Five Points Vista

Five Points Vista is a quiet overlook in Lincoln National Forest southwest of Carlsbad. The view looks across the western edge of the Guadalupe Mountains over the open desert below. There is not much here besides the road, a few pullouts, and a very large view.

What to Do

The main thing to do is stop at one of the pullouts near the end of the road and walk to the rim. From there, you can see for miles, with the Guadalupe foothills dropping into the desert toward the Texas line. This is mostly a photography and sightseeing stop. There aren’t really trails, interpretive exhibits, restrooms, or water.

How Much Time to Spend

Plan on about 20 to 45 minutes, you can take in the view quickly. Five Points Vista makes more sense as part of a longer drive through the Guadalupe Ranger District than as a destination by itself.

Getting There

From Carlsbad, take NM-137 southwest toward Queen. Near Queen, turn onto Forest Road 540 and follow it roughly 3 miles toward the vista. The road becomes dirt before the end, fine if dry. There is little to no cell service and no facilities along the way, so bring water and make sure you have enough gas before leaving Carlsbad.

Five Points Vista is not worth a special trip on its own, but if you’re already exploring the Guadalupe Mountains, it is an easy detour for a big desert view!