New Mexico, often called the Land of Enchantment, is more than just deserts and sunshine. For those in the know, it’s also a fantastic destination for skiing. Boasting a surprising number of ski resorts, New Mexico offers diverse terrain, stunning mountain vistas, and a unique cultural experience that sets it apart from other ski destinations in the US. Whether you’re a seasoned pro carving down challenging slopes or a beginner eager to learn on gentle runs, Skiing In New Mexico has something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the top ski resorts that make New Mexico a must-visit for your next winter adventure.
Taos Ski Valley: The King of New Mexico Skiing
When you talk about skiing in New Mexico, Taos Ski Valley invariably tops the list. As the state’s largest ski area, sprawling across 1,294 skiable acres, Taos has earned its reputation as a premier ski destination. Its history is as rich as its slopes. Over 60 years ago, Swiss ski pioneer Ernie Blake, captivated by the towering vertical he spotted from his Cessna 170, established Taos Ski Valley. The Blake family cultivated a unique atmosphere, blending local culture with traditional European hospitality. In 2013, a new chapter began when conservationist Louis Bacon acquired the resort and invested $300 million in improvements and expansions, further enhancing the Taos experience.
Taos Ski Valley is renowned for its challenging terrain, attracting advanced and expert skiers seeking thrills. However, don’t be intimidated! Every lift provides access to beginner and intermediate trails, ensuring that skiers of all levels can enjoy the mountain. For the truly adventurous, Taos offers some of the most varied and demanding terrain in the country, particularly in its hike-to ridge areas. The resort features 111 runs, thoughtfully divided to cater to different skill levels: 24% beginner, 25% intermediate, and 51% advanced. With 14 lifts, including a gondola and the iconic Kachina Peak lift that ascends to 12,450 feet, skiers have ample access to the impressive 3,274-foot vertical drop. Taos Ski Valley provides a world-class skiing experience steeped in history and natural beauty, making it a jewel of skiing in New Mexico.
Angel Fire Resort: Family-Friendly Fun in the Rockies
For a classic western ski resort experience with a focus on family fun, look no further than Angel Fire Resort. Emerging onto the ski scene in 1966, Angel Fire has grown from a small local destination into a thriving four-season resort. Perched at 8,600 feet above sea level, it offers stunning views, including vistas of Wheeler Peak, New Mexico’s highest point. The resort’s skiable elevation reaches 10,677 feet, providing excellent snow conditions throughout the season.
Angel Fire’s popularity among families stems from its balanced terrain, catering to all skill levels. A significant portion of the resort is dedicated to beginner and intermediate runs, making it an ideal place for families and those new to skiing in New Mexico. Advanced skiers will also find satisfying challenges to keep them engaged. With over 80 runs and a dedicated terrain park, there’s plenty of variety to explore. While it may not be the most visually striking resort in New Mexico, Angel Fire compensates with its welcoming atmosphere, family-oriented amenities, and affordable prices, making it a fantastic option for a memorable ski vacation.
Red River Ski & Summer Area: A Charming Throwback Ski Town
If you’re seeking a nostalgic, classic ski experience in a genuinely charming western town, Red River Ski & Summer Area is your destination. While it may require a bit of a drive, the journey is well worth it. Red River’s unique layout sees the ski mountain rising directly from the main street, seamlessly integrating the town and the slopes. You ski into town and back up again, creating a truly immersive and convenient ski-in, ski-out experience in the heart of skiing in New Mexico.
The skiing at Red River spans both sides of the mountain, offering 63 trails served by 7 lifts across 209 skiable acres. The vertical drop is a respectable 1,600 feet, with a base elevation of 8,750 feet and a top elevation of 10,350 feet. Red River benefits from an average annual snowfall of 214 inches, ensuring good snow conditions. The resort exudes a funky, fun vibe, and its loyal skiers are passionate about the area’s unique character and friendly atmosphere. Red River offers a more intimate and laid-back skiing in New Mexico experience, perfect for those wanting to escape the mega-resorts and embrace a genuine mountain town spirit.
Ski Apache: Southernmost Skiing in the US
For skiers in West Texas and beyond, Ski Apache is a true mecca. Located in south-central New Mexico, high above the resort town of Ruidoso, Ski Apache boasts a unique cultural setting. Owned and operated by the Mescalero Apache tribe, the resort is situated on tribal land, adding a distinct dimension to the skiing in New Mexico experience. The base elevation sits at a lofty 9,600 feet, climbing to a top elevation of 11,500 feet. The 750 skiable acres are accessed via a scenic, winding road – definitely not one for drowsy drivers!
Ski Apache holds the distinction of being the southernmost ski area in the United States, offering a longer ski season than many might expect at this latitude. The terrain is varied, featuring excellent bump runs, a spacious beginner area, and a sizable bowl for more adventurous skiers. Visiting Ski Apache provides not only great skiing in New Mexico but also an opportunity to experience the culture and hospitality of the Mescalero Apache tribe, making it a truly unique destination.
Ski Santa Fe: High Altitude Family Skiing
Prepare to reach new heights at Ski Santa Fe, which boasts one of the highest base elevations in the country at 10,350 feet, ascending to over 12,075 feet. With a vertical drop of 1,725 feet, Ski Santa Fe offers a fantastic high-altitude skiing in New Mexico experience. This family-owned and independent ski area has a rich history. The Abruzzo brothers took over the resort from their father, Ben, a celebrated balloonist known for the first transatlantic flight, who tragically passed away in a plane crash in 1985. His legacy is honored each fall at Albuquerque’s world-famous International Balloon Festival.
Located just 16 miles above the enchanting city of Santa Fe, a must-visit destination in New Mexico, Ski Santa Fe provides easy access to both cultural attractions and excellent skiing in New Mexico. The resort offers a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere and a variety of terrain suitable for different skill levels, making it a popular choice for those seeking a combination of skiing and cultural exploration.
More New Mexico Skiing Destinations to Explore
Beyond these major resorts, New Mexico offers even more options for skiing enthusiasts:
- Sandia Peak Ski Area: Towering over Albuquerque, Sandia Peak is easily accessible via its popular year-round tramway. Also owned by the Abruzzo brothers, Sandia Peak is a smaller resort with 25 miles of slopes, three chairlifts, and two surface lifts, offering affordable family-friendly skiing in New Mexico when snow conditions are favorable. Snowmaking capabilities are limited due to water scarcity, so checking conditions is recommended.
- Pajarito Mountain Ski Area: Nestled high above Los Alamos, Pajarito Mountain tops out at 10,450 feet with a 1,200-foot vertical drop. With 280 acres of skiable terrain, 40 trails, and ample tree skiing, Pajarito Mountain provides a more secluded and adventurous skiing in New Mexico experience, located about two hours from Albuquerque.
- Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort: Often claiming the state’s longest ski season, Sipapu is surrounded by the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Carson National Forest. Featuring more than 40 trails, five lifts, and three terrain parks, Sipapu offers a diverse skiing experience in New Mexico. Located in Vadito, it’s about 20 miles southeast of Taos and two hours north of Albuquerque.
- Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area: For those who prefer cross-country skiing, Enchanted Forest is a must-visit. Discover over 30km of groomed ski trails, 18km of snowshoe trails, and even 5km of trails for skiing with your dog! Located just 3 miles east of Red River on NM highway 38 in the Carson National Forest, it’s a haven for Nordic skiing in New Mexico.
Conclusion: Plan Your Ski Trip to Enchanting New Mexico
New Mexico offers a surprisingly diverse and rewarding skiing experience. From the challenging slopes of Taos Ski Valley to the family-friendly atmosphere of Angel Fire and the unique cultural experiences at Ski Apache, there’s a New Mexico ski resort to match every preference and skill level. So, pack your skis, embrace the Land of Enchantment, and discover the magic of skiing in New Mexico!
