attest to the fantastic job you all did in keeping us accurately informed at a time when “news” of the blaze were scarce. Thank you again from a “resident of #5” Buckhorn Cabins. Hi Gloria and Katherine.
See ya soon.
Bert N. Shipp
Date: Fri, 26 May 2000 14:34:11 EDT
From Lubbock Texas I wish to say what a fantastic job we thought you did considering the lousy help you received from the state which is par for the course. Is there anything I can do in the way of donation letters to Pete in Washington or what can I do to help you out the most. We SURE appreciated and noted the hard work it took to put out the newsletter. It did take much of the worry of our home in Timberon away and yes I did pass your address along to all us Texas flatlanders.
Paul
Houston
Date: Fri, 2 Jun 2000 04:39:56 -0600
I want to thank you for the fire coverage. I was really frustrated about lack of information early on, but then I found cloudcroft.com and the information was accurate and up to date. We were in the process of marketing a home in the evacuated area before the fire started but unlike many that lost everything, our place was spared, and has now been sold.
Thanks for the coverage, it really kept us informed.
Joe Hart
High Rolls, NM
Date: Sat, 03 Jun 2000 09:40:57 -0700
A huge THANK YOU for your coverage of the Scott Able fire. My brother (Steve Wimsatt) called and told me about the fire, and told me about your web site. I told everyone I talked to about this site, and many of us logged on daily. It was so great to be able to find out what was going on, especially since the coverage here in California focused only on the fire in Northern New Mexico.
I was born and raised in James Canyon, and a part of me will always think of Cloudcroft as “home”. Thank you again for your hard work and for making such an effort to keep us informed. I know that this has touched far more people than you will ever know about!
Sheila (Wimsatt) Carpenter
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Filed under | Comment (0)Dining
Located on Burro Street in Cloudcroft, the Western Restaurant has served locals and visitors for over 50 years. The Western Restaurant (remodeled in 1997) features a family atmosphere with a varied menu. We open early for breakfast with the best omelets in the State. Always the best service and the friendliest staff. In the bar, it’s Karaoke night on Friday’s, and locals and visitors mix in a true local atmosphere. Call 682-2445 for take-outs. Package store. For more information, contact carolh@pvtnetworks.net.
For elegant, romantic dining with breathtaking views of White Sands and New Mexico sunsets, try Rebecca’s. Named after our resident ghost, Rebecca’s serves three meals daily. Our award-winning chef prepares the finest continental cuisine to tantalize your palate. Or try Rebecca’s Lounge where the wooden bar from Al Capone’s estate completes an authentic speakeasy experience.
Stop by the Depot during your busy day for snacks, sandwiches, beer and wine coolers. Adjacent to The Lodge Golf Shop, the Depot is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It’s the perfect stop for busy golfers.
The best barbeque on the mountain served Texas Style. Nobody goes away hungry. Go through our cafeteria style chow line and find out why people have been coming back to the Texas Pit for over 20 years. We are on Hwy 82 in Cloudcroft.
Best BBQ and catfish on the Mountain. Located on Hwy 82, 4 miles west of Cloudcroft. Open for 8 years. We feature all you can eat catfish (please call for reservations) on Friday and Saturday 4 pm to 8:30 pm. No reservations needed for other hours: Thursday 11-7:30, Friday and Sat 11-4, and Sunday 11-7. Closed Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. (575) 682.4550.
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Cloudcroft Online!
Day9
Day 9 – May 19, 2000
May 19, 2000 — Cloudcroft.Com Special Report
9:00 am MDT — The Scott Able Fire is now 100% contained. Mop-up has started on all divisions, with priority on the wind-exposed green islands. All evacuations have been lifted and the New Mexico National Guard has been demobilized. We will post a synopsis of the Scott Able Fire this afternoon plus information on the town hall meeting held in Cloudcroft last night.
The weather forecast for today calls for southwest winds 10-15 mph, 60-70 degrees temperature, and 15-25% relative humidity.
The Ruidoso News has a report on the 14 volunteer fire fighters who walked out of a meeting with Ruidoso administrators yesterday.
6:00 pm MDT — The Forest Service has instituted closures on some areas of the Lincoln National Forest starting May 24, 2000. The Villages of Cloudcroft and Ruidoso will still be fully accessible to visitors.
Synopsis
7:00 pm MDT — The Scott Able Fire has been 100% contained, with mopping-up operations continuing. All evacuees have been allowed back into their properties. The National Guard has been immobilized. The fire began on May 11th at about 3:30 pm when a high power line blew down in high winds near Scott Able 4-H Camp. Because of those winds, it spread incredibly fast that first day. Forest Officials did not attempt to extinguish flames the first day, concentrating mainly on evacuating those people in the most immediate danger. Most of the homes lost in the blaze (64) were destroyed in the first hours of the fire. The perimeter established around the fire on the 2nd day held fast throughout the life of the fire, due mainly to the tenacious work of fire fighters using heavy equipment all the way down to picks and shovels. High winds kept slurry planes on the ground for much of the life of the fire.
High winds and low humidity tormented fire fighters every day of the fire, finally subsiding on Thursday the 19th to allow for a solid containment.
On May 15th, day 5 of the fire, the complexion of the situation changed completely when two men were killed in a spotter plane crash near the Alamogordo airport. Sam Tobias of Ruidoso and Leo Kopoman of Columbia, California died in the crash, which is still under investigation. Of the three major fires in New Mexico during this period (the Cree Fire near Ruidoso, the Los Alamos Fire, and the Scott Able Fire), these were the only two deaths associated with the blazes.
Tuesday the 16th was considered a turnaround day for the Scott Able Fire. Winds would not go away, and fire fighters were faced with the chore of not only containing the blaze within its perimeters, but accomplishing that task without the help of aerial slurry attacks. By the end of the day, as winds began to subside, man had won out over Mother Nature and the lines had been held.
May 17th was another windy day, but fire fighters had been encouraged by their successes under adverse conditions in days past and were able to maintain successful fire lines during another “Red Flag” day. They actually increased the amount of containment of the fire to 65%.
Thursday the 18th, a week since the fire had begun, dawned relatively calm and fire fighters took advantage of better weather conditions. They attacked the last vestiges of the fire and brought it to 100% containment.
Total losses — Two human lives (still no estimate available on wildlife casualties which will be hard to assess), 16,500 acres burned, 64 homes lost, 16 outbuildings, one bus, one boat, and 11 motorized vehicles.
Damage to utilities in the fire-stricken area has yet to be totaled but several utilities were compromised by the fire (most power has been reestablished to the burn area).
The National Forest Service reminds visitors and residents that the conditions causing the Scott Able Fire still exist. Another fire of similar volume is possible. Until moisture is introduced to the area, there is still the possibility of serious fire.
The Town Hall meeting in Cloudcroft Thursday night served to shed little new light on the problem of overgrown forest and serious fire conditions. The meeting had actually been scheduled before the Scott Able Fire began. Forest Officials admit to the problem, but insist there is a need for public help in influencing government officials to allow controlled cleanup of overgrown forest and underbrush and the cleanup of private lands outside the auspices of the National Forest.
Our thanks to each and every Cloudcroft.Com visitor that supported us and contributed to our efforts to cover this fire.
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Day 5 – May 15, 2000
May 15, 2000 — Cloudcroft.Com Special Report
9:00 am MDT — News sources are confirming that the fire was started by a downed power line in Scott Able Canyon, 15 miles south of Cloudcroft. The Forest Service is reporting that 64 residences, 16 outbuildings and 12 vehicles were lost, and that structures are still threatened on the North and East sides of the fire.
1:30 pm MDT — Evacuees are returning to their homes today, except for those in the Hay Canyon area. State Police, Otero County Sheriff’s Deputies and Cloudcroft P.D. are coordinating the efforts. A bus, a boat and 11 other vehicles are included in the count of vehicles and property lost.
The evacuation center has been moved from Cloudcroft to Mayhill. Officials are asking that everyone driving NM 130 and Highway 82 drive carefully as there are still many fire vehicles on the road. The fire remains 50% contained and no new acreage outside the perimeter has been affected.
2:15 pm MDT — The National Forest Service is reporting the possibility of a downed aircraft somewhere between the West edge of the Scott Able Fire and Alamogordo. More information as it becomes available.
2:30 pm MDT — If you would like to donate to an account to help people displaced by the Scott Able Fire, the address is:
Scott Able Fire Donation Account
First National Bank of Alamogordo,
Cloudcroft Branch
Box 168
Cloudcroft NM 88317-0168
We are still standing by for information on the report of a possible downed aircraft associated with the Scott Able Fire.
2:59 pm MDT — An aircraft has been confirmed down in the Alamo Canyon area near Alamogordo. There was reported to have been 3 aboard the plane. No survivors in the crash. No confirmation as to whether or not the aircraft was taking part in the fighting of the Scott Able Fire, but there are indications that that might be the case. The State Police report no fire associated with the crash. Cloudcroft.Com will provide more information when it becomes available.
3:30 pm MDT — The Cloudcroft Forest Service office reports the downed aircraft was likely a tanker involved in fighting the Scott Able Fire. The plane went down in an area of scrub and light vegetation, allowing little opportunity for a new fire to start up. Slurry has already been dropped on the site. The large amount of smoke associated with the crash and reported by the public is largely due to the fuel burning. The deaths of those aboard the aircraft are the first human casualties of the blaze that began near Cloudcroft Thursday afternoon.
4:10 pm MDT — The National Forest Service will issue a Red Flag Warning for tomorrow. A Red Flag Warning means the possibility of a fire expansion outside the perimeters. The warning was issued based upon weather reports that high winds and low humidity can be expected for tomorrow.
Cloudcroft has issued an ordinance prohibiting smoking anywhere that is not in a fully enclosed building. Violators could be fined as much as $500 and subject to up to 90 days in jail.
6:00 pm MDT — The Cree Fire (near Ruidoso) is considered 100% contained, meaning it is surrounded by either fire breaks or burned fuel. Complete snuffing of the blaze is hoped for by Tuesday or Wednesday.
A town hall meeting has been called for Cloudcroft area residents at 6 pm Thursday, May 18th in the Cloudcroft Red Brick Schoolhouse/Library. Topics of discussion will include the Scott Able Fire and related forest health issues.
6:20 pm MDT — 800 people involved in fighting the Scott Able Fire at this time. One injury (firefighter) and 2 deaths (plane crew) reported so far. The plane was reported to be a spotter plane leaving Alamogordo for fire site. It is said to have crashed near Alamogordo. Some increase in fire activity reported today, although no breaches of established fire lines were reported. As reported earlier, an increase in activity can be expected tomorrow if a forecasted increase in winds and a lower humidity comes about. Residents North of the blaze are advised that further evacuations are still possible.
Cost of fighting the Scott Able Fire so far (not counting the cost in lives and injury) $1, 570, 000. While the blaze is considered of human origin, it was accidental, due to a blown down high power electrical line near the Scott Able 4-H Camp Ground Thursday afternoon.
7:40 pm MDT — A synopsis of today’s battle against the Scott Able Fire:
In the early part of the day, fire fighters were both confident and cautious. They were confident enough to allow the return of residents to evacuated areas (all accept the Hay Canyon area, where residents were allowed to return under police supervision to retrieve valuables for an hour and then were asked to leave again). They were cautious by releasing information that tomorrow will be a “Red Flag” day, meaning high winds and low humidity are expected, precursors to the outbreak of fires away from the established perimeters.
People North of the established breaks are warned that new evacuations could be possible despite the fact that the line of defense has been built.
Fire inventory — 64 homes, 16 outbuildings, 1 bus, 1 boat, and 11 other vehicles. One injury and 2 deaths.
We greatly appreciate your emails. Thanks for your help and keep sending us any information you have.
8:55 pm MDT — The Ruidoso News has a report on the Forest Service plane crash and updated information on the Cree fire.
8:55 pm MDT — Linda Ground Sanders reports the following:
“Two members of my family traveled from Oklahoma this weekend to find that our family haven of nearly 30 years on Skyridge Mountain is no more. All of the cabins and the Church of Christ Camp on the mountain are gone. Our cabin was located near Wayland Canyon. Because of the message on your site we knew the chances of finding an untouched cabin were extremely slim. We will truly miss our paradise in the sky and our treks along “Happy Thought Avenue” (so named by my Dad who just passed away this last October).”
10:30 pm MDT — The National Weather Service Southwest Area Fire Report is available here.
11:30 pm MDT — You can now obtain the National Weather Service daily fire forecast for New Mexico by clicking the Fire Forecast link in the left column.
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Day 3 – May 13, 2000
May 13, 2000 — Cloudcroft.Com Special Report
7:25 am MDT — Officials are optimistic that they will be able to have total containment on the Scott Able Fire near Cloudcroft by Tuesday. They regard the blaze as 50 percent contained now. Loss of timber to the fire was set this morning at 20,717 acres. No new information on structural damage. No injuries reported. The Type 1 fire team will take control of operations this evening at 6 pm. Many of the members of the Type 1 team are already on-scene and participating in fire fighting efforts.
10:05 am MDT — As fire fighting officials are able to better assess the situation, they are now reporting that indeed several structures, including homes, have been lost in the Scott Able Fire.
At least 14 structures have burned. Today’s winds have picked up considerably over yesterday. The sudden appearance of low hanging clouds in the immediate Cloudcroft area made residents nervous this morning but Forest Service officials have assured us that a strong fire line has been established between the blaze and the Village. While the fire is considered 50% contained, officials still have residents in the Cox Canyon, Rio Penasco Canyon, and Timberon areas on standby alert should there be a flare up and a need for evacuation. Over 450 firefighters are working the blaze including 21 fire engines, 14 dozers, 7 air tankers, and a helicopter. The tankers and helicopter are reported grounded at this time due to wind conditions.
10:30 am MDT — Reliable sources report Governor Gary Johnson is to arrive in Cloudcroft around noon today to assess efforts and damage done by the Scott Able Fire. Winds are high again today hampering efforts, but the Forest Service maintains they still hold on to a 50% containment with a strong line of defense between the blaze and the Village of Cloudcroft itself.
12:20 pm MDT — Winds have subsided a bit in the Cloudcroft area allowing the tankers to take to the air again in the fight against the Scott Able Fire. No new reports of acreage burned.
News sources are reporting that 3 individuals have confessed to starting the Cree Fire (the Ruidoso area fire). A fourth suspect is reported to have left the state.
12:55 pm MDT — Here is some good information from FEMA on protecting buildings from fire and what to do to prepare for possible fire evacuation.
2:00 pm MDT — No change in the status of the Scott Able Fire since last report.
2:40 pm MDT — Forest Service press releases are available here. National Fire News is available here.
3:35 pm MDT — Fire direction has changed to Southwesterly and is revisiting areas that have already been burned. It is kicking up more smoke and the haze and smoke is visible in many areas that have been spared up to now. No new evacuations. Those evacuated to this point remain so and can seek shelter at Cloudcroft High School or Cloudcroft Church of Christ.
The National Guard remains on duty to prevent looting.
7:40 pm MDT — A special Cloudcroft.Com report. New forest restrictions. As of 8 am today, new fire restrictions have been imposed on Lincoln National Forest.
“No use of any open fires anywhere within the boundaries of the forest.
“No use of smoking materials anywhere outdoors.
These restrictions were actually planned before the fires near Ruidoso and Cloudcroft started.
Jose Martinez, Forest Supervisor for the Lincoln National Forest, has also stated that he is considering imposing specific area closures in parts of the Forest, but those closures are not in effect at this time. Martinez said closures of certain areas to public access could occur by June 1.
If a closure were to occur it would not be a shut down of the entire Forest, Martinez said. These closures would obviously be based upon the moisture levels in the next few days.
LATEST UPDATE ON THE SCOTT ABLE FIRE — No significant movement in the blaze during the day. Still considered 50% contained. Tanker planes have been effective. They will continue their drops until sundown. There has been an increase in the amount of smoke from the fire, making some residents nervous, but the Forest Service says this does not indicate an increase in movement or activity of the fire.
10:05 pm MDT — Background on the Scott Able Fire. It began mid-afternoon Thursday and was seriously out of control for the first 3 or 4 hours, but never actually threatened the Village of Cloudcroft. According to Forest Service officials, the fire was jumping several hundred yards at a time. Something most of the fighters had never had to deal with before. By good fate, weather cooperated on the second day (Friday) and fighters were able to get a handle on the fire. Today was windy early and caused new problems, but no fire lines were breached and with winds subsiding as the day progressed, new damage was minimal.
There has been no loss of human life. While any structural damage is a tragedy and beyond what is acceptable to a fire fighter, the damage has been held to a minimum. About 20 structures have been destroyed. Fire officials are still taking inventory of the damage.
Tomorrow, Cloudcroft.Com will attempt to gather information on the effect the fire has had on wildlife.
11:45 pm MDT — The Albuquerque Journal has a good article on the Scott Able Fire.
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