Carrizozo, town in and county seat of Lincoln County, New Mexico, United States
Carrizozo is a small town in Lincoln County, New Mexico, located on flat terrain covered in short grasses and desert shrubs. The town sits at the intersection of U.S. Routes 54 and 380 and has a small airport for regional travel, making it accessible from different parts of the state.
The town was founded in 1899 when the El Paso and Northeastern Railway came through the area, bringing workers and settlers to the region. In 1909, Carrizozo became the county seat of Lincoln County, establishing its role as the local government center.
The name Carrizozo comes from the Corrizo flats, named after the short grasses and desert shrubs that cover the land. Today, visitors walk the historic streets and explore early 20th-century buildings that reflect the town's roots and the slow pace of life that defines the community.
Visitors should prepare for a semi-arid climate with hot summers reaching the 30s Celsius and cool winters with occasional snow, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for exploring. The open landscape offers good visibility for viewing nearby mountains and the dark lava flow to the west, which can be accessed through the Valley of Fires area.
Local cider produced in the town has gained recognition in recent years, bringing renewed attention to the area. The historic streets and countryside have also served as filming locations for movies like 'The Book of Eli' and 'Gambit', attracting visitors interested in movie history.
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