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One of a Kind Winter Escape

New Mexico’s ski experience is like no other. The combination of world-class mountains and alluring, unique, down-home atmosphere found in the Land of Enchantment is unmatched. And getting here is probably easier than you think.

There’s a reason New Mexico’s nickname is the “Land of Enchantment.” No matter the season, it offers some of the most stunning land and skyscape in the world.

Like any great vacation, your winter getaway starts by planning the trip. Excitement builds as you page through this website, and make your lodging reservations. Then, the anticipation really builds with getting to your vacation destination.

The dry climate means the
slopes are plenty snowy, but our
roads are nearly always clear.

In a world of travel frustration, Albuquerque International Sunport is an oasis of calm in a sea of crisis. Step off the plane into the tile-and-adobe terminal and you may think you’ve landed in an art museum instead of an airport. By car, you’ll notice a lack of bumper-to-bumper traffic throughout the state. Why go skiing if it’s like commuting to work? The state is at the crossroads of two major interstates, making it easy to get to, but the roads aren’t crowded. The dry climate means the slopes are plenty snowy, but our roads are nearly always clear. Traveling to the slopes becomes a chance to see the outrageously beautiful scenery—which changes from red canyons to piñon-covered hills to snowcapped peaks. No place else has such a diverse landscape.

Once at the mountain, you’ll notice the restful pace continues. Fabulous snow does not have to mean less-than-fabulous people. And the snow is fabulous. Lying at the southern end of the Rocky Mountains means plenty of shredder-deluxe dry powder dumps each season, perfect for everyone from absolute beginners to master carvers. Not to mention over 300 days of sunshine a year, with views often extending hundreds of miles.

If your focus is a fun and challenging family winter adventure, not the next fashion trend, New Mexico’s world-class conditions, affordabilty and accessibility are the perfect choice. Here, it’s not about “being seen,” but about the chance to hit over 400 trails throughout the state while taking in New Mexico’s quiet beauty. And because the crowds don’t resemble those at the Macy’s After- Thanksgiving sale, you get to hit trails again, and again, and again. All this at lift prices that don’t require the services of a loan officer.

Less money spent at the lift means more opportunities to spend time exploring the cultural scene. Still-active Native American pueblos dot the state, while Anasazi Indian sites inspire professional archaeologists and casual sightseers alike. Villages throughout northern New Mexico are home to direct descendants of 16th century Spanish explorers. You can see the artistic influence of these cultures in much of the world-famous art found in galleries throughout the state.

If your love of skiing leaves no time for a visit to our fascinating cultural haunts, you can still live the true New Mexico through our food. Sample New Mexico’s famous green chile, available on everything from enchiladas to burgers. We’re obsessed. But New Mexican food is more than just chiles and chimichangas. The state is home to many world class chefs who take simple peasant dishes and add a sophisticated touch. Subtle and filling without pretension, ending a full day of uninterrupted slope busting with a New Mexican meal is satisfaction itself.

So, if you want to get away from high-prices, crowds and the run-of-the-mill, run to New Mexico. Better yet, bring your skis, boards and families.

Follow us on Twitter @SkiNewMexico or visit us online at www.newmexico.org.

Ski Apache

New Mexico