Beginners Guide

Tips for Blending In and Felling Like a Local on Your First Trip!

Just Getting Started

We are here to help.

The eight resorts of Ski New Mexico understand that every passionate snowsports enthusiast started as a beginner, and each of them is ready and excited to welcome first-timers of all ages. With ample friendly terrain, an abundance of amazing instructors, and amazingly friendly staff at each of the resorts, you are guaranteed to have a first experience that will spark a love of the slopes for years to come. If you are looking to get started, you are in the right place!

High Altitude

What is altitude sickness?

For some guests, the transition from lower elevations to the high country can lead to altitude sickness. It’s believed that this is the body’s response to lower levels of oxygen and changes in air pressure. Altitude sickness can occur within hours, or even after a couple of days in the mountains. Symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, or sleep disturbances.

Preventing altitude sickness

To avoid altitude sickness, exercise in moderation when first arriving in the high country. Eat foods high in carbohydrates such as grains, pasta, fruits, and vegetables, and avoid salty foods. Limit alcohol consumption.

Hydration helps

Hydration is important, even in winter. When you combine high altitude, wind, sun, and physical exertion, your body uses and loses lots of fluids. A good tip is to drink before you get thirsty. Try to drink plenty of water before skiing and snowboarding, drink small amounts while you’re on the slopes, and replenish once your day is done. Dehydration can lead to early fatigue and staying well hydrated will actually help to keep your body warmer and reduce the effects of altitude.

Pro tip: If your lodging offers a humidifier, use it!

New Mexico Sunshine

...is practically a year-round thing!

Remember to follow these

Sun Safe Tips

Apply generous amounts of SPF 30+ sunscreen on exposed skin (and ears) every two hours.
Wear goggles or sunglasses with 100 percent UV protection.
Wear pants, long sleeves, and gloves, even on warm days.
Don’t forget to apply SPF lip balm!

What to Wear

Use Layers!

You don’t want to be too hot or too cold. You want to be just right. And you want to be—and stay—dry. The key to warmth is making smart apparel choices and layering. On a sunny day, you may only need two layers: a turtleneck or long underwear layer and, over that, a waterproof, outer layer. Bringing a just-in-case middle layer—a fleece or wool sweater—will ensure you’re ready for any weather. You can always take off or add layers as the conditions on the mountain change. We suggest dressing in three layers: inside, middle, and outer.

Inner or Wicking Layer

Since the inner layer is worn next to your skin, it’s important to pick a material that pulls moisture away from your skin, a process called wicking. Quick-drying polyester jersey fabric offers great moisture management and breathability. Silk is also a good natural fabric that pulls away moisture from the skin. Warm thermal underlayers made of wool or a synthetic fabric will also set you up for success on the mountain.

Middle or Insulation Layer

For the middle layer, look for pullovers, turtlenecks, and vests that will keep you warm by trapping air between the fibers and insulating you. A great material for this is fleece. Puffy jackets or vests that can be added or removed will help to regulate your body temperature as conditions change.

Outer or Shell Layer

Your jacket and pants should guard against the elements and keep out the snow while allowing some breathability. When looking for a jacket, look for one that’s waterproof with a snow guard or is long enough to overlap your pants by a couple of inches. This will help prevent snow from getting into your pants or getting your layers wet.

Wear Appropriate Material

You should wear clothes that will keep you warm and dry. Pretty obvious, right? A nice sweatshirt and sweatpants might be a great choice for a chilly evening at a football game, but they’re the last thing you want to wear skiing or snowboarding. When cotton gets wet, it gets cold, and you’ll get miserable quickly. You’ll need a technical jacket and pants that shed water and snow and help keep body heat in. If you don’t have a ski jacket and pants, look for a rental shop at your resort. Most of them rent outdoor clothing along with other necessities.

Protect Your Hands, Feet, Eyes & Head!

One of the most important purchases you’ll make for skiing and snowboarding is your gloves or mittens. Hands are often the first thing to get cold, so invest in a good pair of gloves that will keep your hands warm for years.

A pair of tall, lightweight or medium-weight socks in a synthetic or wool blend work best. Don’t give in to the idea that multiple layers of socks are better—that will only restrict circulation and cause your feet to be colder rather than warmer.

Protect your eyes from dangerous UV rays. Sunglasses or goggles protect your eyes from the bright sunlight that reflects off the surface of the snow.

The most important piece of gear is a properly fitting helmet. A helmet helps protect your head during bumps and falls and also keeps you warm. Helmets can be rented from any rental shop and should be worn at all times when you’re skiing and snowboarding.

Do You Need Specialized Gear?

If you’re getting into skiing or snowboarding for the long haul, it’s well worth the investment to get the right gear. It’s just like any other sport: the right gear can make all the difference. If you’re just starting out, it might make sense to research where to rent the gear you need and make sure it’s something you want to invest in. Either way, the more comfortable you are, the more fun you’ll have on the slopes.

Tickets & Passes

There are several options for hitting the slopes: a season pass, ticket packs, or single-day tickets. Each option has its place, so here are some more information:

Season Passes

Season passes are often available for purchase months in advance of ski season actually starting. These go fast and sell out quickly depending on the ski area and type of pass. If you know you want to ski one area all season, a single-mountain season pass might be your best bet. Just get yours early before they sell out!

Four-packs

If you’re skiing or riding just a few days a season, a four-pack might be for you. It’s a set of 4 tickets at a single resort that works well for a family ski trip or if you’re just able to grab a few days on the mountain here or there. Just keep in mind that 4-packs tend to be available only early in the season, so grab them while you can!

Ticket and Lodging Packages

Many resorts have “stay and play” packages available early in the season. When you start thinking about a New Mexico ski or snowboard vacation, be sure to check out the options available from each resort when you book lift tickets and lodging together.

Single-Day Tickets

Single day tickets can be a great option when you need the most flexibility and options. Many ski areas use dynamic pricing, so on the busiest days of the season you’ll pay a premium for the flexibility of a single-day ticket. In some areas, single day tickets must be purchased online and in advance.

Bottom Line: Plan Ahead

If you have a favorite resort, follow them on social media so you’ll be in the know when they issue a flash sale on 4-packs, when their season pass sales close, and when they’re offering “stay and play” deals. Start planning as early in the season as you can so you have as many options as possible and can take advantage of early season pricing!

Rentals & Lessons

Renting Equipment

Every New Mexico resort provides a variety of rental packages for beginner skiers and snowboarders, making it easier for newcomers to hit the slopes. To ensure you get the right equipment tailored to your needs, it’s highly recommended to book your rental gear online in advance. This proactive approach not only guarantees availability but also allows you to select the best options for your skill level. Additionally, booking ahead can significantly streamline the process of picking up your gear, saving you time and allowing you to focus on enjoying your time on the mountain.

Lessons Are Always Worth It

If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, or if it’s been a few years since your last visit to a mountain, it’s a great idea to start with a lesson. You’ll gain confidence and the skills you need to be as safe as possible on the slopes. Lessons are available in lots of formats: private, small group, family lessons, and more. You can even take your skills to the next level with a guided tour with an expert skier. No matter what type of skier or rider you are, a lesson is a great way to advance your skills quickly and learn how to ski and ride as safely as possible.

Know Your Signs

Skiing and riding are a lot like driving a car or walking down the street: there are signs giving you helpful and potentially life-saving information throughout each Ski New Mexico resort. These signs tell you important details such as the difficulty level of the trails, boundary lines, and features. Let’s take a look at what some of these signs mean:

You’ll see signs like this at the top of each trail, and on all ski area maps. These signs are giving you critical information about the level of difficulty of each trail.

Use these trail markers to carefully plan your day on the mountain. Choose a trail that suits your skiing or riding ability. You are responsible for staying in control at all times. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects. If you’re just starting out on a new mountain, it’s a great idea to start with green trails and work your way up as you get more comfortable with the terrain.

Caution Signs

Terrain parks are indicated with orange ovals. If you’re using a terrain park, be sure to check out the features within the park before you fully send it down the course. Start small and work your way up.

You’ll also see other signs with information on how to ride the lifts safely, trail closures, ski area boundaries, and slow skiing and boarding zones. You must read and obey all signs, warnings and hazard markings. You are also required to keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.

Slow zones are high-traffic areas and are intended to slow skiers and snowboarders down when approaching a busy intersection or nearing lift-loading areas. You MUST slow down in these areas for your safety and the safety of those around you.

Read and follow all signs of the slopes and always be observant and aware of your surroundings so your visit to New Mexico is as safe and enjoyable as possible.