All year: Downy Woodpecker, Jays (Steller’s, Canada,) Clark’s Nutcracker, Mountain Chickadee, Pygmy Nuthatch, Townsend’s Solitaire.

Summer: Violet-green Swallow, House Wren, Western Tanager.

When submitting eBird observations at Cimarron Canyon State Park, it is most helpful to start a new checklist for each hotspot within the state park. Use this general hotspot when you have a checklist that includes multiple locations or if no other hotspot or personal location is appropriate for your sightings.

From Cimarron, go west 16 miles on US-64 to the park entrance. Or from Eagle Nest, go east 3 miles on US-64 to the park.

In the 1930s, The Maxwell Land Grant and Railway Company, realizing their northeastern New Mexico property’s natural beauty, sought to sell the 33,116 acre Cimarron Canyon tract to the state or federal government for a game preserve.  In 1949, the New Mexico Fish and Game Department (NMGFD) purchased the tract, creating what was known initially as the Cimarron Canyon Wildlife Area. The name was changed later to honor Colin Neblett, a Santa Fe judge, sportsman, and conservationist who helped form the State Game and Fish Commission, which advises the NMGFD.  In 1979, the NMGFD entered into an agreement with the State Parks Division, allowing the development of Cimarron Canyon State Park, comprising less than 400 acres immediately adjacent to the Cimarron River. The Cimarron River flows through this narrow, forested canyon, located near Eagle Nest on the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway.

Cimarron Canyon State Park offers beautiful views, interesting geology, quiet camping, fly fishing, hiking, and equestrian trails. The wildlife viewing opportunities are amazing, as the park sits at the center of the Colin Neblett Wildlife Management Area.

Straddling an 8-mile stretch of the Cimarron River, this park includes beaver ponds, trout waters, and mountains covered in pine and fir. Cottonwoods line the river bank. The park offers four campgrounds and nearly 20 miles of riparian and mountain trails.

Colin Neblett Wildlife Management Area (WMA) lies east of the village of Eagle Nest and Eagle Nest Lake in Colfax County. This WMA straddles both the north and south sides of US-64. Total acreage is 3,116 acres.

The Colin Neblett was purchased in 1950-1951. The WMA provides hunting and fishing access and habitat for deer, elk, and other wildlife species. It is one of the largest properties owned by the Department. The Colin Neblett consists of tree-covered mountains bisected by the Cimarron River canyon.

Fees: Hunters and anglers must have appropriate licenses and permits to take part in these activities. Wildlife viewers, photographers, hikers, bicyclists, horseback riders, and skiers must have a valid permit or validation with them while in the backcountry of the Colin Neblett Wildlife Management Area. Individuals may also access this WMA with a valid Cimarron State Park entrance permit.