Archives for March 2018

Another season is almost over, and I feel like just yesterday I was writing about how excited I was to go skiing on a New Mexico bluebird day. Now, ski areas are hosting closing day events and turning off the snow makers, and I’m wondering how I’m supposed to fit my ski clothes in storage with the rest of my winter gear.

New Mexico ski areas went above and beyond this year, improving the slopes before the season began, making snow when Mother Nature couldn’t provide, and hosting events people of all ages could enjoy.

This season marked Taos Ski Valley’s updated learning area, the renovated children’s center, the ski area’s push for sustainability, and the tenth year of snowboarding at Taos. Pajarito Mountain boasted a new magic carpet for beginners, and Ski Apache added a Doppelmayr triple chair. Not to mention, Angel Fire Resort brought in an expert to expand the Liberation Terrain Park and stash features along designated green and blue trails.

Even in a dry winter, the slopes had solid bases great for skiing and snowboarding, because of the ski areas’ snowmaking operations. Thanks to these systems and professionals, the season was able to start earlier and end later than would have otherwise been possible.

In my opinion, one the best parts of skiing in New Mexico is the community you feel at the ski areas. It might be something in the water (or the snow) but everyone I came across this year was friendly, helpful, and pleasant to be around. That makes events on the mountain an even better time.

Night skiing with music jamming at Angel Fire resort was a blast, Sipapu made a winter wonderland with the Fun Fest castle, and the throwback pond skim at Red River was good for so many laughs. Mentioning all the events at the ski areas is impossible, but the gatherings helped us make memories that will last long after the last flake thaws.

You can still manage to squeeze in that last ski trip of the season if you hurry. Taos Ski Valley and Ski Santa Fe will be closing this Sunday, April 1 but they are open all week long!  Sipapu Ski & Summer Area will be open weekends until April 8, 2018.  So don’t miss your last chance to make some last turns this season.

Ski season only happens once a year, and New Mexico ski areas make it count. This spring, there are several events to choose from, including pond skimming at Red River Ski & Summer Area and the Rail Jam at Ski Santa Fe.

Drag out your one-piece snow suits and fluff up your mullet, because Red River Ski Area is bringing in spring with a throwback pond skim event March 25. The event kicks off at 3:30 p.m., but entertainment and drink specials last all day at The Lift House.

To see people ski down the mountain and attempt “skimming” over a pool of water, gather at The Lift House and prepare for a good time, said Reed Weimer, Red River social media and events coordinator.

“Pond Skim is family-friendly, but it is the final part of the year,” Weimer said. “We typically pack the deck and snow with spectators, along with live music.”

Registration for the event starts at 1 p.m. Those participating will be judged on costume, splash, and form, with prizes going to the best in each category.

This season, Red River Ski Area is the only New Mexico resort offering Pond Skimming.

“The 17/18 season was tough but thanks to our powerful snowmaking system we had excellent snow even when Mother Nature didn’t provide,” Weimer said.

Ski Santa Fe is gearing up for a party this weekend too: Rail Jam. In its third year, Rail Jam is an opportunity for snowboarders and skiers to showcase their skills on the rails in front of judges while onlookers.

The event will be near Totemoff’s bar on March 25, where visitors can enjoy food with a signature warm cocktail, hot chocolate, or local craft beer. Stephen Trask, Ski Santa Fe director of marketing, said there will also be a DJ and an MC at this event.

Where are you planning on bringing in spring this year? Comment below and let us know!