Located in the Smokey Bear Ranger District of the Lincoln National Forest, the White Mountain Wilderness lies in the Sierra Blanca mountains of south central New Mexico, approximately 15 miles (24 km) north northwest of the town of Ruidoso.

Abrupt changes in elevation, escarpments, rock outcroppings, and avalanche chutes make for striking contrast and scenery.

July and August are the rainy months with frequent afternoon showers and high temperatures averaging 85 °F/29 °C.

[3] Water sources are not abundant, but do exist in the form of small streams or springs scattered throughout the area.

Wildlife commonly found in the Wilderness Area include mule deer, elk, black bear, turkey, porcupine, badger, bobcat, gray fox, coyote, skunk, spruce and rock squirrels, and numerous species of mice, moles, and birds.

The White Mountain area is also home to many types of birds and is a critical habitat for several species, including the northern three-toed woodpecker, Clark's nutcracker, red-breasted nuthatche, Townsend's solitaires, and golden-crowned kinglets.

[6] While there are no developed facilities within the Wilderness, the area is open to hiking, backpacking, horse-back riding, and primitive “Leave No Trace” camping.

Reaching 11,973 feet (3,649 m), Sierra Blanca is the southernmost mountain in the continental United States to rise above timberline.