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Archives for February 2017

Skiing Into Springtime

Feb 27, 2017 by Kent Wilhelmi

While the temperatures in the city may be hitting the 60’s this week, minds may begin drifting towards that mountain bike in the garage, or those golf clubs in the corner. While these are noble endeavors to consider, ski season is far from over here in New Mexico, and our ski areas and resorts are all enjoying an awesome, above-average snowpack. Here are just a handful of reasons to keep your gear tuned-up and your eyes on the mountains:

Great Snowpack

According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, all of our northern mountain basins are at normal, or above normal levels. What does this mean for skiing? It means we still have terrific conditions in the high country, and we expect them to last through the end of the season. Check out the Albuquerque Journal’s article here, to learn more.

Your Goggle Tan Could Be Awesome

Our perfect blue skies and slightly higher temperatures are just two of the necessary ingredients towards perfecting your spring goggle tan. A high-SPF sunscreen also comes highly recommended, not to mention that March is the perfect month to go deal-shopping for a fresh pair of lenses at any one of our local outdoor retailers.

The Parties Become Legendary

Because you can’t have spring without Spring Break, our mountain towns and resorts start scheduling some of their rowdiest events right around this time of year. Check out Skiesta at Pajarito Mountain on March 18th, or Sipapu’s 13th Annual Pond Skimming Contest on the same day. Further north, at Red River – pretty much the entire month of March is earmarked for parties, fireworks, and torchlight parades.

Good Vibrations

There is something wonderfully indescribable about skiing in warmer weather around this time of year. It’s a combination of the softer snow underfoot, the lighter layers against your skin, and perhaps the sheer ridiculousness of it all. To embellish, we here at Ski New Mexico highly recommend digging out that neon one-piece snowsuit from the depths of your garage. Because nothing says “Springtime!” like a vintage onesie on the slopes (and we guarantee, your enthusiasm for the season will become infectious).

Snow is Still Piling Up

Finally, let’s not neglect to comment about a particularly powerful storm that is coming straight for our northern mountains today and tomorrow. Check out the snow totals throughout the week – we’re about to get buried – again!

Filed Under: Behind the Scenes, Happenings, Ski New Mexico News, Weather

3 Reasons We Love Ski Apache

Feb 27, 2017 by Kelsie Stelting

When we think of Ski Apache, we think about amazing trails, stunning views, and an incredible skiing experience. With 55 trails, 11 lifts, a snow-making operation, and more than 750 skiable acres, Ski Apache makes skiing in New Mexico even sweeter. Here are a few of our favorite things about Ski Apache.

The Apache Bowl

The Apache Bowl is one of the most popular runs at Ski Apache. With a wide path and stunning mountain views from 11,000 feet above sea level, the Apache Bowl is breathtaking in more ways than one.

The Gondola

The only gondola at a New Mexico ski resort is right in Ruidoso’s back yard. The 12-minute gondola ride sweeps guests up to the top of Sierra Blanca at 11,500 feet elevation! From the peak, you can see amazing views, get a drink at the Yurt, or follow one of the many trails down the mountain and do it all over again!

Beginner Friendly

Ski Apache is known for being a great place for beginner skiers and snowboarders. Not only are 80% of the trails beginner or intermediate, but Ski Apache is running a discount too good to miss. Get a free lift ticket with the purchase of a beginner group lesson at Ski Apache!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a coat, grab a friend, and hit the slopes. And when you’re done, let us know what you love about Ski Apache!

Filed Under: Ski New Mexico News, Tips

All Are Welcome: New Mexico’s Adaptive Sports Program

Feb 20, 2017 by monica

New Mexico has resources for all types of skiers including those with physical and cognitive impairments. Everybody is welcome to feel the joy of skiing New Mexico’s sunny slopes.

Vests

Vests. Orange Vests. Not hunter orange, but the subtle orange of a late autumn pumpkin. From 20 feet above the ground, I can see orange vest after orange vest. Contrasting against the pearl white snow, the vests stand out, but the number of vests I’m seeing starts to make me wonder. Are the orange vests a new fashion trend on the mountain like the recent return of vintage 1980s and 1990s skiing attire? Is the orange vest some type of new skiing gear? As I float above the trail with the lift carrying me to the top of Ski Santa Fe, I notice the ski run dotted with people donning orange vests. I look up and down the mountain before my brain finally makes sense of what I am seeing. What I see is that all skiers are welcome and supported on the New Mexico slopes.

Adaptive Sports Program

Clad in orange fleece vests over their skiing attire, volunteers for Adaptive Sports Program New Mexico (ASP, www.adaptivesportsprogram.org) help youth and adults with physical and cognitive impairments enjoy the many outdoor activities across New Mexico. In the summer, ASP helps athletes with special needs go kayaking, rock climbing, wake boarding, and other sports. In the winter, the ASP volunteers appear at Ski Santa Fe and Sandia Peak Ski to work with individuals having developmental delays, physical impairments, autism, traumatic brain injuries, Down’s syndrome, critical illnesses, veterans with PTSD, and a variety of other disabilities. ASP serves over 500 athletes a year and give more than 1,000 lessons each year. ASP even partners with physical education classes to help New Mexico students with special needs get on the snow. It is not uncommon to see a group of elementary students with different disabilities skiing on a Friday morning.

What It Does

ASP offers athletes with special needs an opportunity to enjoy skiing and winter sports in New Mexico in a safe and fun environment. Having worked with youth and adults having special needs, I can attest that many individuals with cognitive and physical impairments can feel unsure of whether or how they can participate in outdoor activities. The logistics can be daunting given the need for specialized (and often very costly) equipment needed for skiers with physical impairments. An individual with a physical impairment may not be sure whether there are proper facilities to help get around a ski resort. It may also be difficult for someone with a cognitive impairment or anxiety disorder to feel comfortable getting ski lessons with a large group of beginning skiers. ASP provides an opportunity for athletes with special needs get the physical and social resources needed for a full day on the mountain.

Maybe most importantly, ASP is an opportunity for athletes to socialize with other athletes having special needs in a sport that we all love. People with cognitive and physical impairments can find it difficult meeting other people with similar experiences and interests. ASP puts athletes in touch with each other as well as with over 300 volunteers, which helps develop friendships and build bonds around the common skiing denominator. We all want to feel the cool breeze on our face and powdery snow regardless of our own possible issues.

I may be gushing a bit, but I believe that skiing can become a vehicle for empowering all individuals to enjoy the outdoors. If you don’t believe me, look for the orange vests on the New Mexico slopes. You will see volunteers grinning as they work with children, teens, and adults with special needs. You will then see athletes who are pretty impressive hurtling down the mountain (I have lost count of the number of times when an athlete in a sit-ski beat me). Indeed, the differences are not so important as the outcomes. All are welcome to a great day being on the snow in the Land of Enchantment.

Additional Information

ASP offers instruction at both Ski Santa Fe and Sandia Peak Ski, with both resorts providing generous support to the ASP athletes and volunteers. Other New Mexico resorts, such as Pajarito and Taos, can provide instruction or have special days for skiers with disabilities. You may want to contact these resorts to see what might be the best for you.

Facts for this blog came from the Adaptive Sports Program New Mexico fact sheet. Pictures are courtesy of ASP.

Filed Under: Behind the Scenes, Ski New Mexico News, Skier Stories, Tips

3 Reasons We Love Sipapu

Feb 13, 2017 by Kent Wilhelmi

Just south of Taos (and north of Santa Fe), Sipapu has been welcoming snowriders of all ages since 1952. A family ski area from the start, the last decade has seen a number of lift and trail improvements, as well as renovations to the historic base lodge along the Rio Pueblo. Boasting the longest season in the state (first to open, last to close), Sipapu serves up a lot of things we love, and here are just a few of them:

Everyone Knows Your Name

At least, they will after your first or second visit. Sipapu is very much a family mountain; while it attracts families from all over the Southwest, it is also a fraternity of long-time employees. From the lift-lines to the lodge, this mountain is full of friendly faces, everywhere, who are very pleased to have you as their guest.

The Terrain is Underrated

Beginners and burgeoning intermediates have a lot to smile about at Sipapu, with their very own dedicated quad chairlift running from the base area. This leaves the rest of the upper mountain, and it’s stashes, wide open for those willing to explore. The glade riding from Chair #4 is some of the finest in the state, and hidden chutes and tree passes literally cover the mountain (if you know where to look). Indecision (far skier’s right from the top of Chair #1) may be one of the most unknown steep shots in all the Southwest.

The Price is Right

At just $45 for an adult all-day lift ticket (and with group ticket deals that rotate almost daily), Sipapu is not only New Mexico’s cheapest lift ticket, it is also it’s greatest value. From free lessons to free lodging, Sipapu has something for any ability or age group to make their ski day (or winter vacation) easier on the wallet. Check out just some of their offerings right over here: https://www.sipapunm.com/specials-winter

Filed Under: Behind the Scenes, Ski New Mexico News, Tips

How Skiing Fills the Unforgiving February

Feb 13, 2017 by monica

When the mid-winter blues start to emerge, New Mexico offers two of the best days of skiing for nearly 28 days. The unforgiving month gives way to happy ski days with a mixture of fresh snow and spring skiing.

February. Ugh.

When the excitement of winter ends, and before the spring weather emerges from the frozen ground, resides the month of February. Besides its historical significance for Black History Month and Presidential birthdays, the briefest month in the calendar echoes of pure disdain – punctuated by Valentine’s Day to wound the frustratingly single. The families who filled the slopes during Christmas time are long departed from the New Mexico hotels and ski rental counters. There is a quietness across the trails before spring breakers and Mardi Gras beads appear on the slopes. February skiing may not bring the open-mouthed joy of opening day, but it does offer other greatness.

The February Skiers

In my experience, there are distinct February skiers populating the hills. There are the committed skiers who come every weekend regardless of weather or even if the calendar says February. There are the families taking their children to their ski lessons. There are the late bloomers who decide that halfway through the season would now be a good time to come out. Then, there are the fair-weather February skiers. I am one of these February skiers, which I only admit with some sense of guilt. I wish that I was the committed skier who grasps every minute possible of being on the snow, but February is just too much of a downer unless one of the three greatest days of the year appear.

February: Two of the Best Days

In my mind, and in no particular order, there are three great days of skiing. There is opening day, which is obviously great because of the dearth of time between last season’s turns and this year’s turns. Opening day allows powder days to come again, which are another of the three greatest days. Powder days are hallowed experiences where the beauty of snow dripping from pine trees is overshadowed by the softness of plush snow padding under foot. The elusiveness of a powder day contrasts against the inevitableness of the final great day of skiing. The final great day is often the most underappreciated as it comes toward the end of the season. This is the spring skiing day. Spring skiing means the snow softens from an overnight mess of iced runs and peaked moguls to the consistency and feeling of a spoon through soft frozen yogurt. A ski or snowboard can easily push against the warm and soft slush of spring skiing. This makes skiing forgiving for the beginner and the advanced skier as conditions can nearly mimic the feel of powder, but with the added benefit of warmer temperatures.

In New Mexico, February brings two of the three best days: powder days and spring skiing. In the past week, I personally had one of the best spring skiing days of my life, but I had powder for breakfast. I hit the steep slopes of Taos where I skied a mixture of leftover powder from a previous storm in the early morning as I hiked across The Ridge. Then, under 2 hours later, the slopes changed to ideal spring skiing conditions as the temperature shot above 40 degrees Fahrenheit to nearly 50. The green and blue runs became grippy, but not slow. The black runs softened. I could finally the black diamond trail (Al’s Run) underneath the main ski lift. I would stop on top of a mogul, say hi to those riding the lift up the mountains, and then dive back into the mounds of mashed potatoes with a smile stretched across my face. When I stopped for lunch, I had to reapply sunblock and wipe sweat from my face.

February in New Mexico also delivers the powder day. Winter storms pick back up across the Pacific Oceana and the Baja Bay, which shoot east and north to dump feet of snow on New Mexico’s peaks. In the past few years, the largest snowfalls have hit later in the season so that the February skiers were graced with the hallowed powder day. As I write, the ski resorts got a fresh dusting of four inches last night, with an expected additional four inches tonight. The weather reports say that another storm should come early next week. Between today’s weather and the next storm should be warm temperatures – both fresh powder and spring skiing. The two best ski days crowd out the short month of February.

Reconciliation

Like many others, I don’t like February. I try to get myself motivated to enjoy the waning days of winter, the upcoming parties of Mardi Gras and St. Patricks’ Day, and prepare for spring. Still, I have a hard time getting myself out the door unless I see one of the three greatest days of skiing approach. I therefore reconcile my being a fair-weather February skier because, fortunately, New Mexico skiing in February often means hitting the slopes on two of the greatest days all month long.

Filed Under: Behind the Scenes, Ski New Mexico News, Weather

3 Reasons We Love Pajarito

Feb 6, 2017 by Kelsie Stelting

Pajarito Mountain, located in the Jemez Mountains, it’s the ideal location for people looking to get away from the crowds and get great views of New Mexico. With 300 acres of cleared, skiable terrain, dedicated snowmaking, and a great selection of discounts and promotions, it is not only a great place to ski or snowboard, but also an affordable destination for snowsports enthusiasts. In case you needed any extra reasons, here are three things we love about Pajarito Mountain.

No Lift Lines

Pajarito Mountain is famous for its lack of lift lines. Standing in lines or navigating around other boarders or skiers can get old really quickly. Avoid this at Pajarito and spend more time doing what you went there to do!

Snowmaking

A lack of snow can really put a damper on a skiing or snowboarding trip. The snowmaking operation at Pajarito has taken the guessing out of the trip, and allowed people to enjoy the slopes all season long!

Panoramic Views

With a peak elevation of 10,440 feet, Pajarito Mountain has beautiful views! From the summit you can see the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the southern Rock Mountains, the Valles Caldera National Preserve, and even the Sandia Mountains.

Comment below and let us know what you love about skiing or snowboarding at Pajarito Mountain!

Filed Under: Behind the Scenes, Ski New Mexico News, Tips

Mardi Gras 2017

Feb 6, 2017 by monica

Mardi Gras Celebrations 2017

Can’t make it to Bourbon Street for Mardi Gras this year? Don’t fret. New Mexico’s coolest Mardi Gras celebrations include… snow! Why fly all the way to Louisiana where the mosquitos and alligators roam when you can celebrate in the same ol’ crazy fashion, but in your own backyard? On skis. Minus mosquitos and alligators.

Get your costumes ready and come join one or more of these parties. It’s (almost) better than the real thing!

 

Red River |Mardi Gras in the Mountains | February 23-28

The biggest celebration in NM is in Red River where the town dedicates a full week to the holiday. This year’s theme is ‘Nightmare on Main Street’. Red River’s Mardi Gras is an all-inclusive, the more-the-merrier kind of event and you’ll want to bring your “krewe” with you. Enjoy costume balls (use the theme for costume ideas), bead tossing, parades, Cajun food and crawfish boils and so much more. Don’t miss the traditional burning of the Loup-garu or the downhill gator race. For more info and schedule of events visit https://www.redriverchamber.org/mardi-gras-in-the-mountains

 

Angel Fire | Mardi Gras Celebration | February 24-28

You’ll find Mardi Gras spirit galore on the slopes at Angel Fire Resort. The annual celebration includes live music, parades, plenty of bead tossing, a masquerade ball, and more. For daily activities and all the info go to https://www.angelfireresort.com/event/angel-fire-mardi-gras-celebration/

 

Ski Apache | Fat Tuesday Costume Day | February 28

Don your craziest attire and shred! The crazier the better. Come join the party. For details go to: https://www.skiapache.com/event/fat-tuesday-costume-day-2/

Filed Under: Happenings, Ski New Mexico News

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    While we're patiently waiting for the slopes to open up, there's still plenty of outdoor activities you can do in the meantime! Rent a bike and take on some rad trails and challenging obstacles! 🚲💨

📸: @skiapache 

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    Get your adrenaline pumping at @skiapache on their three-part ziplining course. 😃

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    Catching some big ones 🎣 in the Monte Verde Lake. Come create memories that will become fishing tales for years to come! 🐟

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    Tag your adventure buddies you want to take whitewater rafting.

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    We're "paw"sitive your four-legged friends are gonna love the hike up to Williams Lake in Taos Ski Valley. 🐾 

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    Fact: Hikes along Middle Fork Lake in Red River are good for the soul! ✨

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    Monsoon season in Taos sure is a sight to see!

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    Sliding into another glorious month of outdoor activities! There’s no shortage of fun to be had in Red River during the summer months. Bring the whole family out for adventures they won’t soon forget.

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    A chill way to beat the heat! 

If you haven't experienced the mountains during summer, the Pajarito Bird Bash is a great reason to go! Head up to Pajarito Mountain August 5th from 2-5pm for an 80’s Beer and Band jam with group The Disclaimers.

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    We may be partial to winter, for obvious reasons, but there's nothing like a New Mexico summer sunset 🌄 

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    Summertime views at Ski Apache! Plan your visit and experience all of their fun outdoor summertime activities today! 

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    Hiking or biking this summer? Let us know in the comments below which trail in New Mexico is your favorite to hike or bike! 

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