A trip to a ski resort is fun for the entire family. Here are some activities sure to please everyone in the group.
Take the scenic route
The Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway and the Ski Apache Gondola take visitors to the peak for a breathtaking view with protection from the cold. The tramway at Sandia Peak spans a distance of 2.7 miles and takes passengers to an observation deck more than 10,000 feet above sea level. The Gondola at Ski Apache heads straight to the Sierra Blanca Peak. Remember to stop for a drink at Yurt Café, surrounded by panoramic views.
Go tubing
Bring a tube of your own for a quick ride down a hill or head down the tubing lanes at Ruidoso Winter Park, Taos Ski Valley, and Angel Fire Resort. Each area offers a “magic carpet” so you can spend your time tubing instead of climbing! Be sure to check the websites for deals and height and age requirements.
Snowmobile
Heading out on a snowmobile gives you a chance to head off the beaten path and enjoy the mountains from a new perspective. There are opportunities for guided tours and snowmobile rentals at Taos, Angel Fire, Red River, and Ruidoso. This article is a great resource for planning a snowmobiling adventure in New Mexico.
Go Zip lining
The Ski Apache Wind Rider ZipTour gives riders a thrilling view of the slopes with an 8,890-feet course and speeds of up to 65 MPH. Visitors can opt to ride alone or with a partner and take a single leg of the zip tour or all three. Ski Apache offers a zip line adventure through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains lasting two to three hours. Visit each site to book in advance and check weight, age, and height requirements.
Have a Spa Day
Sunrise Springs Spa Resort offers a peaceful retreat from the cold in Santa Fe, and Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa in Ojo Caliente is the perfect place to relax after a long day. Both spas offer rejuvenating spa treatments and peaceful settings in nature.
Soak in the Culture
Each New Mexico town has its own unique culture and special attractions. A day spent downtown shopping could quickly turn into a historical and cultural excursion. If you’re in Santa Fe, hit the Plaza, a downtown area featuring Native American and Spanish markets, community gatherings, concerts, and more. For families visiting Sandia Mountain, Historic Old Town in Albuquerque is a great stop for shopping and authentic New Mexican cuisine. The Taos Plaza blends history and entertainment with shopping and monuments in the area. The Taos Pueblo, located about a mile north of Taos, features a pueblo built between 1000 and 1400.
Watch a torchlight parade
New Mexico ski areas work hard to create a good experience for visitors. Each area offers fun events, like Red River Ski and Summer Area’s Torchlight Parade and Fireworks. Every Saturday night of the season, skiers and snowboarders showcase their skills while riding down the mountain carrying torches while fireworks light the sky behind them. Taos Ski Valley and Angel Fire Resort also have torchlight parades and fireworks on holidays.
What are your favorite non-skiing activities during winter vacation? Comment below and let us some of the ways you stay #SkiNewMexicoTRUE!
