Alto, New Mexico facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alto, New Mexico
|
|
|---|---|
Spencer Theater near Alto, May 2009
|
|
 Alto, New Mexico
Location in New Mexico
Alto, New Mexico
Location in the United States
|
|
| Country | United States |
| State | New Mexico |
| County | Lincoln |
| Time zone | UTC-7 (Mountain (MST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-6 (MDT) |
| ZIP code |
88312
|
| Area code(s) | 575 |
| GNIS feature ID | 903117 |
Alto is a small community in Lincoln County, New Mexico, USA. It's not a city or town with its own local government, but rather an "unincorporated community."
History
In June 2024, a big event happened in Alto. Two large wildfires, called the South Fork Fire and Salt Fire, spread quickly. Because of this, everyone living in Alto had to leave their homes for safety. They could only return once the fires were under control.
About Alto
Alto is located high up in the mountains. It sits at about 7,550 feet (2,300 meters) above sea level. This community is inside the beautiful Lincoln National Forest. It is also about 5 miles (8 km) north of the village of Ruidoso. The name "Alto" comes from a Spanish word meaning "high," which makes sense given its elevation!
Alto Lakes Community
Alto Lakes is a special neighborhood within Alto. It's a planned community built for homes and fun activities. It covers more than 1,689 acres across two mountain ridges. This community started in 1967 thanks to Don Blaugrund.
The main part of Alto Lakes is the Alto Lakes Golf & Country Club. This club has two private 18-hole golf courses. It also offers dining, swimming, and tennis for its members. If you own a home, townhome, or lot in Alto Lakes, you automatically become a member of the club.
There are over 1,150 homes and 83 townhomes in the community. There are also about 1,000 empty lots ready for building. The Alto Lakes Water & Sanitation District helps manage the water and sewer services. The Alto Lakes Special Zoning District and community rules also help keep the area organized.
Getting Around
Airports
- The Sierra Blanca Regional Airport is located about 7 miles (11 km) west of Alto. This airport helps people travel to and from the area.
Main Roads
New Mexico State Road 48
New Mexico State Road 220
Famous People
- Elizabeth Garrett (songwriter) - She was born in Alto.
