Eagle Nest Lake State Park, State park in Colfax County, New Mexico
Eagle Nest Lake State Park is a New Mexico state park in the Moreno Valley, surrounding a large reservoir at an elevation of about 8,200 feet (2,500 m). The park has developed campgrounds, picnic areas, and boat ramps along the water.
The dam that created the lake was finished in 1918, built largely by Taos Pueblo workers, and ranks among the largest privately constructed dams in the country. After the valley flooded, the area gradually became a destination for fishing and outdoor recreation.
The lake draws people from the region for seasonal celebrations and gatherings that mark the year's rhythm. These occasions bring together locals and visitors around the water and mountains.
The park sits at high elevation, so visitors should allow time to adjust before doing anything physically demanding. Anyone bringing a boat should check the local rules on distance from anglers and general water safety before heading out.
In winter, when the surface freezes over, anglers drill holes through the ice to fish for rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon. The lake is also one of the few places in New Mexico where kokanee salmon, a landlocked species, can be caught at all.
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