Ski New Mexico

Skiing and Snowboarding in the Land of Enchantment

Archives for December 2014

8 Tips To Get The Most From Your Skiing Lessons

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Quality ski instruction is something every skier or snowboarder on the mountain can benefit from. Whether you’re just getting started or a seasoned skier or boarder, there’s always a new skill to learn or a technique to polish that will help boost your safety and fun on the slopes.

Robin May, Director of the Ski & Snowboard School at Angel Fire Resort, offers some important ways to make sure you’re getting the best quality instruction for your money.

1. Learn From A Pro

Taking a lesson with a certified school will fast track your experience in a safe, fun, and successful way.  Whether you’re learning in a group or private setting, having an experienced facilitator is imperative. Going out with well-intentioned, but unskilled friends, parents, or acquaintances can yield disastrous results — for the new participant and those around them.

2. Credentials Really Do Matter

It starts with certification. The best instructors are always the best learners. They spend countless hours in clinics, continuing education, and have committed to professional development through the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) or American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI). They may also have credentials that denote specialties like children’s, freestyle, or senior instruction or specific disciplines such as cross country, telemark, and adaptive.

3. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Around

It’s important to find out who the most requested or master teacher is at a particular resort. You typically won’t get this answer from the ski school desk as all instructors are essentially independent contractors that are compensated based on requests and return students. Ask locals, bartenders, or just someone on the chair. An instructor with a good reputation is easily found and really makes a difference.

4. There Is No Finish Line To Learning

Even if you’ve been skiing or snowboarding a few times before, there’s always something new you can learn that will boost your skill, confidence, safety, and enjoyment on the mountain. The best pros in the world and all the instructors you ski with are constantly learning by taking clinics and seminars. Learning how to ski more challenging terrain, tactics for varying snow conditions, or learning what playing in a terrain park is all about can really enhance your experience. Skiing and riding are sports where only you keep the score. The best way to a breakthrough in technique or challenge is by finding the instructor who knows you the best.

5. It’s About Skills, Not Colors

A lot of newcomers and parents of newcomers get caught up in tackling challenging terrain too soon. If slowly going down a steep blue/black in a Death Wedge, with bracing and defensive behaviors is what you consider skiing — it isn’t. Comfortable, athletic, skidded or carved turns that flow effortlessly down the mountain with shaping and speed control is the kind of behavior you or your children want to adopt — whether on a green, blue run; in a wedge or open parallel stance. Take your time and enjoy the process.

6. Enjoy The Group Dynamic

There is a current trend in the industry for smaller group lessons and hybrid private lessons or guaranteed small groups are becoming the norm. However, they do come at a higher price. For the average person, a group lesson is the way to go. Meeting people, developing a group dynamic, and sharing your accomplishments is fun and rewarding! With a well-qualified instructor, classes of even 8-9 can be effective and a great value. Later, if you have more specific needs, special circumstances or just want more exclusivity or the ability to get the undivided attention of your favorite instructor, a private or small group lesson is a wonderful way to go.

7. Take Advantage Of Local Access

The best value available is in local multi-day programs and race teams. Typically, the best Instructors are leading these and you usually keep your instructor through the season. Having the same Instructor working a season-long lesson plan with long term goals produces amazing results!

8. Always Tip

One last thing to remember. Your instructor only makes a small portion of the cost of a lesson. Like any other service, if you think you received a great lesson, don’t forget that a gratuity is always in order. They are not automatic, not required, but are greatly appreciated. Like a food server or a hairstylist, a 10-20 percent gratuity is the norm.

 

 

New Mexico Tastes Of The Holidays

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The holiday season in New Mexico is a distinct experience that leaves a lasting impact on the five senses. Months later you can close your eyes and still see the glowing luminarias, smell the piñon wood, feel the crisp winter air, hear the carolers, and, above all, taste the unforgettable flavors of the region.
The holidays in the Land of Enchantment are a time to honor traditions with special foods. For centuries, New Mexicans have enjoyed a few unique delicacies that have become synonymous with the season — biscochitos, posole, empanadas, and tamales.

Biscochitos (bis-co-CHEE-tos)

These spicy, anise-flavored cookies are rich, crisp, and very easy to make. Biscochitos are the holiday cookie staple in New Mexico and were declared the Official State Cookie by the New Mexico Legislature in 1989. Biscochitos were first introduced by Spanish settlers who brought the old world recipe to Mexico and later north to Santa Fe and other New Mexican settlements.

Posole (poh-SO-lee)

Posole or Pozole is a spicy corn stew traditionally made with pork. New Mexicans have been enjoying posole for centuries as a ceremonial dish for celebrating life’s blessings. Traditional posole is made with large kernel white corn that has been soaked in a solution of lime and then is dehydrated. Hominy is often used as a substitution for true posole.

Empanadas (em-pah-NAH-thahs)

The word empanada comes from the Spanish verb empanar, meaning to wrap or coat in bread. These delicious little pastries are made by wrapping a round dough pastry in half over a filling (meat, seafood, vegetable, or fruits), making a semicircle that is then baked or fried. Empanadas are a delicious holiday tradition in many New Mexican homes.

Tamales (tah-MAH-less)

Nothing says holidays to many New Mexicans like a warm tamale. Unwrapping the tamale is like unwrapping a little present. Tamales consist of a cornmeal dough made from hominy (called masa) and are usually filled with sweet or savory filling, wrapped in corn husks and steamed until firm. Tamales were one of the staples found by the Spanish when they first arrived in Mexico. Because preparing tamales is very time intensive, they are often made in large batches for special occasions with many people in a family or community participating in the tradition. Pork and red chile tamales are some of the most common in the Southwest and can be found in restaurants, cafes, and even in coolers toted by strolling vendors.
Wherever your New Mexico winter sports activities take you this season, make time to enjoy the delicious tastes of the holidays. You’ll find unforgettable flavors offered at or around every ski area in the Land of Enchantment. Whether you’re indulging in an old favorite or trying a taste of something new, the flavors of New Mexico will stay with you long after your vacation ends.

Explore The New Beer Frontier!

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There’s been an explosion in the state of New Mexico.

No, not like our famous atomic blast at the Trinity Site in White Sands. This has been one of a more hoppy, sudsy, crowd-pleasing variety.

Over the past decade, the craft beer scene in the Land of Enchantment has blown up, becoming one of the hottest beer-producing regions in America with nearly three dozen established microbreweries and brew pubs dotting scenic byways and Main Streets across the state. With a cadre of gifted brewers churning out amazing, award-winning beers, distinct flavors, and barrel-aged brilliance, craft beer aficionados have plenty of brewing territory to explore.

While the total number of breweries remains small compared to more established states, New Mexico’s tight-knit group of brewmasters have earned a reputation for their innovative, distinct creations, making the Land of Enchantment the new “Beer Frontier.”

Examples range from the gold-medal IPAs at La Cumbre Brewery in Albuquerque to the IPAs and cactus stout offered by Santa Fe Brewing Co., the lager made with house-roasted green chilies at Roosevelt Brewing Co. in Portales and the native-hops-infused brews crafted by the monks at the Christ in the Desert Monastery in northern New Mexico.

After a long day on the slopes, winter sports enthusiasts throughout the state don’t have to go far to enjoy a tasty local brew. Every ski area is proud to carry New Mexico craft beer and the New Mexico’s Ale Trail website offers a downloadable map and information about every microbrewery in the state so visitors can find the perfect spot for them and even their families.

Meanwhile, many of the state’s ski resorts boast entertaining, beer-centric events that cater to both the serious connoisseur and the casual taster. Check out some of the upcoming “BrewSki” events below!

 

Sipapu

 

Santa Fe Brewing Happy Hops Hunt

Santa Fe Brewing sends you on a mountain-wide scavenger hunt in search of SFB cans stuffed with prizes. Redeem your prizes at the base area. And while you’re here, FREE telemark clinics and personal instruction are available all day as part of our annual Telemark Festival sponsored by Black Diamond Equipment. And don’t miss Freeheel Fray, the skin-up, ski-down race after the lifts close. Plus, Santa Fe Brewing will be at the finish line with beer specials all evening.

Date & Time:  January 17 & February 14 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Cost:  FREE

 

Taos Ski Valley

 

The 19th Annual Brew Master’s Festival

Come enjoy an afternoon sampling beer from around the region and local food as Taos Ski Valley presents the 19th Annual Brew Master’s Festival on Saturday, December 20, 2014 from 4:30-7pm. The event will be held in Tenderfoot Katie’s and the Martini Tree, located at the base of Chair 1. The Brew Master’s Festival is a 21 and over event, no infants or children.

Date & Time:  December 20 | 4:30 – 7 p.m.

Cost:  Admission is $25, includes souvenir sampling glass, food and fun! Tickets may be bought at the door the day of the event.

Spring Beer Festival

Bring your friends and sample beers from across the Southwest and sample food from some of Taos’ best restaurants. Located in Tenderfoot Katie’s Cafeteria and the Martini Tree Bar from 4:30 to 7 p.m., this is a 21 and over event, no infants or children.

Date & Time:  March 7 | 4:30 – 7 p.m.

Cost:  $25 entry fee.

 

Santa Fe

 

WinterBrew

New Mexico Brewers Guild celebrates a new year for craft beer at the 4th Annual WinterBrew. Join 16 local breweries and a half dozen food vendors for a cozy winter evening inside the Santa Fe Farmers Market hall. Tickets for WinterBrew 2014 sold out one week before the event, so grab them early.

https://nmbeer.org/events/

Date & Time:  January 23 | 4-9 p.m.

Cost:  $25

 

Albuquerque

 

Bike & Brew Bike Tour

Take a VIP Tour of Albuquerque’s Best Microbreweries. Join Routes Bicycle Rentals & Tours for a unique bicycle experience that combines the spectacular scenery of Albuquerque’s bike paths with professionally guided beer sampling, local culture, and VIP back-room brewery tours.

https://www.visitalbuquerque.org/abq365/events/detail/Bike-Brew-Bike-Tour/23513/

Date & Time:  December 21 & January 18 | 1 p.m.

Cost:  $60 with Bike Rental; $50 BYO(B)ike

The Christmas Lights of New Mexico

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Nothing says Christmas time in the Land of Enchantment quite like the soft glow of luminarias or farolitos in towns and cities throughout the state. On a clear, brisk winter night, particularly in ski country, these traditional New Mexican holiday lights turn any evening stroll into something magical.

What exactly is a luminaria though and what’s the difference between that and a farolito?

Like many of the unique traditions of New Mexico, this practice dates back more than 300 years to the Spanish settlers of the region who wanted to create light during this holy season to illuminate the path of the Christ child. The word luminaria originally referred only to the small vigil fires that were created from local piñon pine during this time of year, while farolito was used to describe small paper lanterns.

Today, however, throughout most of New Mexico, the words luminaria and farolito are used interchangeably. Both refer to the simple lanterns traditionally made from a paper bag (think sack lunch size) containing a votive candle resting on a few scoops of sand. Electronic models featuring illuminated plastic sacks are also widely available now for those looking for a little more convenience.

Individually, these little lanterns are somewhat unimpressive. Collectively though, the sight of hundreds lining pathways, doorsteps, rooftops, archways, and lawns, combined with the scent of burning firewood wafting through the air — it’s an unforgettable snapshot for the senses.

Fortunately, there are several locations throughout the state that feature stunning examples of this distinct New Mexico holiday tradition for the whole family to enjoy. Here are just a few:

  • Albuquerque’s Luminaria Tour features hundreds of people strolling or taking guided tours through the city’s impressive Old Town and Country Club neighborhood displays.
  • Santa Fe’s famous Farolito Walk on Canyon Road is a free event that features carolers and no shortage of holiday spirit as you stroll the historic route.
  • At Red River’s Christmas Luminaria Tour you can ski or snowshoe through the Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area past the soft glowing lights while enjoying complimentary chile con queso, green chile stew, posole, desserts, and hot drinks.

Elsewhere, several other New Mexico ski resorts — Angel Fire Resort, Ski Apache, and Taos Ski Valley — host torchlight parades on Christmas Eve and fireworks on New Year’s Eve. At Valles Caldera, there’s New Year’s Eve cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the evening, followed by fireworks.

Whatever you choose to do while visiting New Mexico during the holiday season, you won’t have to go far to soak in one of the state’s most memorable and picturesque traditions. For more holiday light events visit New Mexico True.

The Art of Snowmaking

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With its cold, dry climate, New Mexico is home to some of the best natural snow in America. But when Mother Nature needs a helping hand, skiers and snowboarders throughout the Land of Enchantment benefit from the state’s modern snowmaking systems which provide much of the idyllic trail surfaces they enjoy throughout the day.

Snowmaking dates back to the early 1950s with the invention of the first snow cannon and gained widespread popularity at resorts throughout America in the 1970s. Today, it allows winter sports enthusiasts to hit their favorite slopes earlier and for more months of the year.

The artificial snow not only creates a base for early season skiing, but also provides an excellent foundation that allows natural snowfall to stick sooner. As springtime approaches, the more dense man-made snow is better able to endure through the freeze-thaw cycle the warmer days and cold nights create, extending the season beyond what would normally be possible.

In New Mexico, every ski area has state-of-the-art snowmaking capabilities with highly pressurized snow guns (or fans) that send tiny water droplets high into the air where it freezes and falls as snow. The process is far from point-and-shoot though. Skilled snowmakers carefully manage climate, topographical, and technological details, working around the clock to ensure the best possible production.

Ben Abruzzo, the Mountain Manager at Ski Santa Fe, said snowmakers must continuously monitor conditions and adjust technique to create the best snow possible.

“We are constantly adjusting the direction and flow of our guns to get the best snow possible,” Abruzzo said. “We can cover 50 percent of our mountain with artificial snow and our snowmakers work through the night, each and every night to create the best possible surface.”

At Red River Ski Area, Snowmaking Manager Doug Lane can cover 85% of the trails with man-made snow. An international snowmaking expert who works in New Zealand during the summer (southern hemisphere winter), Lane said New Mexico has ideal conditions for creating artificial snow.

“We’re looking for a wet bulb temperature of 28 degrees and below, which factors in the ambient temperature and the humidity,” Lane said. “The colder and dryer it is, the more snow you can create, which makes the Southwest one of the best places in the world for this.”

After the snow is created, there’s still work to be done as crews use snowcats to create a consistent, groomed surface. Finally, tillers are used to pack down the new snow and craft that perfect corduroy surface every skier and snowboarder loves.

The skilled craftsmen have already been hard at work making snow at your favorite New Mexico ski area. Make plans to come see for yourself how smooth a ride it is.