Nogal: Mining History and Landscape

The Nogal Mining District surrounds the community of Nogal and covers the area between Nogal and Nogal Peak. Most of the district lies within the Lincoln National Forest. The place name is thus associated with a mining district that surrounds the community and includes the surrounding landscape.

Mining History and the Parsons Mine

In 1865, placer gold was discovered near Nogal, then called Dry Gulch. Three years later, Billy Gill found a quartz vein. This discovery helped lead to the founding of the community of Nogal and the Nogal Mining District. In addition to gold, silver, copper, and lead were mined in the district.

The Parsons Mine was significant as a mining and ore-processing site: it contributed to regional developments in frontier settlement and the economy. Its facilities can also provide insights into early mining technologies and the communities that grew up around mines. Of the 13 known types of ore extraction and processing sites in the district, the mine is considered the best-preserved example of both types of facility.

The Parsons Mine site, also known as Hopeful Lode, lies north of Forest Road 108 and contains four adits, an open pit, large waste-rock dumps, and two prospect shafts. Preserved features also include three boilers, numerous concrete foundations and metal pipes, an ore separator, a water-catchment basin, a metal safe, cyanide tailings, smaller relics, and scattered artifacts. All phases of ore extraction and processing are evident at the mining sites in the Nogal Mining District. Ore extraction and ore processing refer to different stages of work.

Bonito Pipeline and Nogal Lake

The Bonito Pipeline, also known as the EPSW Rwy Water Supply System, was laid by the El Paso and Southwestern Railway in 1908. When it was built, it was the longest railroad water pipeline in New Mexico. Nogal Lake lies three miles southeast of the community of Nogal and served as a nearby storage site for water from the pipeline. Both sites offer a glimpse into the area’s historic water infrastructure.

Scenery along the Nogal Canyon Trail

The Nogal Canyon Trail soon leads from scrubland to a large meadow bordered by Nogal Peak. From there, the trail offers expansive views across the slopes and panoramic vistas. While the mining sites represent ore extraction and processing, the trail’s changing scenery—from scrubland to meadow, with views across the slopes—shapes the landscape experience.

The Nogal Canyon Trailhead can be reached via FR108 from FR107, the Rio Bonito Road. A vehicle with high ground clearance may be necessary for the drive; four-wheel drive may be required. Check current road conditions before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Carrizozo, Alto, Ruidoso Downs, Capitan, Ruidoso

Go to the main travel overview: Lincoln.