Upper Canyon began as a summer resort early in this century because of its natural coolness which provided an escape from the summer heat of West Texas and the lower valleys of New Mexico. Water flowing in the Rio Ruidoso and the upper canyon's higher elevation produce lower summer temperatures and make the Upper Canyon an attractive area for summer visitors.

History of the Canyon: In the 1920's and 1930's, cabins began to appear along the Rio Ruidoso in the Upper Canyon. It was very popular for families to come to their cabins in Upper Canyon and stay for the summer. In a time of less sophistication, desires for entertainment, the river and woods made summer a wonderful time for several generations of youngsters. These original settlements were on leased land along the banks of the Rio Ruidoso and the canyon walls which we now call Upper Canyon.

Commercial lodging establishments have grown up and served the Upper Canyon area over the years. While offering every modern convenience now, they still maintain much of the rustic feel characteristic of the Upper Canyon 's early days.