Sugarite Canyon (pronounced “shug-ur-eet”) is located east of Raton Pass in a sparsely-populated region of lofty, steep-sided, flat-topped mesas; cone-shaped volcanoes; and old lava flows.

Wildlife species in the park include mule deer, black bear, mountain lion, turkeys, and elk.

Abundant butterflies, wildflowers, and views down the Sugarite Valley to the Great Plains far below are highlights of the park.

Precipitation averages 24 inches (61 cm) per year with July and August the wettest months and December and January the driest.

Most summer rain comes in afternoon thunderstorms and most winter precipitation is in the form of snow, which can be heavy, especially at higher elevations.

A visitor center is near the park entrance station and an interpretive trail follows and crosses Sugarite Creek through the ruins of the once thriving town and coal mine.

41 developed sites in Lake Alice and Soda Pocket Campground offer tent camping.

Several trails beginning at the visitor center lead to ruins of the coal camp and follow the stream in the valley.

The public road leads north from Lake Maloya and terminates shortly in a small parking lot.

A .5-mile (0.80 km) trail leads to 10-acre (4.0 ha) Lake Dorothey, which offers trout fishing and is situated in a meadow at an elevation of 7,600 feet (2,300 m).

Beyond, an unmarked trail leads 4 miles (6.4 km) to the summit of Fisher's Peak Mesa in James M. John SWA.

The wildlife areas offer hunting for elk, deer, bear, mountain lion, turkey, and small game.