Ski New Mexico

Skiing and Snowboarding in the Land of Enchantment

monica

Diving into Winter, Differently

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Santa Fe NM

Ski Santa Fe is well known for downhill thrills, but the excitement is enhanced by the nearby town. If there is a more charming place than Santa Fe in winter—cozy adobe dwellings, chilly nights, warm lights, the scent of pinion smoke wafting through the air—I have yet to find it. Add a little snow, which is entirely possible from December to March, and it becomes one of the most unique and lovely settings anywhere in the United States. I’ve called Santa Fe home for more than 20 years and I’ve never grown tired of this picturesque tableau.

Few events capture this character better than the town’s Christmas Eve Farolito Walk. When the sun sets every year on December 24, the traditional candle lanterns lining sidewalks and rooftops light up by the thousands. Soon the crowds arrive to stroll historic Canyon Road, past pinion bonfires, sparkling trees, and groups of carolers. It’s like walking through a living fairy tale. 

For all its old-world charm, however, these days Santa Fe is a bustling contemporary destination. Long a popular and much-celebrated vacation spot, Santa Fe’s special history—the rich native culture, the oldest continuously occupied building in the nation, the art and architecture, to mention a few—is well-known. But new currents are coursing through town. Take, for example, Meow Wolf, a must-see immersive art installation that began in Santa Fe in 2008 and has grown to become a thriving entertainment fixture, with additional outlets appearing around the country. Include other world-class venues, like Site Santa Fe and the Center for Contemporary Arts, along with the many independent galleries around town, and the “City Different” becomes worth a visit for the art alone.

But of course many other options abound. Celebrated for its outdoor recreation, Santa Fe sparkles during the colder months, too. Ski Santa Fe, just a 16-mile drive east of downtown, is the main attraction, but you can also venture out for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, year-round fishing, and off-road exploration—all easily accessible from a Santa Fe basecamp.

Work up an appetite? Good, because the food and beverage scene in Santa Fe is worthy of its reputation as one of the best “foodie” towns in the country. That’s because Santa Fe excels in a variety of regional specialties, particularly its world-famous red and green chile, ladled onto enchiladas and burritos, served alongside posole, tamales, tacos, sopapillas (fried bread), and huevos rancheros.

For top-notch chile samplings, try local favorites like The Shed and La Choza. Other great options can be found at Harry’s Roadhouse, Counter Culture, Tune-Up Cafe, Tesuque Village Market, El Parasol, El Farol, or the excellent new Horno, which opened in Summer 2021. Both Bobcat Bite and the outdoor walk-up, Shake Foundation, are known for their terrific green chile cheeseburgers.

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at Tune-Up, El Palacio, or Dolina Cafe, which informally compete for the best breakfast burritos in town. Or try a coffee and beignet from the popular French bakery Clafoutis. For lunch, check out the healthy, fresh fare at Opuntia, in the Railyard, with one of the best views around. If you’re looking to take it more upscale for dinner, you’ve got abundant classy spots to choose from, including Geronimo, The Compound, izanami, Sazon, Joseph’s, and Paloma, with their creative takes on classic New Mexican entrees. And if you wind up completely hooked on Santa Fe’s signature flavors, bring some of them home with a visit to the Santa Fe Cooking School for hands-on culinary lessons.

While driving tours can cover a lot of ground, Santa Fe may be at its best on foot. Whether you’re a fit, ambitious hiker setting out to scale Atalaya Mountain, a strenuous 2,000 foot ascent to stunning views just east of town via the Dale Ball Trails, or a casual ambler strolling around Museum Hill or the shops and galleries surrounding the Plaza, walking is the best way to experience this historic place. Did you know Santa Fe has a Margarita Trail? Complete with its own app to guide you to more than three dozen spots mixing top-shelf cocktails, you can plot your own course. Two of my favorites: La Reina, at the El Rey hotel on Cerrillos, and the Anasazi Bar and Lounge, one block from the Santa Fe Plaza.

Naturally, after all that walking (or skiing, or snowboarding, or sledding, or cross-country touring), you’ll want to indulge in a little self-care. The good news is your choices around Santa Fe range from the excellent to the opulent. The Japanese onsen-style spa Ten Thousand Waves is a much-loved—and highly recommended—destination for locals and visitors. La Posada offers deluxe spa treatments in a historic adobe setting. And the newly renovated Bishop’s Lodge, near Tesuque, offers a five-star splurge that Conde Nast Traveler recently called one of the “coolest hotels in the U.S.” And of course there are numerous short-term rentals on AirBnB, VRBO, and other platforms, to find your perfect retreat. Rest up. A winter full of fun, on snow and off, awaits.

Gem of the South

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Ruidoso, New Mexico

Drive a couple of hours south of Albuquerque and you’ll find what I consider to be one of New Mexico’s best hidden treasures: Ski Apache. Tucked into the Sierra Blanca mountains at an impressive elevation of more than 10,000 feet, this unassuming family hill sees an average 15 feet of snow blanketing its 750-acres and 1,900 foot vertical drop.

It’s southerly location is only one aspect of Ski Apache that makes this place unique. Since 1993, the area has been owned and operated by the Mescalero Apache tribe. It also remains the only mountain in New Mexico with its own 8-passenger gondola. And it’s surrounded by compelling attractions, including the charming town of Ruidoso and White Sands National Park.

For a small town with a full-time population of about 8,000, Ruidoso offers some big amenities. From shopping local boutique and vintage shops in midtown, to the Ruidoso Winter Park, one of the largest tubing playgrounds in the Rockies, to dining and cultural events, you could spend an entire season exploring all the different activities and attractions in the area.

Naturally, you’ll need a good home base from which to launch all this exploration, and there are some great local options. The Inn of the Mountain Gods resort and casino, also owned by the Mescalero Apache, has deluxe rooms and numerous on-site extras, including several restaurants and its own golf course. Equally posh is the MCM Elegante Lodge and Resort, with in-room jetted tubs and kitchenettes. There are also dozens of quaint cabins, nicely furnished rental homes, and convenient condos around town—many of them pet-friendly.

Wherever you land, start your day at Cornerstone Bakery Cafe for full-service breakfast and an excellent selection of pastries. Tina’s whips up the most (deservedly!) popular breakfast burrito in town. Or try Apache Donuts for a quick morning sweet treat. Coffee aficionados will appreciate the quality brew at Zocca. Or try Sacred Grounds for anything from a quick cappuccino to a full sit-down meal.

When it comes to lunch, make your way to the Village Buttery, a cozy cafe near the heart of town for a bacon, avocado, lettuce, and tomato (BALT) sandwich, and chase it with a piece of their famous Buttermilk Pie. You’ll also find terrific burgers at Hall of Flame, along with irresistible green chile cheese fries. If you’re in the mood for pizza, Cafe Rio is the place.

For a more upscale experience, head to Wendell’s, at the Inn of the Mountain Gods, for steak and seafood. Or try D.H. Lescombe Winery and Bistro, a little down the road in Alamogordo, for fine food and beverage selection. The popular Noisy Water Winery, in Ruidoso, doesn’t have a restaurant, but you can enjoy a wonderful charcuterie board and specialty cheeses along with flights of their locally produced wine—including one made with green chile.

For some additional entertainment, check out the schedule for the Spencer Theater. A work of art itself, this 514-seat performing arts theater rivals similar spaces in much bigger cities. The Spencer attracts world-class acts year-round. Watch the Nutcracker over the holidays, or grab tickets for shows by touring musicians and dance troupes.

The area has some lively history. Billy the Kid is reported to have escaped from jail here, among his other exploits. You can take a drive along the Billy the Kid Scenic Byway for a rolling tour of the area’s Wild West days. The most fun fun-fact however, may be the origins of Smokey Bear, the beloved Forest Service mascot and wildfire crusader. The real-life cub was rescued from a raging fire in the Lincoln National Forest, in nearby Capitan before being relocated to Washington D.C. and taking on the role of America’s most recognizable bear.

Another great attraction in the area is White Sands National Park. About an hour drive from Ruidoso you’ll find the world’s largest gypsum dune field, one of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve ever seen. You can also pay a visit to the nearby Trinity Site, where the first atomic bomb was detonated.  

While the renowned Ruidoso Downs Race Track only operates during the summer, horse lovers will find ample equestrian attractions around the area, even in the winter. Check out “Free Spirit,” a life-size installation at the Museum of the Horse. Or drop by the Kenneth Wyatt and Thunder Horse galleries. 

If all the activity leaves you in need of a little self-care, you’re in luck. The Blue Lotus can help you unwind with massage and facials, along with yoga and Pilates, if that’s your speed. From skiing and riding at Apache, to the family-friendly amenities around town, escape the daily grind and unwind in this gem of the south.

Article by Nick Heil

The Home-Grown, World-Class Retreat

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Taos Ski Valley

One of my favorite rituals after a day tackling the steeps at Taos Ski Valley is to head down the mountain road to the quaint village of Arroyo Seco and order a double scoop of Taos Cow ice cream. Ice cream in the middle of winter? Yep. As a self-proclaimed connoisseur, it’s some of the best I’ve ever tried.

Like Taos Cow, which recently moved into a new facility, lots of changes have been afoot at TSV, and some of those changes have been significant. That’s a good thing, because there have been numerous capital improvements, upgrades, and additions to New Mexico’s marquee ski resort.

The good news that comes along with all the improvements is that TSV hasn’t lost any of its familiar charm and character. I’ve always adored the European atmosphere at the Ski Valley, thanks to the Swiss-German founder Ernie Blake, who envisioned an Alps-style resort tucked into New Mexico’s Sangre de Cristo mountains—and that feeling has been preserved. You can still hang out at The Bavarian, the classic inn at the base of Chair 4 that feels like you’ve been transported to a chalet in the Alps.

But the improvements are welcome, too. Literally at the center of it all is TSV’s new crown jewel, The Blake, the four-star hotel that rises five stories above the base area. The Blake, along with the brand new Blake Residences, offers guests a premium slope-side lodging experience, with a deluxe onsite spa, a great restaurant, and experienced staff on hand 24-7 to help with any needs.

Other excellent lodging can be found throughout the Ski Valley, including the ski-in, ski-out Edelweiss and Snakedance lodges. Looking for a condo or entire mountainside house? A number of turnkey rentals can be found through taosskivalley.com. Here’s more good news: You can now fly direct to Taos, via Taos Air, from Austin and Dallas, Texas, as well as San Diego and Los Angeles.

Another great part of the recent development at Taos is the expanded dining options. Topping the list is 192 at The Blake. The intimate dining room and lounge on the hotel’s ground floor is the go-to spot for discriminating guests for both apres and fine dining. Or try the Blonde Bear Tavern, in the Edelweiss Lodge, also in the base area. Executive Chef Bill Hartig prides himself on producing his meals from scratch, and pairs them with an excellent wine list. It’s worth noting that the fantastic breakfasts at Naranja Cafe come from the same kitchen.

Take a break during your ski day for schnitzel and a mug of German beer on the sundrenched patio of the Bavarian. Stop in at the Taos Ale House, for aprés ski action and some Detroit style pizza.

A short drive to Arroyo Seco will expand your options further, including the well-rated Aceq, serving cozy farm-to-table entrees. Another Arroyo Seco favorite, Sabrosa, does tasty barbecue and excellent margaritas. Venture a couple of miles further to Medley for high-quality fish, steaks, and vegetarian fare, paired with a quality wine list. Or keep it casual at Pizanos, dishing out some of the best pizza in the area.

Need your coffee and pastry fix in the morning? Black Diamond Espresso, in the base area just steps from Lift 1, is the spot. In addition to excellent espresso, the walk-up window also offers a variety of spiced mocha and hot chocolate drinks. Try the Mexican Mocha for a warm afternoon pick-up.

While the Ski Valley puts its main focus on skiing and snowboarding, that’s not the only recreation around. Nearby Williams Lake is popular with backcountry skiers and snowshoers. You can book a snowmobile tour from Big Al’s that will ferry you up to 12,000 feet for some of the most scenic views in the area. Or take a drive down to the Taos Gorge Bridge, where you can ogle at the overlook and, if your timing is right, catch a glimpse of the bighorn sheep that roam the plateau.

Ready to shift into full relaxation mode? Wind things down at the Spa and Wellness Center at The Blake, which offers full service massage and facial treatments. This may be one of the nicest features of the new-and-improved Taos Ski Valley: you still feel like you’re getting a real mountain experience without sacrificing any creature comforts. Comfortable and convenient lodging, a full-service spa, and some terrific food. Oh, and I’m going to put Taos Cow ice cream on that list, too. Taos just wouldn’t be the same without it.

Article by: Nick Heil

Hidden History in the Jemez

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Los Alamos, NM

When I first moved to New Mexico in the late ‘90s, few places piqued my interest more than Los Alamos, the quaint town carved into the eastern slope of the Jemez Mountains. So much history! So much mystery!

My early forays had a narrow focus: to chase powder at Pajarito, the modest-but-fun ski hill five miles west of—and 2,000 feet above—town. But as I discovered all the area had to offer, that powder addiction turned into broader exploration and adventure.

It would be easy to spend days immersed entirely in the history of the Manhattan Project, the infamous, then-classified enterprise to develop the atomic bomb. In fact, Los Alamos might not exist today were it not for the elite scientists who assembled there during World War II, using fake names and false addresses while working long hours in the secret lab. Point of fact: the ski area was originally built to provide the scientists with discrete winter recreation close to home.

Much of Los Alamos’s rich story is on display at the excellent Bradbury Science Museum. But for a deeper dive, visitors can visit the nearby Manhattan Project National Historic Park, ride along with Atomic Tours for narrated local highlights, and make a trip to the Oppenheimer House—the original residence of J. Robert Oppenheimer himself.

Los Alamos isn’t just about the country’s most famous science experiment, however. Long a sleepy hamlet nestled against the hills, these days the town of Los Alamos is a bustling, diverse community with a growing list of amenities and attractions. Winterfest traditionally kicks off the holiday season in early December. In January you can catch the Backcountry Film Festival, featuring some of the year’s best short adventure films. In March, while the days lengthen and warm and before the snow has vanished, Pajarito hosts its lively Skiesta, a kind of Mardi Gras on the slopes.

The region’s cultural and natural history are also worth exploring. The Los Alamos History Museum provides a guided 1.5-mile walking tour of the area that takes you back more than 1,000 years. Better yet, head to nearby Bandelier National Monument to see ancient ruins and cliff dwellings left behind by the Anasazi, who inhabited the Pajarito Plateau for some 400 years. Most recently the land has been occupied by the Jicarilla Apache and Pueblo tribes.

Not far away, along the Jemez Scenic Byway (worth a drive in itself), is the Valles Calderas National Preserve, a vast volcanic basin teeming with wildlife that is popular with cross-country skiers and snowshoers in the winter. If you’ve traveled this far, it’s just a short drive over to Jemez Hot Springs, a cozy resort with naturally fed pools in a rugged mountain setting.

Each season seems to bring more dining and entertainment to town—or at least more people to the existing ones. Among the more popular gathering places is Bathtub Row Brewing, on Central Park Square (and just a block from the Los Alamos History Museum). I’m particularly fond of their flagship beer, the Hoppenheimer IPA. The brewery doesn’t serve food, but locals like to grab tacos from El Rigoberto’s, right next door, to accompany their drafts. Another great local brewery is Boese Brothers, offering quality subs and sandos, along with regular live music.

Los Alamos has a few dining spots worth a visit. For top-notch coffee and fresh pastries, try the French-style patisserie Fleur de Lys on Trinity Drive. You’ll find impressively good sushi at both Origami and Cafe Sushi. There’s a nice, quaint vibe at Viola’s, a family-run cafe with authentic New Mexican offerings. And Blue Window, a moderately upscale bistro, offers entrees ranging from enchiladas to scallops, and a well-curated wine list. Another popular spot in neighboring White Rock, just a few minutes down the road from Los Alamos, is Pig+Fig, a casual cafe with great salads and baked goods. Prefer the true Los Alamos local’s experience? Drop into the Smith’s grocery store, where you’ll find a busy bar and tasty wood-fired pizza.

Lodging in Los Alamos is basic—think Holiday Inn and Best Western—but comfy and affordable. For a splurge, head about 30 miles east to the Four Seasons Rancho Encantado, a deluxe resort tucked into the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountains. Visiting Los Alamos entails a slight detour from the primary winter travel corridor between Albuquerque and Taos, but it’s a worthy diversion. Time it right and the Pajarito powder can be excellent and the crowds non-existent. Stay a while and you’ll come away enriched by the town’s compelling history, one of the greatest stories of the 20th century.

Article by: Nick Heil

Festival February In NM

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Who doesn’t need a good festival right about now? There’s just something about putting the words “winter” and “festival” together that teases the senses with everything from the sight of sparkling string lights to the taste of kettle corn and mulled wine to the sounds of acoustic music wafting through saloon doors.
Let’s see what New Mexico has in store for us this snowy February:


RED RIVER
If you scoot up there pretty quick, you can catch the Red River Songwriter Festival Feb. 3-5. Founded in 2012, this 10th Annual event is designed to be intimate and personal. Tickets are officially sold out at this point, but you might be able to score some tickets on their Facebook page (@RedRiverSongs) There will be a variety of solo shows, duo shows, and collaborations between some of the most talented and respected songwriters in today landscape of Americana music. Expect late night informal jams, early afternoon ski runs, and who knows what else. Now that you know, get on their mailing list for next year.


Later in the month, Feb. 24- March 1, celebrate Mardi Gras in the Mountains, a Red River tradition that draws visitors from all over the country. Experience the burning of the tchoupitoulas, and dress up for the Grand Ball. The Mardi Gras Main Street parade showcases local business and their holiday spirit.

SIPAPU
Did someone say FREE?? Yep, that what the 2022 February Fun Fest at Sipapu Feb. 26-28 is…FREE. The main attraction is a giant snow castle built by the Sipapu mountain team. The 2-3-story tall castle is unique every year, but is a veritable snow playground for all ages. Other events, like the costume contest and parade, the Penny Toss and a kids Treasure Hunt all over the mountain provide the setting for a weekend you and your kids won’t soon forget.

TAOS
For more of an adult festival, check out the 35th Annual Taos Winter Wine Festival Feb 3-6. The three-day week-end of events features the culinary artistry in Taos paired with wines from 30 wineries from around the world. Food and wine events include a Reserve Tasting, chef luncheons, aprés ski tastings, and wine dinners. Tickets and schedule here.

SANTA FE
Spread out over two weekends (Feb. 3-13), the Santa Fe Film Festival is one of the oldest film festivals in the world. With more than 500 feature, documentary and short entries from 38 countries, there is something for ev-eryone. On the schedule are Q&As, panels, workshops, red carpet interviews and a mini awards ceremony both weekends. Come in from the cold and check it out here.

RUIDOSO
Down south, our friends in Ruidoso will stage the Annual Vines in the Pines Art and Wine Festival Feb. 19 & 20 at the Ruidoso Convention Center. Taste wines from a variety of New Mexico wineries while you enjoy shopping local arts, crafts, food, and boutique vendors. Ticket price includes entry, a complementary wine glass and tast-ings at each winery. And if your palate runs more towards beer tasting, they’ll have that, too. You might want to bring a wagon–there will be sales by the bottle and the case.

Taos Winter Wine Festival

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February 3-6, 2022

The Taos Winter Wine Festival is an annual four-day weekend of events featuring the culinary artistry found in Taos, New Mexico’s many excellent restaurants coupled with the sophistication and wines of national wineries.

By bringing over 40 national wineries to Taos to partner with 24 of the areas best restaurants, a four-day schedule of snow, food and wine events featuring the Grand and Reserve Tastings, chefs luncheons, winery seminars and wine dinners. The weekend culminates with the Grand Tasting at the Taos Valley Ski Resort where restaurants and wineries serve samples of their best food and wine.

For a full schedule visit taoswinterwinefest.com

Photo: https://www.facebook.com/TaosWinterWineFest/

Where the Mountains Feed Your Soul

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Angel Fire NM

In the summer months, Angel Fire draws hordes of enthusiastic mountain bikers to its world-class bike park. In the winter, when the snow flies, the resort transforms into a snowy playground of the first order. But here’s the thing about Angel Fire: while the sports are top-notch, so is the rest and relaxation. You don’t have to do anything, except kick back and let the mountain air restore you.

If you do come for the skiing and riding, however, you’ll find a renowned ski and snowboard school that makes it an ideal place for newbies, and enough challenging runs to keep experts happy. What’s more, Angel Fire is the only resort in the state to offer night skiing. Add three terrain parks, a tubing and sledding hill, more than 10 miles of nordic track, snowshoe trails, and abundant slopeside lodging, and you’ve got a legit winter destination.

Because Angel Fire loves to host families, many of the amenities cater to groups. Numerous multi-room condos and spacious vacation houses dot the base area, providing easy access to lifts with all the comforts of home. For those who want to be in the very heart of it all, you can book a room at the Lodge at Angel Fire, a contemporary hotel steps from the lift with a pool, hot tub, fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms.

For those in need of additional square footage, you can find well-appointed two- and three-bedroom units that are an easy walk to the slopes. Need even more space? Dozens of vacation homes are available around the mountain, all within easy striking distance of the on-mountain action—from a large, light-filled home with stunning views that sleeps eight, to a 2,500-square foot cabin that will accommodate up to 13.

If you like to roll in your RV, even in winter, you’ll be happy to know about the deluxe Angel Fire RV Resort. The state-of-the-art facility provides more than a hundred paved and level pads, with an on-site bath house, hot tub, and wifi, along with a retail market, laundry, and even a putting green.

Most of the dining options are conveniently close to Angel Fire’s base area. The Village Haus Restaurant and Bar is located on the ground floor of The Lodge, and Legends Grill, a family-friendly pub that serves gourmet burgers and other classic fare, can be found on the second floor. El Jefe, a “Fresh Mex” restaurant known for its top-shelf margaritas, can be found just across from the Chile Express Lift. During the mountain’s operating hours, make your way to the Summit Haus, at the top of Chile Express, for endless views on the wraparound deck.

You’ll find lots of casual dining options around town, from craft brewpubs to pizza and sandwich shops. And for those seeking a more upscale experience, Elements, at the Angel Fire Country Club, does excellent steaks and seafood.

You could easily spend a vacation sticking close to Angel Fire, but a few side trips are worth consideration. The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway loops around Wheeler Peak, New Mexico’s highest point at 13,159 feet, and takes you through Eagle Nest, Red River, Questa,  and Taos. The scenery alone is worth the drive. But of course each town has its own share of attractions.

Just north of Angel Fire, along Highway 64, you’ll find the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Opened in 1971, the chapel and site were created by Victor and Jeanne Westphall to honor veterans after the death of their son David, a First Lieutenant killed in action in 1968. It was the first major monument of its kind—and is often cited as a source of inspiration for the monument built in Washington D.C. in 1982. The New Mexico memorial sees some 45,000 annual visitors.

You may not encounter anything quite as poignant as the Vietnam memorial along the Enchanted Highway but there are many other worthy stops. Grab a bite in Eagle Nest and continue on over Bobcat Pass, the state’s highest road, before dropping down into Red River. By the time you roll through Taos, you’ll be ready for some of New Mexico’s famous red and green chile. Then it’s back to the lovely Moreno Valley, home to Angel Fire, where you can breathe deep, relax, and rest up for another day of mountain adventure.

Article by: Nick Heil

Absorb the magic and spiritual energy of Taos, New Mexico

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Article by Nick Heil

The first lift started spinning in the mountains outside of Taos way back in the 1950s, and since that time the name has become synonymous with the skiing. Even before I moved to New Mexico more than 20 years ago, I’d heard of the sun-soaked mountain oasis that delivers world-class skiing and snowboarding in one of the most unique settings anywhere in North America. Little did I know then just how special it really was.

Home to Taos Pueblo (a World Heritage Site), iconic adobe churches, numerous art galleries, quirky cafes and fine restaurants, boutique shops, and and eye-popping natural wonders like the Taos Gorge, the town and its surroundings are a kind of condensed version of the entire state. While some towns are conducive to an improvised visit, there’s so much to do and see around Taos it’s worth making an actual plan.

You could spend days simply touring the area and checking out the sites. Several view points in the Rio Grand Valley and along the Rio Grand Bridge provide Instagram-worthy photos. A little further down Highway 285, you’ll find Ojo Caliente Hot Springs, a posh resort with soaking pools, mud baths, a terrific restaurant, and cozy rooms and cottages. You can visit the D.H. Lawrence ranch, where the literary giant lived and wrote—and even pair this with a side trip to Ghost Ranch, Georgia O’Keefe’s home and studio, for a double dose of art history. Just north of town, you can tour one of Taos’s legendary earth ships, a type of sustainable architecture built with recycled materials like bottles and tires. Or keep your exploration right downtown with a visit to the famous Taos Plaza.

Regardless of the time of year and your zest for adventure, a walking tour of Taos is a must. Even without an agenda the town is fun to explore, but you’ll get more out of the experience with a few mandatory stops. The Taos Art Museum and the Millicent Rogers Museum (Rogers family amassed one of the greatest collections of southwest art in the region) top the list. From there you can wander to the San Francisco de Assisi Mission Church—photographed by Ansel Adams and painted by O’Keefe. And make your way to the Kit Carson Home and Museum to learn more about Taos’s most famous past resident.

No surprise that this cultural melting pot also has a vast array of dining options. There are numerous excellent New Mexican options, featuring spicy green and red chile, tamales, enchiladas, and other local favorites. I love Antonio’s (as do many others), a fun, casual place for lunch and dinner specializing in southwest fare. For similar tastes, you can’t go wrong at Orlando’s, Michael’s Kitchen, El Taosueno, and La Cueva Cafe as well.

Branch out in other culinary directions at places like Aji, a terrific newer player on the restaurant scene specializing in Peruvian dishes. Taos mainstays like Doc Martin’s, at the Taos Inn, and Lambert’s always deliver (filet mignon or lobster risotto, anyone?). For more casual dining, check out The Burger Stand (don’t miss their duck-fat fries) and the always popular Taos Mesa Brewing. For a special night out, who doesn’t adore the Love Apple, which serves fresh, locally sourced meals in a charming, intimate space.

Taos is a morning town—in the winter, everyone’s headed for the mountain—and that means there are great coffee and breakfast choices. Grab a latte or cappuccino at World Cup, a block off the Plaza. The Burrito Spot whips up hearty and delicious hand-held burritos. Order up luscious French Toast or Eggs Benedict at Gutiz. Or grab a pastry at Bearclaw or Farmhouse Cafe and Bakery.

 While Taos thrums with energy all year, winter is especially lively. Yuletide in Taos stages  events from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. Including tree lighting, torchlight parades, pop-up shops, and craft fairs, among other activities, the Yuletide activities bumps for more than a month. And the end of January brings the Taos Winter Wine Festival, showcasing world-class vintners and lots of great food as well.

Looking for a base camp? Taos has some great, and refreshingly affordable, options. El Monte Segrado provides well-appointed rooms and a heated covered pool just a few blocks from the Plaza. For a truly classic experience, try the Taos Inn, the historic adobe lodge with the coziest lounge in town. Other great choice5 include Hotel La Fonda, El Pueblo, and one of my favorites: the Sagebrush Inn, which has been around since 1929, which is full of character and a lively restaurant. And for a little more privacy, try the Old Taos Guesthouse Inn, which is equal parts cozy and comfy.

Wherever you wind up, you simply can’t spend time in Taos without absorbing its magic and spiritual energy. Add some snow and mountain adventure and it’s a recipe for lifelong memories.

History of Skiing in New Mexico

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New Book Released on New Mexico’s Ski History in Photos

New Mexico has one of the oldest ski cultures in the American West, going back to the miners of
the late 19th century who used skis as practical tools for accessing snow-covered terrain, and for
fun. Recreational skiing arose in the 1920s among students of the Los Alamos Ranch School,
and on the first developed ski runs in the 1930s in the Sandia Mountains near Albuquerque and
at Hyde Memorial State Park near Santa Fe.
The rich, fascinating and extensive history of the state’s ski scene has now been documented in a
just-released book from Arcadia Publishing, titled Skiing in New Mexico. The book is part of
their series titled “Images of America,” consisting of historic black and white photos run with
detailed, informative captions. It was compiled by two New Mexico natives and lifelong skiers,
seasoned ski journalist Daniel Gibson and veteran Sandia Peak Tram director Jay Blackwood.
Skiing in New Mexico includes 183 images, mostly photos, but also historic posters and other
graphic arts.
The images include perhaps the oldest image in existence of an American Indian on skis, a photo
taken circa 1900 of a Taos Pueblo Indian thought to be delivering mail to the mining community
of Twinning above Taos. It also includes a photo taken in 1896 of a woman on skis, wearing a
dress, taken in the Sandias, photos of the mining community of Twining that would later become
the base area for Taos Ski Valley, and other early images.
Photos of Los Alamos Ranch School students leading horses with skis lashed to them through
deep snow, the first skiing explorations of what would become the Santa Fe Ski Basin and
“backcountry” outings to Lake Peak, and photos of the first forays in the Sandias are also
included. The visual history of Taos Valley is amply illustrated, with numerous shots of Ernie
and Rhoda Blake, Jean Mayer, Dr. Al Rosen and other Taos founders. There’s also photos of
many other New Mexico ski pioneers like Kingsbury Pitcher (founder of Sierra Blanca, today’s
Ski Apache), Robert Nordhaus (founder of La Madera and the Sandia Peak Tram), the Abruzzo
family (long associated with both Sandia Peak and Ski Santa Fe) and many more.
The book retails for $24, and can be found in many local bookstores, in ski area gift shops, and
online book outlets, including Amazon. For additional details or to order a copy. More Information

Photo: This fine photo reveals the deck of the new Sierra Lodge at the Santa Fe Basin in the early 1950s. It looks east toward Lake Peak. The parking lot is where today’s Tesuque Peak and Millennium chairs begin, with both running up to the highest slopes seen here. At the base of the flagpole sits the ski school office. The first chairlift began just out the frame’s left edge, and ran up today’s slopes Slalom and Thunderbird. The ski area’s brochure for 1949-50 promised “skiers can choose between pleasant, easy-to-ski slopes or a number of fast, daring downhill runs from the top.” Graeme McGowan’s prediction for grand skiing here was finally a reality. (By Starr Jenkins for the USFS; courtesy Pitcher Family Collection.)



Skier Photo – Kingsbury “Pitch” Pitcher would schuss into the New Mexico ski scene after World War II, but here he’s seen as a young man racing from Stanford University in Sun Valley, Idaho in 1940. Born in Los Angeles. He told Marian Love in the Santa Fean Magazine of January-February 1980, “I learned to ski in the Sierras when I was ten years old. My skis were seven-foot boards with toe straps. It wasn’t a popular sport and ski clothes were an oddity. Once, when some friends and I went to a race, we stopped to get some food and the counterman asked, ‘Is youse guys acrobats?’” His grandfather was the famed Otto Mears, builder of the Million Dollar Highway in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, where Pitch spent his summers. (Courtesy Pitcher Family Collection.)

A Mining Town Strikes Adventure Gold

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Red River, NM

Red River might be New Mexico’s most authentic ski town. Tucked into a scenic river valley in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and surrounded by the Carson National Forest, winter stays cold and snowy. Lift-served skiing began in the 1950s, but these days Red River Ski & Summer Area is a full-blown ski resort, with seven lifts and 64 trails, a world-class ski school, and superior snowmaking. There’s a reason USA Today named it the top ski town in North America, declaring it the “perfect getaway for skiers of all ages.”

Originally built by miners (the local paper is the Red River Miner), this village with a full-time population of around 500 has retained a quaint feel while growing and polishing the things that matter—a quality mountain experience, good food, comfy lodging, and a fun atmosphere for the whole family. Activities abound throughout the season, but the action culminates at the end of February with Red River’s main event: the legendary Mardi Gras in the Mountains. Started in 1992 with support from the Chamber of Commerce, the weeklong event is an alpine version of New Orlean’s famous fete, albeit with a family friendly spin, including parades, costume contests, and a children’s ball. Interested visitors will want to book well in advance as this popular event always fills up and spills over.

You won’t be scrambling to make reservations at stuffy resort restaurants here; Red River is casual and welcoming. Sidle up to the bar, or grab a table, at the legendary Bull o’ the Woods Saloon—“the Bull,” as locals call it—which has been around since 1939, serving burgers and sandwiches, and featuring one of the best beer lists in town. For a more contemporary vibe, stop by the Red River Brewing Company, which opened in 2018. The brewery produces its own craft beer and serves up pit-smoked barbecue, among other tasty menu items. Want more variety? The chicken fried steak at Brett’s Bistro is a perennial crowd-pleaser; Anchovies Pizzaria does great pie; dive into filet mignon and a baked potato at Texas Red’s; or try the enchiladas and rellenos at the Sundance Restaurant.

Start your day of winter play with a hearty breakfast, like the plate-size pancakes, at Old Tymers Cafe. For a lighter bite, grab an espresso and pastry at the Major Bean Coffee and Sandwich Shop. Or try Steam Coffee Co. or Peak Espresso for your caffeine fix.

While the ski area is the main attraction—the lifts whisk you onto the slopes from the edge of town—the area also offers numerous diversions and side trips. Among the most notable is the Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area, a must for anyone interested in skinny skiing. The Enchanted Forest is one of the only dedicated nordic areas in the state, maintaining more than 20 miles of groomed skate and classic trails, nine miles of snowshoe track, and 3 miles of dog-friendly mixed-use terrain. For the truly adventurous, the Enchanted Forest also rents yurts—rigid tents with beds and wood stoves—for a true taste of winter glamping.

The Red River Sled Shed runs snowmobile tours to nearby Bobcat Pass and the surrounding area, offering views all the way to Colorado. Or, you can keep things close to town strolling the shops and galleries, including the Kenneth Wyatt Gallery and the Red River Museum of Fine Arts. Because Red River loves to host families, you’ll discover lots of kid-friendly entertainment around town, too. Every Saturday, staff from the ski area hold a torchlight parade, capped with fireworks. And live music is a staple almost every night, from local folk singers to traveling acts, like The Rocketz and David Graham and the Eskimo Brothers.

One of Red River’s best attributes is its affordability, especially for a ski town. And because the town is compact—just a mile long and a few blocks wide—and situated along the Red River, hotels, condos, and lodges all provide easy convenience to lifts, shops, and restaurants.

Try the Copper King Lodge or Three Bears Lodge for a rustic experience. Billing itself as the “only true ski-in, ski-out experience in Red River,” Copper King has one, two, and three bedroom units, some with full kitchens. At Three Bears, you’ll find cabin-style accommodations just steps from the chairlifts.

If you want a more European flavor, Sitzmark Lodge, in the heart of downtown, offers comfy rooms at a great value in a Tyrollean-style lodge. For those who skew toward familiar brands, the Best Western River’s Edge offers rooms for around $100 that are just a few steps from the water (and just a few more from the chairlifts). 

Wherever you settle in, you won’t be too far from the action. Whether it’s a full day of skiing and riding, a lively aprés experience, live music deep into the night, or all of the above, Red River provides.

A Day in The Life of a Sandia Peak Ski Patroller

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Have you ever heard the maxim, “You should love your job so much you’d do it for free”?

Well, that seems to apply to the ski patrollers at Sandia Peak Ski Resort, and it’s almost time to clock in.


There are two kinds of ski patrollers — Pro patrollers are usually employed on a full-time basis by a resort for an entire ski season. Volunteer patrollers dedicate their time for the love of skiing in addition to their day jobs, which makes sense at Sandia Peak, since they only open three days a week — the BEST three days of the week for the entire Sandia Peak Ski Patrol.

However much fun it is to spend your days on skis, being a ski patroller is serious business. Their most important responsibility is serving as first responders for any incidents, medical or otherwise, on the mountain. Typically, ski patrollers are trained to the National Ski Patrol’s (NSP) Outdoor Emergency Care certification, or they have Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) license. There are additional certifications that allow toboggan transport and avalanche mitigation, among other things. After a patroller gets their certifications, they participate in pre-season refresher courses every year on about 1/3 of the NSP book in addition to brushing up on basic skills (like splinting). Every three years, they have covered the course completely.


Long before the season starts, the Sandia team is up on the mountain practicing their lift evacuation skills, learn-ing medical protocol changes, and getting hands-on experience with new equipment. Kim Linder, a ski enthusiast who has been a patroller, OEC Instructor AND a ski instructor for more than 23 years, calls the day “On the Hill”, and she says it’s usually the first time everyone gets together in anticipation of the new season.


“We are really like one big family on and off the mountain,” she says. “It’s important that we work together like clockwork when the season is in swing, so we have a lot of respect and responsibility to one another.”
So what’s a day in the life of a Sandia Ski Patroller like? The 12-15 patrollers start the day by 8:30 before the lifts are open to the public. They all ride up and take different trails down, looking for debris that may have fallen during the night, signs that might need to be cleared after a new snowfall, and making sure boundary ropes are in place and visible.


Throughout the day, they take turns manning the upper and lower patrol rooms and constantly skiing the trails, making sure someone is always in the right place at the right time and able to respond as fast as possible to incidents.


At the end of the day, they all start together at the top and do an evening “sweep” looking for straggling skiers, clearing boundaries for the snowcats, and making notes of trail conditions. They meet at the bottom to account for everyone, and they call it a good day.


“The important thing for me, “says Kim,” is the opportunity to give back to the ski community and a sport that has given me so much joy throughout the years. I love to help people discover a passion for skiing and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for them.”


An off-season activity that is unique and critical to the operation of the Sandia Peak Ski Patrol is their sponsor-ship of the annual Ski Swap in Albuquerque every October. They are their own nonprofit, and they raise all of their own funds for new equipment and supplies exclusively through the Ski Swap. It’s an incredibly well-organized event where skiers can exchange or consign outgrown or unused equipment and clothing.


If spending your winter days on skis is your idea of a great job, you can find out more at the NSP website, and Sandia Peak is now taking applications for the 2021-22 season.

Red River, NM named BEST SKI TOWN 2021

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Beyond convenient access to the slopes, what makes the best ski town? For some, it’s having access to fantastic restaurants, bars, and shops. For others, it’s about great accommodations, a small-town vibe, or a historic atmosphere. To find the best ski towns for 2021, a panel of experts selected 20 nominees, then our readers voted for the 10 best.

Red River NM

Red River invites visitors to visit the “Ski Town of the Southwest” and take a skiing vacation in this community located in the Southern Rockies just north of Taos, New Mexico. Their ski schools offer learning experiences for everyone, and the ski area promises minimal lift lines and fresh powder that lasts days after a storm. With an average annual snowfall of over two hundred inches, over fifty trails for intermediate, expert, and beginners, and Saturday night torchlight parades and fireworks, Red River offers the perfect getaway for skiers of all ages and expertise.

The top 10 winners in the category Best Ski Town are as follows: 

  1. Red River, New Mexico
  2. North Conway, New Hampshire
  3. Rossland, British Columbia
  4. Stowe, Vermont
  5. Banff, Alberta
  6. Bethel, Maine
  7. Breckenridge, Colorado
  8. Salt Lake City, Utah
  9. Nelson, British Columbia
  10. Park City, Utah

Congratulations to all these winning towns!

Article – https://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-ski-town/

Best Ski Town (2021)

“Ski Town of the Southwest” named Best Ski Town

Photo courtesy of Town of Red River

Opening 2021-22 Season

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Tentative opening dates for all NM Ski Areas has been announced.

Angel Fire Resort – December 17, 2021

Pajarito – TBA

Red River Ski Area – Open

Sandia Peak Ski Area – TBA

Sipapu – Open

Ski Apache – TBA

Ski Santa Fe – Open

Taos – Open

ANNUAL SKI SWAP – PRESENTED BY SANDIA PEAK SKI PATROL

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DETAILS:

Friday Oct. 22nd – VIP Pre-sale
($20 per person, cash)
12/under free with paying adult
7 pm – 10 pm

Saturday Oct. 23rd – Pubic Sale
9am – 4pm

Sunday Oct. 24th – Public Sale
11 am – 4 pm

Location: Expo NM
300 San Pedro Dr NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108

GET MORE DETAILS

The best value, best prices, and selection on winter sports equipment anywhere….why?

Our sale is staffed by over 150 volunteers – this cuts down drastically on overhead costs.

We only invite vendors that share our belief that hard working NM families deserve the best prices.

We invite many different vendors with a wide variety of equipment to make sure you get what you need – We don’t just offer one company’s leftovers.

We are a true Swap, it is how we started – In addition to our thousands of new items you can always find great quality used equipment on consignment…and don’t forget to check in YOUR equipment on Friday.

We only charge 17% commission to our vendors, which is the lowest swap commissions in the entire country which helps them offer you the lowest prices you’ll find.

Over 17,000 items to choose from – you just won’t find this sea of equipment anywhere else!

Free admission for those on our email list to the Saturday and Sunday sales.

You’re not just supporting our many local vendors, you’re supporting our all volunteer, non-profit Ski Patrol.

Friday Night VIP Sale: $20 per person for entry

Originally open only to patrollers and those volunteering their time at the Swap, is now open to the public in exchange for a $20 per person donation (cash only) to our all volunteer non profit patrol at the door Friday night. Get your pick of the thousands of items on the floor before anyone else, and believe us, if you plan on buying gear, getting first pick is a great way to find exactly what you need.

Saturday and Sunday Public Sale: $2.00 per person for entry

Entry into the sale is $2.00 per person, giving you access to the sale floor as well as to representatives from your favorite ski areas. The Sunday super sale is where you may find further marked down prices on gear, but remember by Sunday the available stock will be drastically reduced.

Ski Hall of Fame Best of the Best 2021

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“BEST of the BEST” for the 2020-2021 Ski Season

Customer Service: Kaela Hawari, Taos Ski Valley
Kaela is a woman of many tasks and a master of them all. Through her job she touches many people at the resort and all leave with an incredibly positive impression. This year she was also the COVID manager.

Ski Patrol: Charles Becvarik, Ski Santa Fe
Safety is the number one priority at our resorts and during the pandemic it was even more vital.  Charles rose to the challenge and kept the ski patrol focused on the big picture.   

Mountain Operations: Paul Allen, Pajarito
is the winner in the Mountain Operations category. Mt. Operations is a huge job.  Paul has demonstrated experience, a team player while doing it safely and efficiently. He has added greatly to the guest experience.

Ski Instructor: Stevie Lund, Angel Fire 
Ski instructors are often the most visible employees at a resort, and the resort’s image greatly depends on these front-line instructors.  Stevie is an excellent example.

Customer Service Covid-19: Maya Lengerich, Angel Fire 
Is the face of the staff of the NM Ski industry as it relates to the COVID pandemic.  Her hard work and dedication was instrumental in keeping guests and employees safe at her ski resort.

Ski Hall of Fame Banquet

Saturday, October 23, 2021
Doors open at 5:30 PM
Cocktails at 6:00 PM
Banquet Dinner at 7:00 PM

Tickets
$60 per Person, $720 per Table of 12

Reserve Your Seats with Jessica Fox
Jessica@skinewmexico.com

*payment can be mailed ahead of time or collected the night of the event with cash or check.

The 2021 NMSHOF Banquet will be held at:
Sid Cutter Pilot’s Pavilion
4900 Balloon Fiesta Pkwy NE, 87113

Robin May – Ski Hall Of Fame Inductee

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Robin May of Angel Fire
Robin May was selected to be inducted into the 2021 New Mexico Ski Hall of Fame. Selection and Induction into the Hall of Fame is the most prestigious honor Ski New Mexico can bestow on someone.  Robin is a long-time cornerstone of the Angel Fire Ski Industry and a board member of several national boards. He is the Director of Skiing and a ski instructor at Angel Fire.

Robin May is a purebred, powder hound.  I like to joke he has snow running through his veins.  Anyone who has held a conversation with him for more than two minutes knows you’d better be prepared to talk skiing and strategies for growing the sport.  He has been a pioneer and leader in the New Mexico ski industry for over 40 years.  In addition to his role as Ski School Director for Angel Fire Resort, he is the President of the Professional Ski Instructors of America and American Association of Snowboard Instructors Rocky Mountain Division (PSIA RM AASI), Rocky Mountain Division Board Member to the National PSIA AASI (representing 32,000 members) and Vice Chair of Ski New Mexico.   He has served on both Boards for 10+ years.  He became certified in Canada in 1974 and the US in 1980.

Where it all began…Robin started skiing at the age of 2 in his native Canada.  He attained his first level of teaching certification at the age of 16.   His Father, a CSIA Certified Ski Instructor and military officer, was involved with the Canadian Ski Team so Robin and his sister began racing at an early age.  Through the 1970’s Robin competed in Europe, Canada and the US.  He skied at the University of British Columbia and was a ski instructor at Mt. Seymour BC, Manning Park and Whistler.  In the mid 1970’s, while still teaching, Robin entered his first of many professional freestyle events, competing at the Canadian National Championships.

Robin first came to New Mexico in 1976 to visit family.  While on vacation in Angel Fire, he did some instructing for then Director, Herbert Kofler.  The Land of Enchantment had him hooked and he continued to teach in Angel Fire as well as coach racing in Panorama, Purgatory, and Angel Fire Resort.  In the 1980’s he continued to pursue his passion for racing, competing in the Southwest Pro Tour, Peugeot and Audi Pro Tours. 

Robin was named Ski School Director at Angel Fire Resort from 1988-2000 and then again from 2009-present.  He was the Director of Skiing at Mountain High California from 2000-2002 and Eldora from 2002-2003. Robin also taught summers at El Colorado Chile.  

Robin’s love for skiing extends to his family.  He is married to Deborah Beauchamp May, Director of the Angel Fire Children’s Ski & Snowboard School PSIA III, and father to Elke May who is the Children’s Ski School Supervisor, PSIA II.

Ski NM Hall of Fame  Banquet

Saturday, October 23, 2021

Doors open at 5:30 PM

Cocktails at 6:00 PM

Banquet Dinner at 7:00 PM

Tickets

$60 per Person, $720 per Table of 12

Reserve Your Seats with Jessica Fox

Jessica@skinewmexico.com

*payment can be mailed ahead of time or collected the night of the event with cash or check.

Taos Air Is Back

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Fly to Taos from private terminals, which make the airport experience faster, easier, and simpler. Parking, check-in, and security are hassle-free, with no line-ups. Simply arrive at the terminal 30 minutes prior to departure, and fly direct to Taos!

  • Private flight experience out of private terminals which allows for check-in up to 30 minutes prior to departure 
  • Ground shuttle to Town of Taos or to Taos Ski Valley
  • No baggage fees for up to two bags 
  • 100% Carbon Offset air service

SUMMER SERVICE 

Service will be available to/from each destination 2 days a week starting July 1, 2021 through September 27, 2021.  
  

WINTER SERVICE  


Service will be available to/from each destination 3 days a week starting December 16, 2021 through April 4, 2022. 

SCHEDULED SERVICE

Non-Stop service between Taos, NM and:
Austin and Dallas,TX
Carlsbad-San Diego and Hawthorne-Los Angeles, CA 

“Visitors come to Taos to experience rich spiritual traditions, fine art, distinctive cuisine, and the raw, natural beauty of the landscape.” Joe Zvada, Director of Aviation for Taos Ski Valley Inc.

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PSIA Honors Tom Long

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Professional Ski Instructor Association Honors Tom Long, General Manager of Pajarito Mountain
With Distinguished Service Award

LOS ALAMOS, N.M.  –  The PSIA/AASI (Professional Ski Instructor Association/American Association of Snowboard Instructor) recently presented Tom Long, General Manager of Pajarito Mountain, with the Distinguished Service Award for his many contributions to ski teaching. Long recently attended a ceremony in Breckenridge, Colorado to receive his award. 

Long has been working in the ski industry since 1966, and has had a significant impact on the development of ski curriculum across the nation. His accomplishments include helping develop the PSIA/AASI three-tiered ski and snowboard instructor certification program across the country. He grew the program from just two levels, Associate Certified and Full Certified to a more inclusive program. The PSIA/AASI certification levels are now Level I Certification, Level II Certification and Level III Certification. In addition, Long has served as National Certification Chairperson, PSIA Board Member, President of PSIA/Rocky Mountain Division, Rocky Mountain Chief Examiner, and has worked for 32 years as an Examiner for Rocky Mountain and many national certification exams. Long is also a Lifetime Member of PSIA and was inducted into the New Mexico Ski Hall of Fame in 2009. For more information on Long’s biography, click here.

According to the PSIA website,“This award recognizes those who’ve made important contributions that have added to the success of PSIA-AASI. These candidates have displayed long-term commitment and dedication by providing educational programming support, or by contributing to group and/or PSIA-AASI National Team efforts that involve important national initiatives. Other examples of distinguished service may include demonstrating positive leadership skills, fostering connections with and between members, or having a willingness to mentor peers – both young and experienced. Members and non-members, including staff, vendors and industry partners, are eligible to receive this award.”

OLD CHAIRS, OLD MEMORIES

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03/10/2021

Old Chairs, Old Memories

| By Snowsports Journalist Daniel Gibson |

A fun, new, short film I ran across online, the Solomon-produced 12-minute documentary titled “The Chairlift,” got me thinking about these mechanical devices that are so essential to downhill skiing as we know it.

While self-powered backcountry skiing is growing by leaps and bounds, almost every skier or snowboarder first stoked their snow passions by riding chairlifts and skiing within developed areas. It is probably the single greatest invention related to skiing, and did more to popularize the sport than any other development.

James Curran created the first at Sun Valley, Idaho, for the 1936–37 season with financing by Averell Harriman, the former governor of New York. Curran, who never skied, was an engineer with Union Pacific Railroad, which then owned the fledgling ski area. The single-seaters were modified from banana conveyor systems built to load cargo ships in the tropics. The basic design remains in effect today. Mt. Tremblant in Canada installed that nation’s first chair in 1939, and Europe saw its first erected in Czechoslovakia in 1940. Aspen received its first chair in 1947, and Squaw Valley, California put up a double chair in 1949. The post-war American boom saw hundreds erected nationwide, and skiing as we know it began to emerge.

New Mexico’s First

The state’s first chairlift, erected in 1950 by Ernie Blake and company, and the Sierra Lodge behind it, at the former Santa Fe Ski Basin. Photo courtesy Ski Santa Fe. (Top image) The Kachina Basin Chair at Taos Ski Valley, a Poma-made quad with 1,201-foot vertical rise, on a starry night. Photo courtesy TSV.

Ernie Blake installed New Mexico’s first chair, 2,600 feet long, at the Santa Fe Ski Basin for the 1949–50 season. It was composed of abandoned mining cables picked up off the ground in Silverton, Colorado, and seats salvaged from B-24 bombers. The cables, forged in 1888, were made of Sheffield, England’s famous high-quality steel. With the rust knocked off, and the cables tested for strength, a chair-on-the-cheap was put up today’s Thunderbird to the current top of the quad chair. Ernie’s son, Mickey Blake, once told me that they had a lift operator who insisted on smoking at the summit terminal, and one day as he stood on the grounds of Wood-Gormley elementary school in downtown Santa Fe he watched as the top terminal blew up and burned. But the chairlift survived and went on to a long and noble life. It was retired in 1964, but one of its old seats now proudly hangs on the deck of Totemoff’s Lodge at mid-mountain.

I remember riding this chair, which was quite odd, as it had one cable that pulled it along while it rode on wheels over another fixed cable. It was known to bounce off the riding cable and dangle by the pull cable, and I always watched with some trepidation as it bounced over the lift towers. It was also a super-early detachable chair, which required two men to manhandle chairs on and off the moving cable.

There was an undeniable charm to these early double chairs. They were small, which meant you sat hip to hip, and many a romance was kindled on them. This was enhanced by the custom of filling all seats. The cry of “Single” launched lots of relationships. Getting plopped into a free seat next to a young member of the opposite sex meant some quality one-on-one time, because these chairs were sloooooooow.

Slow and Cold

Ski lift chairs at Pajarito.
Another busy powder day at Pajarito on its old two-seater Mother Chair, with 1,180 foot vertical gain. Photo by and courtesy of Daniel Gibson.

That was part of their charm, as they allowed one to slow down and have a long chat or observe the falling snow or the distant vistas. They also meant you could get really chilled on the ride up! I remember being with the younger brother of a good friend at Sandia Peak around 1966 and riding up into bitterly cold headwinds that often blew over the lip of the Crest and straight down the chairlift line. He was in tears by the time we reached the top and we had to duck into the old Summit House to thaw out.

Luckily I’ve never been stuck on a broken lift, and while I like to experience all phases of the ski life, that is one I hope never to experience. Getting people safely off stalled lifts takes hours and hours, and I’ve often looked at the terrain under me and wondered if I’d hang from the chair and drop if marooned.

Everyone has their favorite chairs; even within single ski areas you find people who only ride one chair or prefer it above all others. This mostly has to do with the runs one can reach from any particular chair, but some people grow very attached to the lift itself, and mourn their passing as larger and faster chairs replace them. There’s no denying the detachable high-speed lifts do allow you to get in a lot more skiing, but the close camaraderie that the old two or three-seaters guaranteed is often lacking today on the quads and six-packs, without a single word exchanged between parties.

New Mexico’s first two high-speeds were installed at Angel Fire, and were the only such lifts for many, many years. The Chile Express, launched in 1996, spans 2.5 miles and rises 2,060 feet. It is one of the longest in the country, and cut the ascent time to the summit on three different chairs from some 30 minutes to a dozen or so.

Free Entertainment Below

Tesuque Peak Chair at Ski Santa Fe
The Tesuque Peak Chair at Ski Santa Fe, a triple erected by Kingsbury “Pitch” Pitcher, Roger Pope, Pete Totemoff and others in 1993, climbs upwards into the white realm. It is still in use. Photo courtesy Ski Santa Fe.

Chairs have also have provided riders with lots of entertainment over the years. They often climb the steepest line on the mountain, and so provide a great stage for hot-doggers. I recall being inspired, and awed, by the skiers I saw as a teen while riding up Chair 1 at Taos Ski Valley over Al’s Run. If only I could ski like that, I thought. And actually the displays were a great way to observe and learn, and today I can ski it nonstop myself. The perch from above also delivered plenty of spectacular crashes, biffs, head plants and yard-sales displays to derisive hoots and hollers.

I also recall the liftees at TSV. In the early days they always seemed to be manned by members of Taos Pueblo, and added to the unique character of that special place. For a period, most lift “bumpers” were youngsters scoring that coveted free lift pass, but today I’m again seeing some older attendants, seeking a paycheck, I assume.

Few of the old doubles still spin. On busy days Ski Santa Fe still cranks up the Riblet Sierra, running 4,200 feet with an 850-foot vertical rise. Taos cut out a little section of Chair 1 and re-strung it as 7A, the short missing link that allows you to get back to the “Top of the World” and the frontside without returning to the base. Pajarito still has at least one of the oldies but goodies running, but they are an endangered species. Most have gone the way of the state’s newest high-speed detachable chair installed at Taos’ base in 2018. It eliminated lines there on all but the busiest days, and a set of lift towers up Al’s of another old double chair that was retired. But a slice of history and the intimacy old doubles engendered also was lost. Time marches on….

Holiday Storm Totals

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New Mexico just received an epic storm cycle! We are very excited to report new terrain opening daily and excellent conditions at all 8 New Mexico Ski Areas. View our snow report for full details and live look.

Angel Fire Resort

Last 7 days storm total – 20″

Pajarito Mountain

Last 7 days storm total – 8″

Red River Ski and Summer Area

Last 7 days storm total – 13″

Sandia Peak Ski Area

Last 7 days storm total – 10″

Sipapu Ski and Summer Area

Last 7 days storm total – 16″

Ski Apache

Last 7 days storm total – 19″

Ski Santa Fe

Last 7 days storm total – 33″

Taos Ski Valley

Last 7 days storm total – 18″

This Is New Mexico Skiing

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By Kristen Lummis – Brave Ski Mom

Driving to New Mexico to ski or snowboard can be a bit disorienting.

Coming from almost any direction, the landscape is truly enchanting, a mosaic of high plateaus, desert canyons and rocky monoliths. And while mountains punctuate the horizon in every direction, it’s easy to ask yourself, “where’s the skiing?”

For skiing in New Mexico is not obvious. Ski areas are not marked with expansive resort communities, nor approached along miles of multi-lane interstate. Instead, skiing in New Mexico is more subtle, with resorts and ski areas found at the top of roads winding up photogenic canyons or approached by tram, from the sky.

In so many ways, New Mexico serves up North America’s most distinctive skiing.

Built upon a vibrant blend of Native American, hispanic and anglo culture, as reflected in the state’s cuisine, history, and art, New Mexico attracts visitors year-round.

Come winter, the 47th state’s appeal is enhanced as snow blankets the high peaks and chairlift bullwheels begin turning at each of eight completely unique ski areas.

Like many visitors to the state, Taos Ski Valley first brought me and my family to New Mexico.

We’re suckers for classic ski resorts, those that combine unique history and world-class terrain. Taos Ski Valley has both of these elements, along with recent upgrades including a children’s center, base hotel and chairlifts.

If Taos is a classic ski resort, New Mexico is a classic ski and snowboard destination.

For New Mexico’s ski resorts are classic in the best sense, maintaining proud independence and homegrown charm, despite the pressures of a consolidating industry.

This independence makes New Mexico one of the best values in skiing, not only for families purchasing multiple lift tickets each day, but for all guests seeking to maximize the time they spend making turns versus the time they spend standing in line.

Within these pages, you’ll find mountain stats and travel information for all eight New Mexico ski areas. You’ll also learn what makes each of these resorts something special.

For example, you’ll discover that thebase of Ski Santa Fe, at 10,350’, is higher than most North American ski area summits, and that this elevation yields light, dry powder that lasts for days in the trees.

You’ll learn that Ski Apache, one of the southernmost ski destinations in the U.S. is owned and operated by the Mescalero Tribe of Apaches and has the state’s only gondola, along with nearby casino gambling.

Closer to Albuquerque, you’ll discover options at Sandia Peak ranging from mostly mellow alpine terrain to nearby nordic and snowshoe trails, all just a 15-minute tram ride from the city.

Looking for a low-key resort with lodging, dining, tubing, sledding, nordic skiing and New Mexico’s only night skiing? Look no further than Angel Fire Resort, a stop on the 84-mile “Enchanted Circle,” which also includes Taos Ski Valley and Red River Ski and Summer Area.

If it’s a classic ski town you’re after, check out Red River, a western mining settlement-turned-resort, that fills the bill with lifts rising from town and everything within walking, or skiing, distance.

As you learn more about skiing and snowboarding in New Mexico, you’ll also learn a few “secrets.” For example, while Northern New Mexico’s Sipapu is sometimes called a beginner’s hill, it actually has more black runs than green and the mountain’s all-day adult lift ticket costs less than $50.

Or maybe you’ll discover the biggest secret of all: Pajarito Mountain, once a “hush-hush” ski area open only to Cold War scientists working at Los Alamos. Pajarito is popular for its strong mix of intermediate and advanced terrain.

While these are just clues, tidbits thrown out to tempt you as you make your ski season plans, the reality is you can’t go wrong when you ski or ride New Mexico this winter.

Whether you arrive by car or fly into one of three gateway airports — Albuquerque, Santa Fe or Taos — a ski or snowboard trip to New Mexico will transcend your expectations with a potent combination of value, culture, and mountains you can call your own.

Pair your skiing and snowboarding with visits to ancient pueblos and world-class museums. Fill up on authentic New Mexican cuisine, washed down with a local beer or margarita. Soak in a hot springs or hike in a national monument. And then, ski and ride again.

This is New Mexico skiing.

This is New Mexico True.

2019-2020 Opening Dates

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The tentative opening dates for the 2019-20 ski season are below.  Please note these dates all subject to weather and snowfall amounts.  Things are looking really good! Thinks snow and keep dancing.

Sipapu –  First to open – November 22, 2019

Red River Ski & Summer Area – November 27, 2019

Ski Apache – November 27, 2019

Ski Santa Fe – November 28, 2019

Taos Ski Valley –  November 28, 2019

Pajarito Mountain  – November 29, 2019

Angel Fire – December 13, 2019

Sandia Peak – December 21, 2019

Hike to Wheeler Peak – Elevation 13,161

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There are two ways to reach the highest peak in New Mexico and we asked an expert to guide us through both assents. Our guide, Ray Honea, highly recommended that we start in Red River and arrange a shuttle to pick us up at the bottom of the Taos side. Plus the cold beer at the Bavarian Restaurant would be well earned.

Hike to Wheeler Peak From Red River NM

The hike to Wheeler Peak from Red River is a classic mountain hike. You will hike along streams and by lakes. You will cross mountain meadows with wild flowers, and above tree line there are views that stretch from the Sandias in the south to the 14,000 foot peaks of southern Colorado to the north. But the reward is the summit, the highest point in New Mexico.

The trailhead is easy to find. Go through the mountain town of Red River toward the upper valley of Red River. Where the pavement ends turn right on a gravel road marked for Middle Fork Lake. Park in the designated parking lot and hit the trail. Go through a locked gate and hike up the road. Four-wheel drive vehicles used to be allowed on this trail, but due to washouts and erosion they are now banned. When you get to the second locked gate hang a left and cross a footbridge and follow the middle fork of the Red River. You can either follow the winding road up or you can hug the river and follow the trail. The trail along the river is steeper and shorter. After awhile you come to a crossing and follow the old road to Middle Fork Lake. This is a great place for your first rest stop. It’s a beautiful mountain lake at the base of the peaks and great trout fishing, too.

Continuing on to Wheeler, cross the small stream coming out of the lake and follow a trail that heads south, up and away from the lake. Soon you drop into another drainage and follow this 2 miles until you come to a trail coming from the right. This trail comes from Taos Ski Valley through Bull of the Woods. Take a left on this established trail and soon you will enter La Cal Basin, a beautiful mountain meadow above tree line. Up ahead you can see the peaks laid out in the distance: Frazer, Walter, and finally Wheeler. It seems to take forever to cross the basin so just enjoy the views and the wild flowers if you’re hiking in the summer.

Finally you climb to the ridge that connects the peaks. Great views unfold as you hike up and over MI. Frazer then MI. Walter and then the final push to Wheeler Peak Sign in, take some pictures, have some lunch and enjoy the view. If you picked a perfect day hang out and enjoy the 360 views: Kachina Peak and Williams Lake to the west, Lake Fork Peak and Old Mike to the south,

Baldy and Touch Me Not are to the east, Gold Hill and the Latir peaks to the north.

The hike to Wheeler thru Red River is 16 miles round trip. Elevation gain: 3161, Wheeler 13,161– trailhead 10,000. A tough, full day of hiking but ample rewards along the trail to make it memorable.

For more information on hiking from the Taos side click here.

Coming To A Close, But Stay In Touch

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This year, we’ve been beyond lucky to enjoy one of the best winters in New Mexico history. We’re closing out the season with 60+ inch bases at several resorts and fun events planned to enjoy as the season comes to an end.

The true mountain-lovers know that ski areas can be enjoyed all year long, with hiking, mountain biking, ATV riding, sightseeing from the lifts, and more. If you want to stay in touch with us, there are plenty of ways!

 

Follow us on Facebook

Want to see updates about the first snow or fun events at New Mexico Ski areas? Like our page on Facebook to stay in touch. We promise you’ll enjoy seeing us on your timeline!

 

Check us out on Instagram

Want scenic views from mountaintops and crowdsourced photos from people just like you enjoying all New Mexico has to offer? Follow us at @skinewmexico, and search our hashtag, #skinewmexico.

 

Tweet with us

If keeping it simple with 280 characters or less is your jam, tweet at @skinewmexico on Twitter. We love hearing from you and chatting about New Mexico Ski Areas!

 

Flip through the Ski New Mexico Magazine

Each year, we produce a magazine with stunning photos from the ski season, tips to enjoy the mountains during the spring, summer, and fall, and stories from across New Mexico. Reserve a copy of the 2019-2020 magazine to see the magic!

 

Read our blog

One of the best ways to stay in touch is to follow our blog. If you scroll through the page, you’ll find travel tips, upcoming events, stories from the slopes, and more.

 

Sign up for the Snow Report

Want information about New Mexico Ski Areas and blog posts delivered right to your email? Visit skinewmexico.com, scroll to the bottom, and sign up for our email newsletter. We’ll reach out to keep you in the loop!

 

We hope you’ll find a way to stay in touch. Thank you for being a part of an incredible season. We can’t wait to see you on the slopes again next year!

The Season is Not Over Yet

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Thanks to record snowfalls, New Mexico Ski areas are ringing in spring with fun events and an extra week of skiing! Some areas are reporting more than 250 inches of snow and have even had some late season storms. What a better way to celebrate the extended season than with some pond skimming?

Ski Areas with Extended Openings

Pajarito

Open daily until March 24, and on weekends until April 7.

Sipapu

Open daily until March 24, and on weekends until April 7.

Taos Ski Valley

Open daily through April 14.

Ski Santa Fe

Open daily through April 14.

February 23 Storm Totals!

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We had an great storm this last week.  The conditions are amazing at all 8 New Mexico ski areas.  Make plans to get out and enjoy the skiing in New Mexico this winter!  It Amazing!

Totals reflect a 7 day total starting February 18, 2019

Angel Fire Resort  – 14″

Pajarito – 31″

Red River Ski and Summer Area – 32″

Sandia Peak – 10″

Ski Santa Fe – 48″

Sipapu Ski & Summer Area – 25″

Ski Apache – 8″

Taos Ski Valley – 34″

 

We Love the Ladies!

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I’ve always wanted to have best girl friends like from Sex and the City, GIRLS, or The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. A group of gals who will cheer me on, laugh with me, comfort me while I cry, and experience the highs and lows of life by my side! Now, a few events in New Mexico are bringing women together for a time of fun and friendship on the slopes! Don’t miss out on this chance to get away, go skiing, and meet some new friends.

Women’s Week

Taos Ski Valley – Feb. 10-15

Imagine the best week ever and add cocktails. Experience lessons taught by women trained in the best techniques for women skiers. You’ll get video analysis to track your improvements, a talk on how women’s anatomy affects skiing and equipment choices, and discounts from local shops. Learn More

Burton Women’s Snowboard Camp

Ski Santa Fe – Feb. 16-17

Women of every level are welcome to learn from our female instructors. In small groups, you’ll be able to work on turns or practice new park tricks, using free demo boards provided by Burton! Learn More

The Women’s Clinic

Pajarito Mountain – Thursdays

Enjoy Pajarito’s free women’s clinic, where women can improve their skills, learn more about skiing styles and equipment, and discover strength-training exercises to do in the off season. The clinic takes place each Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. All you need to bring is your equipment and lift ticket. Learn More

 

Visit the websites linked above to learn more about the events and to register. This is a great opportunity for the solo female traveler or for a group of friends. You’ll end your time with new friends, improved skills, and great memories.

KOAT Learn to Ski 2019

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More than 7,000 children have benefited from the KOAT Kids Learn to Ski & Snowboard program, which is now entering its sixth year. For $50 per day, children ages 6 to 12 receive a lesson, a ski lift ticket and all equipment rentals. It’s an affordable way for children to learn a winter sport. This program is for first-time beginners. The program starts on Jan. 1, 2019, and runs through Jan. 31, 2019.

Reservations are required and are being taken from Jan. 2, 2019, through Jan. 31, 2019. Those wanting to make a reservation must contact the desired resort directly.

Participating resorts:

Angel Fire Resort: 1-844-218-4107

Pajarito Mountain: 505-662-5725

Red River Ski Area: 575-754-2223, ext. 602

Sandia Peak Ski Area: 505-242-9052

Sipapu Ski Resort: 800-587-2240

Ski Apache: 575-464-3643

Ski Santa Fe: 505-992-5084

Taos Ski Valley: 575-776-2291

How to Simplify Your Ski Trip

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There’s a reason why people say they need a day or two to unwind from vacation. Going on a trip with (or without) family can be a stressful experience. Luckily, modern technology and careful planning can simplify your vacation and make it more enjoyable for everyone involved! Here are our top 10 tips to simplify and enjoy your time on the mountain.

Book ahead of time

Uncomplicating your vacation starts before you ever leave the house. Instead of winging it when you arrive at your destination, book your lift tickets, lessons, childcare, rentals, and other services ahead of time. This will save you so much time waiting in line and making decisions while you could be enjoying your time on the slopes.

Get your rentals delivered

Many vendors, like Sitzmark Sports and Lodge in Red River, are now delivering ski rentals. This can be especially helpful for families, so do you don’t have to load up the entire group, just to pick up skis and snowboards. Look into options before your trip and see what is available!

Try out demos

Save the hassle of packing your skis and boards and driving them all the way from home. Instead, try out the latest demo gear right on the mountain. You might just find a something new you can’t live without!

Plan for food delivery

Grocery pickup and delivery has been a life-changer. Skip the trip to the grocery store or restaurant after a long day, and have the items you need delivered. Bonus, this could save you the necessity of getting a rental car or hauling groceries on public transit if you’re in a more urban area.

Pack snacks

Want to avoid a toddler meltdown, or (let’s face it) a hangry fight on the mountain? Put some of that food you just had delivered into a zip lock bag and bring it with you! Don’t worry, if you forget, New Mexico resorts have great dining options nearby.

Take the shuttle

If you’ve flown in on Taos Air or just want to leave the car at the hotel, take the local shuttle to the lifts. This can save the headache of using a rental vehicle or taking to the roads after a snowstorm. Plus, local transit is usually set up to accommodate skis and boards much better than your vehicle!

Make meetups easier

Use the technology you have to simplify meetups. Set alarms and share location pins to make finding each other and staying in touch simpler. (Remember to keep your tech close to your body so it stays warm enough and to have it in a waterproof case.)

Use on-site childcare

Many New Mexico ski areas have a childcare center with trained staff to watch your littles. Spend some time just the two of you, knowing your children are well taken care of.

Take lessons

Enrolling in lessons, even if you’re more experienced, can be a great way to improve your time. Not only will you see improvement, you’ll generally have quicker access to the lifts! Putting your children in ski school is a great way to make sure they’re taken care of while you and your partner enjoy the slopes, child-free.

Stay at the lodge

One of the best things you can do to spend more time skiing and less time driving is to stay right on site. Oftentimes, you can save on your trip by booking a package with rentals, lessons, and lift tickets before you go!

 

We can’t wait to see you on your next trip to New Mexico. What are your best tips for simplifying your ski trip? Comment below and let us know!

4 Areas Opening this Week

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The 2018-19 New Mexico ski season is shaping up to be a memorable one. Between upgrades at the ski areas and the El Nino winter, visitors can expect extra snow, both natural and manmade. As an added bonus, we will see an extra method of travel to some of our favorite ski areas. While on the slopes, keep a lookout for neat new attractions. Pack your bags and bring your camera. You’ll want to remember this.

Angel Fire Resort

Angel Fire Resort management knows how much you love trails like Headin’ Home and Hallelujah, and they want you to be able to hit the slopes as long as possible. New snowmaking equipment at the resort will allow for more, efficient snowmaking, resulting in better coverages. The additional equipment will allow the resort to open more runs earlier in the season.

Red River Ski Area

You can expect more snow, smoother snow, and wider trails next time you visit Red River Ski Area. There are now 14 extra snow guns operating at increased efficiency, as well as a PistenBully Park Pro 400 groomer to make sure the snow is as good as possible. The team has also been busy with trail widening and grading projects across the mountain!

Sandia Peak

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable experience this spring. Sandia Peak Ski Area will be opening a brand-new mountain top restaurant. The venue is currently being built at the top of the peak. When opened, it can be accessed via Sandia Peak Tramway or by lifts 2 and 3. Stay tuned to see when you can enjoy amazing views and fine dining.

Taos Ski Valley

Taos Air just launched non-stop service from both Austin and Dallas to Taos, getting you to the Rockies in as little as two hours. Make your reservations now to fly privately for the price of a standard commercial airline ticket and spend more time doing what you came to do. During your time on the slopes, you will be able to enjoy the new high-speed quad lift at Lift 1 and ski over snow made from Taos Ski Valley’s new snow guns. Your little ones will be well taken care of at the Children’s Center which just received an $8-millon worth of improvements!

With so many new features being added each year, it’s easy to get excited for the upcoming ski season! Which upgrades are you most looking forward to? Comment below and let us know!

Official Opening Dates

The opening dates for the 2018-19 ski season are now official. With the recent snowfall giving areas 10”- 20” of natural snow, things are looking really good! Thinks snow and keep dancing.

Sipapu – November 16, 2018

Red River Ski & Summer Area – November 21, 2018

Ski Santa Fe – November 22, 2018

Taos Ski Valley – November 22, 2018

Ski Apache – December 7, 2018

Angel Fire – December 14, 2018

Pajarito Mountain – December 21, 2018

Sandia Peak – December 22, 2018

Sipapu Opens Nov. 16

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The First Ski Area in New Mexico Opens Early for the Season.

Sipapu Kicks Off Ski Season Next Friday!

Because of Sipapu Ski Resort’s state-of-the-art snowmaking system, combined with the help of Mother Nature, Sipapu will open on Friday, Nov. 16 — earlier than scheduled.  This will be the 16th consecutive year that Sipapu is the first ski area in New Mexico to open for the season.

“Sipapu was able to bump up its opening day to Nov. 16 due to the recent snowfall, plus cold temperatures and extremely productive snowmaking efforts,”   stated John Paul Bradley, mountain manager of Sipapu Ski Resort. “I’ve been pleasantly surprised that the overnight lows have proven to be colder than initially forecast, and I’m impressed with the product Sipapu’s team has been able to produce.”

On opening day, Lift 5 will be open from 9am to 4pm, serving the intermediate trail, Thumper, plus a terrain park feature. On Saturday, Nov. 17, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. representatives will be on the mountain, handing out giveaways and serving up samples to guests ages 21 and older.  

“We’re excited to kick off ski season earlier than anticipated,” stated Bradley.  “Sipapu’s looking forward to a fantastic winter ski season!”

Sipapu will be open for 10 days during Thanksgiving week through Sunday, Nov. 25.  The resort will then temporarily suspend operations Monday, Nov. 26 through Thursday, Nov. 29 to allow its snowmaking and grooming team to operate at maximum capacity throughout the week.  Sipapu will begin daily operations on Friday, Nov. 30.   

New this season!  Every child ages 10 and younger receives a FREE Power Kids Season Pass, which provides unlimited, direct-to-lift access with no blackout dates to Sipapu, Purgatory Resort, Pajarito Mountain, Arizona Snowbowl, and Hesperus Ski Area. Sipapu also offers a free season pass for those in fifth grade, which includes unlimited access to Sipapu, Pajarito, and Hesperus Ski Area near Durango.

2018-19 New Mexico True Pass

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2018-19 Ski New Mexico True Pass – $300

SOLD OUT FOR 2018-19

PRICE: $300
PASSES: 2 All-Day Adult Lift Tickets at every ski area in NM
VALID SKI AREAS: Angel Fire, Pajarito, Red River, Sandia Peak, Sipapu, Ski Santa Fe, Ski Apache and Taos
REDEEM: Tickets redeemed at ski area ticket window
BLACKOUT DATES: 12/26/18 to 1/2/19  and 3/9 to 3/17 2018

Card is transferable and tickets may be used on the same day at the same ski area.

SOLD OUT

For questions please contact us

 

2018-19 Opening Dates

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The tentative opening dates for the 2018-19 ski season are below.  Please note these dates all subject to weather and snowfall amounts.  Things are looking really good! Thinks snow and keep dancing.

Sipapu –  First to open – November 10, 2018

Red River Ski & Summer Area – November 21, 2018

Ski Apache – November 21, 2018

Ski Santa Fe – November 22, 2018

Taos Ski Valley –  November 22, 2018

Pajarito Mountain  – November 22, 2018

Angel Fire – December 14, 2018

Sandia Peak – December 22, 2018

Closing Days for 2018 Season

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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.

Spring Mountain Fun

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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!

Beginners: Start Here

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Learning a new sport—or re-learning if you haven’t been in a while—can seem daunting. Being prepared and knowing your limits are vital to having a fun time on the slopes. Luckily, New Mexico ski areas have great amenities for just this reason!

Lessons

Getting taught by trained professionals is a game changer. Ski schools throughout the state are equipped to teach people of all ages and abilities. Lessons can help you be more confident in your skills, enjoy the sport more safely, and have more fun during your vacation! (Be sure to call ahead and book your lessons—they fill up fast!)

Green Trails

Sliding down the same hill all day can get boring, but check out green and blue trails on the mountain. New Mexico ski areas have several to choose from, so you can explore the mountain on a trail that matches your comfort level. A few of our favorites are Angel Fire Resort’s Headin’ Home, which starts at the summit and goes all the way to the base, Re-run at Red River Ski Area, or the Apache Bowl at Ski Apache!

Helmet Rentals

Part of skiing and snowboarding safely is wearing the proper equipment! Waterproof clothing keeps you from getting soaked when you fall down (maybe more than once if you’re learning), multiple layers protect you from frostbite and hypothermia, and helmets guard against head injuries. Especially as a beginner, it’s important to create a safe learning environment. Don’t have a helmet of your own? Check out some of the rental shops nearby and pick one up.

Rest Stops

New Mexico ski areas often have great places for a rest stop, from on-slope shops like the Yert at Ski Apache, or a beautiful picnic area at Pajarito Mountain. Many of the green and blue trails are wide enough to give everyone plenty of space for resting and skiing or snowboarding. Just make sure you’re out of the way and visible to others before you stop.

Safety Code

Before your trip, it’s always a great idea to review some of the ski area’s policies! Angel Fire Resort has a great, informative resource online about being safe on the mountain. It covers everything from proper lift procedure to preparing for UV exposure. There are also safety resources made available from other ski areas, like these from Ski Santa Fe, Ski Apache, Red River Ski Area, and Taos Ski Valley.

You’re going to love your ski trip, and with the right preparation, you might just find your new favorite sport or hobby. Let us know what you think of the slopes or if you have any questions!

3 Reason We Love Angel Fire

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I’m on a lift, fresh mountain air filling my lungs and nipping at my cheeks. My eyes are bright, watching the powder pass beneath me, itching to feel it slide under my feet. I’m getting ready to have the adventure of a lifetime at Angel Fire Resort. Here are three reasons you should too.

Family Friendly

Glancing over the mountain, you see people of all ages and skill-levels. From tots hanging on to the instructor for dear life to experts shredding down the slope, anyone can claim their own patch of snow and feel right at home

Magic Carpet Ride

Whether you’re learning to ski or snowboard or just wanting to go tubing, the magic carpet at Angel Fire is nothing less than magical. For first-timers it takes the stress out of getting on—and off—the lifts right away, and for tubers it saves the hike at 8,500+ feet above sea level! Plus, if you haven’t been skiing in a while and feel rusty, the magic carpet is a great way to ease back into the sport.

Night Skiing

If you want to make the most of your weekend, or just want a change in scenery, night skiing at Angel Fire is the perfect way to continue the adventure. At night, Angel Fire lights up the mountain and cranks the music, making for a night to remember. As the only New Mexico ski area offering night skiing, Angel Fire is a perfect stop for all night owls!

Whether you’re looking for well-groomed slopes, convenient amenities, and fun on-mountain activities, prepare to fall in love with Angel Fire Resort. Already been there? Comment below and let me know what makes Angel Fire special to you!

Moving On Up – Taos Ski Valley

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For the last several months, Taos Ski Valley visitors have been able to enjoy the improvements made over the last year. This season marks the updated learning area, the renovated children’s center, the ski area’s push for sustainability, and the tenth year of snowboarding at Taos.

Strawberry Hill, Taos’s beginner area, was reshaped to offer five beginner sections, allowing for a smooth progression for novice skiers and riders. With each section gradually increasing slopes, beginners can gain skills with confidence. The implementation of terrain-based learning naturally controls their speed, providing a more fun and efficient on-snow experience.

Taos’s dedication to children and families is further evidenced by renovations to the children’s center. Geared to make drop-offs and pick-ups simpler, there is a new check-in area, as well as updated lounge areas for families to enjoy.

From the children’s center, a new pulse gondola takes guests right to the lifts for more time spent on the slopes. Now, snowboarders and skiers alike can feel confident they are patrons at a ski area leading efforts in making snow sports more environmentally friendly.

Taos will enhance the industry’s first-and-only environmental and social responsibility effort, B-Corp Certification, with new steps to eliminate carbon emissions and waste while improving forest health.

From March 17 to 19, Taos Ski Valley will celebrate its 10th year welcoming snowboarders to the mountain. To learn more about the weekend’s events and plan a trip to Taos to check out the improvements for yourself, visit https://www.taosskivalley.com/.

Spring Break’n in New Mexico

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Whether you’re taking a break from college courses, high school homework, or day-job drudgery, New Mexico is the way to go. In addition to diverse cuisine and beautiful scenery, New Mexico offers some of the best ski areas in the country, and at unbeatable prices.

Angel Fire Resort is celebrating spring break with several discounts, including free night skiing with same-day lift ticket, lodging discounts for New Mexico residents, and 25% off lift tickets March 1-8.

“Angel Fire is a year-round Family-Friendly Resort, and Spring Break is no exception to that,” said Ruth Worden, Angel Fire Resort digital media manager. “Our extensive Children’s Ski School Programs and affordable lodging options makes Angel Fire the ideal family destination.”

There will also be family-friendly events at Angel Fire during spring break, like s’mores roasting, movie nights, and more, Worden said.

Pajarito Mountain regularly offers discounts to its patrons like half-off lift tickets for military members or free lift tickets for fourth-graders, fifth-graders, children under seven, and people 70 years and older.

For weekend trip or a vacation spanning all of spring break, Ski Apache offers discounted weekday lessons so the entire family can spend the trip learning or developing their skills together.

Take in Albuquerque along with the mountains at Sandia Peak and Tramway. With beautifully situated slopes, you can spend the day skiing and the evening exploring Albuquerque! Sandia offers several discounts for groups as well as visitors who have a Peak Plus card.

Ski Santa Fe offers the best of both worlds—sublime skiing and proximity to Santa Fe, a premier cultural destination. Take advantage of the Peak Plus card or Six Pack of Fun to save on Spring Break travel.

Check out a torchlight parade in Red River March 3, 10, or 17 to see local skiers and snowboarders put on a fiery, fireworks display. The small-town atmosphere, fun events, and great deals on lift tickets will have you wishing you could stay longer than spring break!

Ian McPherson, a Sipapu representative, said resort employees have been working to make this spring break enjoyable for people of all ages, budgets skill levels and interests.

“With lodging deals, ticket specials, free lessons, and even free lift tickets, spring break at Sipapu is more affordable than ever,” McPherson said. “Sipapu will have plenty of snow and open terrain with something for everyone. There are also two terrain parks for ski and snowboarders who like to stunt!”

Along with great deals, there are several events in the area to enjoy, McPherson said, including Saturday open mic nights at Riverside Café and the 15th Annual Cardboard Derby March 10, where guests build their own sleds using cardboard, duct tape, string or twine, and paint. Contestants then slide down the hill, competing for awesome prizes!

“The next weekend, March 17th, is the Pond Skimming Contest,” McPherson said. “Skiers and boarders test their balance and bravery—and try to stay dry—as they race down the mountain and attempt to “skim” across our skimming pond.”

With spring break right around the corner, it’s time to plan a vacation to celebrate the coming of spring and to soak in some of the best skiing and snowboarding New Mexico has to offer. Comment below to let us know where you’re planning to go for spring break. We hope to see you on the slopes!

Skiing New Mexico – Daniel Gibson

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New Book Celebrates New Mexico’s Snow Sports

The University of New Mexico Press recently released Skiing New Mexico: A Guide to Snow Sports in the Land of Enchantment. It is the first-ever comprehensive profile of the state’s alpine, Nordic and backcountry skiing.

The 130-page book provides a New Mexico-born and -raised insider’s guide to skiing and snowboarding, with thousands of helpful details on the state’s downhill ski resorts and its diverse cross-country and backcountry venues, as well as hundreds of personal tips for getting the most out of skiing or snowboarding in the state.

Each ski area is profiled in its own chapter, with suggestions on best runs, from outstanding powder trails and tree skiing to top intermediate runs, mogul runs, beginner slopes and steeps.

The ski area profiles include notes on what makes each resort distinct, plus some history on the area and the pioneers of the sport there. Also listed are the author’s favorite places to stay and eat at each ski area or at the nearest town or city, and suggestions for activities off the slopes.

The book includes a foreword by Jean Mayer, who helped launch Taos Ski Valley in the 1950s. He is the owner/director of Taos’ famed Hotel St. Bernard and technical director of the resort’s prestigious ski school. The book’s author, Daniel Gibson, has written a weekly snow sports column, “Snow Trax,” for the past 25 years and grew up here skiing.

Skiing New Mexico also presents more than 65 images, both historic and current, that reveal the beauty, unique attributes, excitement and fun of the sport in New Mexico. The book is available in regional bookstores and ordered online; e-book versions can be obtained from Amazon, Google, Apple and Barnes & Noble.

Here are some excerpts:

Pajarito
Amazing Fact: The men and women who built the world’s first nuclear weapons helped popularize skiing here in the 1940s.

Red River

Amazing Fact: Brian “Cross Fire” Marshall set a skiing record here in 1990, staying on his planks for an amazing 96 hours straight.

The Bottom Line: Red River, where “Mountain Meets Main Street,” is a true ski town. Rustically western, it is beloved by Texas visitors for its ambiance and lots of tame terrain. On a powder day, you’ll have entire runs to yourself and can walk or even ski to almost all lodging.

Sandia Peak

Amazing Facts: One of the oldest ski areas in the West, Sandia Peak follows predecessor La Madera, which was launched in 1936. It is reached today directly from Albuquerque via a world engineering marvel, the Sandia Peak Tramway.

The Bottom Line: With perhaps the fastest access to skiing of any major city in the nation, via the spectacular Sandia Peak Tramway, this small-scale, modestly pitched mountain is a great, quick getaway.

Sipapu

Amazing Facts: Sipapu is usually the first ski area in the state to open each winter.

Ski Apache

Amazing Facts: Ski Apache is one of only two ski areas in the nation owned by an Indian tribe, in this case the Mescalero Apaches. It operates one of the world’s longest ziplines.

Ski Santa Fe

Amazing Fact: It has North America’s fifth-highest base elevation: 10,350 feet.

Taos Ski Valley

Amazing Facts: Taos helped pioneer in-bound extreme skiing in the United States. The original road to the ski area had more than a dozen water-level crossings of the Río Hondo.

 

Sipapu February Fun Fest

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For a snow castle, an on-mountain treasure hunt, prizes, and more, make a trip to Sipapu, New Mexico, for February Fun Fest. Lasting from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 18, this event ensures a good time for family members of all ages!

“February Fun Fest is an event that everyone can enjoy for free,” said Sipapu representative Ian McPherson. “Many of our guests may also qualify for a free lift ticket if they are looking to some skiing while enjoying the February Fun Fest. Kids 7 and under, fourth- and fifth-graders, and guests ages 40, 60 and 70+ all ski free at Sipapu.”

One of the main attraction sat February Fun Fest is an enormous snow castle, the only of its kind in New Mexico.

“First, mountain crews use snow machines to create a large snow pile,” McPherson said. “Once the snow pile is created, it takes our Mountain Crew about 40 hours to shape the castle into the structure guests will be able to play on. It typically takes a total of 10 days from start to finish.”

Along with the snow castle, an on-mountain treasure hunt is another activity for guests to take part in.

Guests search the mountain for laminated letters, and when they can spell ‘clown,’ they bring the letters to the ski school in exchange for a prize,” McPherson said.

February Fun Fest is the perfect chance to get to the mountains, ski or snowboard, and spend quality time with family.

Sipapu also has many other fun events such as Ski with a Ranger Fridays, Open Mic Nights, Love on the Lift, Ski Bike Rally, Moonlight Hikes and much more! Check out the calendar for more events!

Riding the Rails

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Are you looking for a little adventure on the mountain this winter? This is the season to hone your skills and have a some fun in the terrain park at the same time.  Terrain parks are quickly becoming one of the most popular areas on the mountain and a great way to challenge yourself.  It’s not uncommon for skiers to spend much of the day in the park, riding the features and making a quick lap to ride them again. Riding features takes practice, balance and confidence so here are a couple of quick tips.

Learn to ski backwards

Learn to be comfortable skiing both forward and backward. Twin tip skis make skiing backward much easier. When learning to ski backward, it is best to start slowly, on a lower angle slope. Practice looking over your shoulder and keeping your head on a swivel; you want to be able to see features both behind you and in front of of you.

Stick the landing

Practice jumping and landing. When riding features in the park, you will have to jump on to them and jump off them. Look for small jumps on the mountain to practice getting into the air. Moguls are a great place to learn the balance needed to land a jump.

Start small

Learn the basics in the beginner park. Many resorts will have multiple terrain parks, one geared toward beginners and one geared toward experts. The beginner parks will have features closer to the ground to minimize the pain of falling. the key to effective learning is to approach the features with confidence but to go at half speed. Don’t try to go full out on your first terrain park feature. Get a feel for sliding along the rail or table. When approaching a feature, eyeball where you want to land on it. Aim for that spot so that you will land on it at the midpoint of your ski boot to maximize your balance. Progress slowly and get comfortable sliding on the features before trying more advanced tricks like grabbing your skis before landing on the feature you are riding.

Make some new friends

Watch the advanced riders to see what kinds of tricks they like to do. Terrain parks can be great for socializing with skiers of different ability levels. Watching better skiers and talking to them can help you pick up tips and tricks faster than trying to learn them on your own.

Take a lesson

Consider taking a lesson. Most mountains have ski school programs that will help you learn all the techniques required for riding in a terrain park, from skiing backward to jumping to riding rails. Learning from an experienced instructor can greatly quicken your learning curve. Sipapu Ski Resort has lessons available and is a great place to learn.

Have fun out there and don’t forget to tag us in our epic photos, videos and wipeouts. #howiskinmtrue

Kid Care and Focused Learning

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Remember when you could pack up for a day on the slopes without taking shifts to watch the kids or hoping the babysitter wouldn’t fall through? We know you love your kids, and Ski New Mexico does too. That’s why ski areas across the state have created top-notch childcare programs. Here’s a list of resorts that offer childcare and lessons so the whole family can enjoy a trip to the mountains.

Ski Santa Fe

At Ski Santa Fe, there is a special area just for children! At Chipmunk Corner, they can learn to ski or ride in a secluded space away from the hustle and bustle of the main slopes. Snow Play is a special service where children can play indoor and outdoor games for a full or half day under staff care. In addition to Snow Play and Chipmunk Corner, Ski Santa Fe also has a nursery and daycare where children ages 3 months to three years can stay in a safe, nurturing environment while you shred the powder!

Taos Ski Valley

With children’s lessons, Snowsport Weeks, and childcare, Taos has plenty of options to meet your family’s needs. All you have to do is call in advance and reserve your children’s spots! There are multiple packages to choose from, from half-day care to four-week sessions. Plus, Strawberry Hill has been renovated this year and is even better for your young ones.

“Our staff worked very hard over the summer to take the existing terrain and completely reshape it to be even more conducive to beginner skiers and snowboarders,” said Dash Hegeman, Taos Ski Valley marketing manager. “There are now essentially five different sections of Strawberry Hill that will allow for a smooth learning progression as new skiers and riders move from section to section as the increase their comfort level and skillset.”

With the addition of a pulse gondola, it is easy to drop your children off and start your day skiing!

“Our new pedestrian gondola gives parents easy access to and from the Resort Plaza and the Children’s Center,” Hegeman said. “The days of needing to walk kids along the bottom of Strawberry Hill to get to the Children’s Center are over, and the ride time on the gondola is less than a minute.”

Angel Fire Resort

Angel Fire Resort is known for its sublime children’s ski programs. The small class sizes, nutritious (and tasty) lunch, and ample practice time give children a great, safe environment to learn skiing or snowboarding. For added peace of mind, children using the lifts will be equipped with a locator which also captures images to allow for better learning! Children six weeks to three years old can play with other children and do other fun activities at Snow Bear Camp.

Pajarito Mountain

“Pajarito is committed to the younger people entering our sport,” said Tommy Long, Pajarito Mountain snowmaking manager. “We have school groups that come up and we offer them a discounted multi week program so they can learn to ski and snowboard. Some of the schools have even rolled this in to their P.E. curriculum.”

The magic carpet at Pajarito, new this year, makes learning so much fun for your children! Pajarito offers ski lessons to children six and older, and snowboarding lessons to children eight and older. With great discount programs, a friendly staff, and beautiful scenery, a trip to Pajarito Mountain is a win for the whole family!

 

So you might not be able to leave at a moment’s notice, and your car might have a few more Cheerios wedged between the cushions, but this is so much better! Now you can bring the whole family to a New Mexico ski area and enjoy your time learning and playing together

Ski NM Events

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With some fresh snow on the slopes here are 5 great reasons to head up to the Ski New Mexico! New Mexico ski areas offer a variety of activities for couples, friends and families. If you’re looking for an excuse to get away, make a plan to attend one of these events!

Big ol’ Texas Weekend

Angel Fire Resort  – January 26-28

Angel Fire Resort loves Texans almost as much as… well, almost as much as Texans love Texans! To show pride for some of its favorite visitors, Angel Fire Resort is hosting Big Ol’ Texas Weekend, complete with headline concerts, Texas Hold’em, food and whiskey samplings, and the world-famous Big Texan Steak Challenge! Visit Angle Fire Resort Jan. 26-28, and try your hand (stomach?) at eating a 72 oz. steak!

Shovel Races

Angel Fire Resort- Feb. 3

You’ve probably heard of skiing or snowboarding down a mountain, and surely you’ve tried sledding and tubing…but have you tried shoveling? At Angel Fire Resort’s World Championship Shovel Races, you can hop on a snow shovel and race down the mountain with live music playing in the background. Registration starts Feb. 2—check out the event that made Jetsetter’s list of 11 Craziest Winter Adventures!

Mardi Gras in The Mountains

Red River – Feb. 8 – Feb. 13

Red River tradition meets Mardi Gras flare at Mardi Gras in the Mountains Feb. 8-13 in Red River, New Mexico. This event features the burning of the Loup-garou, The Grand Ball, and the Mardi Gras Main Street Parade showcasing local businesses and their holiday spirit!

February Fun Fest

Sipapu – Feb. 17 – Feb. 19

Include info on the hops fest
Ever wanted to go on a treasure hunt? Attend Sipapu’s February Fun Fest to cross that item off your bucket list along with other fun activities! From Feb. 17 to 19, Sipapu comes alive with a mountain-wide treasure hunt, a giant snow castle, a costume contest and parade, and plenty of opportunities to win prizes!

Brewski

Ski Santa Fe- Feb. 24

Smooth beer, soft powder, and a weekend with friends—what could be better? Brewski at Ski Santa Fe has several local breweries serving craft beer, music scoring an awesome day, and the perfect setting for a day skiing or snowboarding with friends!

 

For more information about upcoming events, or events not listed here, please visit https://www.skinewmexico.com/events/.

Photo Contest

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#howiskinmtrue

We just made it easier to enter to win a Ski NM True Pass! Now you can upload your photos or video directly to our contest page as well as tag your photo on your public Instagram account or post it to our Facebook wall with hashtag #howiskinmtrue

Three Ways To Enter:

  1. Upload your photo or video using the contest entry form, or
  2. Post your photo or video to a public Instagram page using the hashtag #howiskinmtrue, or
  3. Post your photo or video to the Ski NM Facebook wall using the hashtag #howiskinmtrue

All entries will automatically be added to the contest gallery where you can vote for your favorite! Share the gallery with friends and family to get the most votes.

The entry with the most votes will be the winner of a Ski NM True Pass for the 2018-2019 season.

KOAT Learn To Ski 2018

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January is learn to ski month!  

KOAT 7 in cooperation with Ski New Mexico and all eight of its alpine resorts are pleased to again join the nationwide efforts of “Learn a Winter Sports Month” this January.

More than 7,000 children have benefited from the KOAT Kids Learn to Ski & Snowboard program, which now entering its fifth year. For $50 per day, children ages 6 to 12 receive a lesson, a ski lift ticket and all equipment rentals. It’s an affordable way for children to learn a winter sport. This program is for first-time beginners. The program starts on Jan. 1, 2018, and runs through Jan. 31, 2018.

Reservations are required and are being taken from Jan. 2, 2018, through Jan. 31, 2018. Those wanting to make a reservation must contact the desired resort directly.

Participating resorts:

Angel Fire Resort: 1-844-218-4107

Pajarito Mountain: 505-662-5725

Red River Ski Area: 575-754-2223, ext. 602

Sandia Peak Ski Area: 505-242-9052

Sipapu Ski Resort: 800-587-2240

Ski Apache: 575-464-3643

Ski Santa Fe: 505-992-5084

Taos Ski Valley: 575-776-2291

Snow on the Way

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Enjoy Some Powder

Finally, the forecast looks promising for midweek snow showers!  Eric Green with KOAT 7 is calling for “a big moisture surge in the state” starting the evening of Tuesday, January 10, 2018. The weather system should move in Tuesday with moisture to start in the upper elevations around midnight, and continue into Wednesday morning. Accuweather is predicting 1″ to 8″ in the northern part of the state as well as 1″ to 3″ down south at Ski Apache. The weather will warm back up going into the weekend and make for a great Presidents Day weekend.

Come ski the powder!  View our Snow Report for up to date snow totals.

 

Accuweather Imagery For Wednesday at 11 am

Ski NM Military Discounts

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Our military members deserve the best Ski New Mexico has to offer. That’s why resorts throughout the state offer discounts to military members and their families. In New Mexico, service members can find unique perks like discounted lift tickets and lodging.

Red River

Active duty, reserve, and retired military, including immediate family, can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Red River Ski & Summer Area with discounted lift tickets. You can buy tickets at least three days in advance of your trip online, or pick them up at the ticket window.

Sipapu

All active duty military personnel can get free lift tickets at Sipapu during the 2017-2018 season. Just mention “Military Ski Free Deal” and show your military I.D. when picking up your lift ticket. Several blackout dates exist, so be sure to check Sipapu’s website while planning your trip.

Ski Apache

Ski Apache honors military members, past and present, as well as their families, by offering discounted lift tickets and season passes to active and retired military members and their dependents. You can buy your tickets ahead of time online and pick them up when you get there.

Angel Fire

Active duty, retired, veterans, National Guard, and reserve members, plus legal dependents are eligible for discounts on lift tickets at Angel Fire Resort. To take advantage of this deal, just show your military I.D. when picking up or buying lift tickets at the window.

 Taos Ski Valley

Taos Ski Valley offers all active duty, reserve, and retired military a discount of at least 20%. You must purchase at the ticket window and show your military ID. Additionally, Taos is home to the Not Forgotten Outreach Week, where any active duty military, Gold Star families, veterans, and any family member with a military ID can come ski/ride for only $40/day during the week of January 21 – 26.  More information can be found here.

Ski Santa Fe

Active duty, retired and currently serving reserve and National Guard members receive discounted lift tickets at Ski Santa Fe. Learn more about Ski Santa Fe’s discounts here, or visit the resort to pick up a lift ticket and hit the slopes!

Pajarito Mountain

Aside from a beautiful, panoramic view, Pajarito Mountain offers deep discounts to active duty military members! Nearly every Wednesday, ski free at Pajarito with your active duty military I.D., or get 50% of lift tickets almost every day. There are blackout dates, so check Pajarito’s website, and plan your trip in advance to make sure you’re getting the best deals.

To all of our military members, past and present, thank you for your service. We hope you enjoy your time skiing New Mexico!

7 Fun Off-Mountain Activities

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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!

2017-18 Holiday Events

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The holiday season is one of the best times to visit New Mexico to truly experience the state’s beauty, culture, and traditions.  Residents and tourists brave the cold weather to view and walk among the many light displays and celebrations.

These are some of the most spectacular family-friendly displays, worth a stop if you are in or traveling through New Mexico this holiday season!

IN SANTA FE

Christmas in the Plaza
Santa Fe’s historic plaza is aglow in lights and farolitos from Thanksgiving to New Years Day. Be sure to stop in Santa Fe on your way up to the ski areas to stroll around the plaza and through the surrounding streets of this historic city.

Christmas Eve Canyon Road Farolito Walk
December 24, 2017  @ 5:00 – 9:00 pm
Join the tens of thousands of people who turn out for this slow promenade in the heart of Santa Fe. Enjoy farolitos and carolers. Many of the galleries and restaurants are open; some serve hot drinks and offer a warm, welcome shelter from the cold.

IN ALBUQUERQUE

52st Annual Luminaria Tour
December 24, 2016
Take a self-guided tour through the Old Town plaza and several surrounding neighborhoods to view the city’s most impressive light and luminaria displays.(You can also stroll through Old Town any night of the month of December to see the picturesque white lights, but without the luminarias.)

River of Lights
Through December 30, 2016 @ 6:00 – 9:30 (Closed December 24 & 25)
ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden hosts New Mexico’s largest walk-through light show featuring millions of twinkling lights.

If you are visiting NM to enjoy skiing or snowboarding for the holidays, there’s plenty of holiday cheer for the whole family at and around the ski areas as well. From Santa to fireworks, there’s something for everyone. Several ski areas host traditional torchlight parades. These breathtaking displays on the slopes of the mountains are celebrations put on by the host ski area and skiing community and are considered a gift to the visitors who attend.

SKI APACHE

Dummy Gelunde & Torchlight Parade with Fireworks
December 27 @ 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Build your best snow-riding dummy, tie him to a pair of skis or a snowboard and watch him fly down the hill and off our giant ski launch! Then, hang out for our torchlight parade down the Capitan Trail followed by a spectacular fireworks show and more!

ANGEL FIRE

Ski and Snowboard with Santa
December 24 & 25 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Come ski and snowboard with Santa and Mrs. Claus on the mountain. Don’t forget a camera; this is one photo op you don’t want to miss. You can get a picture with Mr. and Mrs. Claus following this event in the Lodge Lobby too!

Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks
December 24 @ 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Bundle up the family and join us at the base of the ski mountain for our annual Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks.

New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks
December 31 @ 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Dress warm and join us at the base of the ski mountain for our annual New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks.

TAOS SKI VALLEY

New Year’s Eve Fireworks and Torchlight Parade
December 31 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Ring in the 2017 New Year in style with our torchlight parade and fireworks display. The night will kick off at 5:30pm with a laser light show. Then watch as skiers make their way down the mountain in the dark with flares as their only means of light. Don’t miss the spectacular fireworks display by Gemini Fireworks.

IN RED RIVER

Christmas Eve Fireworks and Torchlight Parade
December 23 @ 7:00 pm
See Red River ski area’s instructors, patrol, and local residents ski and snowboard down the mountain carrying flares. This beautiful show is a 45-plus year tradition and is accompanied by fireworks. The event is kicked off with a Rail Jam, where skiers and snowboarders can show off tricks and stunts.

New Years Eve Fireworks and Torchlight Parade
December 30 @ 7:00
Kick off your New Years celebrations on the FACE and enjoy this special parade the day before New Years Eve to get even more fun in this weekend!

Old Fashioned New Year’s Eve Party
December 31 @ 7:30-10:00 pm
The kids can celebrate New Year’s too! They’ll enjoy pizza, music, games, and can ring in the New Year when the countdown ball drops… at midnight Eastern Time!

SIPAPU

Christmas Eve Party
December 24 @ 5:00-8:00 pm
This annual party held in the historic lodge includes holiday music, warm fires, twinkling lights, an art project for the kids, and food and drink that are full of good cheer!

Ski Free with Gildan Bowl Ticket

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Ski New Mexico Offers Free Lift Ticket With Purchase of Gildan New Mexico Bowl Ticket

Offer valid at eight New Mexico ski resorts December 17-24, 2017

Ski New Mexico, in association with the New Mexico Tourism Department, has partnered with the Gildan New Mexico Bowl to provide ticketholders an extraordinary opportunity to enjoy two New Mexico True experiences. From December 17-24, 2017, one bowl game ticket can be redeemed for a free lift ticket.

“I am very excited to partner Ski New Mexico with the Land of Enchantment’s premier annual sports event. It makes so much sense. The opportunity for our fans to be able to enjoy a great bowl experience and take in the beauty of New Mexico is very special,” said Jeff Siembieda, Gildan New Mexico Bowl Executive Director.

Ski Free at 8 NM Ski Areas

This offer is valid at one of Ski New Mexico’s eight great ski areas: Ski Apache, Taos Ski Valley, Ski Santa Fe, Pajarito Mountain, Red River Ski & SummerArea, Angel Fire Resort, Sipapu, and Sandia Peak. The Gildan New Mexico Bowl ticket must be presented in person at the ski area ticket office for redemption and must be used the same day as redeemed. Limit is one per person and there is no cash value or refund. Offer valid from December 17-24, 2017 only.

Buy Gildan NM Bowl Tickets

Gildan New Mexico Bowl tickets are on sale now at the UNM Ticket office, located in the Northeast corner of Dreamstyle Arena, online at www.unmtickets.com or www.gildannewmexicobowl.com or by phone at the UNM ticket office (925-5626) or the Gildan New Mexico Bowl office (925-5999). Discount codes ($5 off $25 North End Zone general admission or $10 off $40 premium bowl tickets) are also currently available on New Mexico Lottery Powerball®, Mega Millions® and Mega Millions® Just the Jackpot™ tickets through Friday, December 8.

The Gildan New Mexico Bowl is once again igniting the collegiate bowl postseason, playing on opening day as it has since 2008. For more details on the game visit Gildan New Mexico Bowl website.

Kickoff in Dreamstyle Stadium in Albuquerque, N.M., is slated for Saturday, Dec. 16. It will air on ESPN and ESPN Radio at 2:30 p.m. MST (4:30 p.m. EST).

2017 Gildan New Mexico Bowl

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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The field is set for the 12th annual Gildan New Mexico Bowl with the Colorado State Rams and the Marshall Thundering Herd accepting invitations. The game is slated for Saturday, Dec. 16 at 2:30 p.m. MT/4:30 p.m. ET on ESPN and ESPN Radio. The matchup pits the Mountain West member against the Conference USA member on the first day of the FBS bowl season.

Colorado State (7-5, 5-3 MW), is bowl-eligible for the fifth straight season after winning its first four league games earlier this season. It is the Rams third appearance in the Gildan New Mexico Bowl, having won in both 2008 and 2013. CSU is led by four All-Mountain West First Team honorees including quarterback Nick Stevens, who ranks 11th in the country in passing yards, and wide receiver Michael Gallup, who is fourth in the nation in reception yards. Mike Bobo is at the helm of the Rams and has led them to a bowl game in each of his three seasons. 

“It is with great pleasure that we welcome CSU and their fans back to the Gildan New Mexico Bowl,” said Jeff Siembieda, Gildan New Mexico Bowl executive director. “The Rams have provided some unforgettable moments in our game in the past, their fans have been terrific and New Mexicans have loved having them here.”

Marshall (7-5, 4-4 C-USA), is bowl-eligible after a red-hot 6-1 start to the season. The Thundering Herd have the top rushing defense in Conference USA and second best scoring defense, allowing just 19.2 points per game. The Herd, who boast a five-game bowl win streak, is making their first appearance in the Albuquerque-based Bowl game. They are guided by Doc Holliday, who is a perfect 4-0 in bowl games as a head coach for The Herd. Marshall is 10-2 overall in bowl games and have won 10 of their last 11 dating back to 1998.

 “We have watched the Marshall football program with admiration from afar for years,” Siembieda said. “We are happy to welcome the Thundering Herd and their fans to New Mexico and we look forward to a great bowl week.  They are an exciting team with a fantastic fan base and we are thrilled to have Marshall in the Gildan New Mexico Bowl.”

Tickets, which are on sale now, range from $25-40 and can be purchased at the University of New Mexico ticket office, located in The Pit, online at www.unmtickets.com, or by calling 505-925-LOBO.

Early Season Discounts

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The early bird gets the worm, the early booker gets great discounts at New Mexico ski resorts. For those of you looking for great deals or eager to hit the slopes, planning ahead can save time and money.

Red River Ski and Summer Area

Visiting Red River Ski and Summer Area during Deal Daze is a great way to save on a trip to the southern Rocky Mountains. Deal Daze are Dec. 1-3 and 8-10, 2017, and during those days, full-day lift tickets start at $38, and half-day tickets start at $28. Purchase tickets online.

Angel Fire Resort

Angel Fire Resort is offering the 25/25 Deal until Dec. 8. When you stay three nights and ski two days or more, you save 25 percent on lift tickets and lodging. The discount can be used between Jan. 7 and March 25. To learn more about the offer, visit the website. Book online or call 800-633-7463.

Taos

Snowsports weeks at Taos are one of a kind, literally. It is the only full-week program in North America where students meet for 2 hours six days in a row to improve their skills, learn more about skiing and snowboarding, and meet new friends. These become available December 10 and occur weekly throughout the season. There are different packages available depending on your interests and level. For example, beginners can learn quickly with the First Experience Snowsports Week. Click here to learn more about Snowsports Weeks at Taos.

Ski Santa Fe

A Snow Sports Passport at Ski Santa Fe is your ticket to savings all season long. Starting this season, every person who completes a lesson package at the Ski Santa Fe Snow Sports School will receive $25 off of an all-day lift ticket, $25 off of any lesson or package, and $15 off any ski and snowboard rental package. The sooner you go, the sooner you can save. For more information view their website.

 

So what will it be? A road trip to Red River for some Deal Daze fun? A stay in Angel Fire with family? A week-long excursion at Taos? Or improving your skills at Ski Santa Fe? Any option you choose, you’ll be saving money while enjoying winter sports. What could be better?

New and Improved Ski NM

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As if the 2017-18 season isn’t enough cause for celebration, New Mexico ski resorts have made this time even sweeter. New Mexico skiers and snowboarders can look forward to new and updated amenities at many of their favorite resorts this upcoming season.

Ski Apache

Remember the Apache Bowl? It’s not a football game, but host to some of your favorite runs at Ski Apache. Visitors can now access this area via the new Doppelmayr triple chair as they take the 4-minute ride up Chair 6. Bring two friends and enjoy the comfortable, quiet ride.

Taos Ski Valley

Parents and children can both be happy about the renovations at Taos Ski Valley, especially the new beginner area and fully renovated Children’s Center. Straberry Hill, Taos’s beginner slope, now features five areas to learn skiing and snowboarding. Taos partnered with SNOW Operating, an exclusive provider of terrain-based learning, to create the optimal slope to help control speed and allow beginners to safely focus on the fundamentals. A pulse gondola is another new feature at Taos, allowing for better transportation around the resort. Taos Ski Valley visitors can also feel confident in Taos’s effort to improve forest health and water quality with a push to eliminate carbon emissions and minimize waste.

Pajarito Mountain

The beginner area at Pajarito Mountain now features a magic carpet which eases beginners into getting on and off lifts, making the learning process more enjoyable. Pajarito Mountain offers great beginner deals, including free lift tickets for fourth- and fifth-graders as well as children 7 years and younger. For more information, click here.

Angel Fire Resort

Skiers and snowboarders can expect a new-and-improved experience on the Angel Fire Resort slopes, including New Mexico’s first season-long, boarder-skier cross course. Jon Eppler, a terrain park designer who’s created courses for the Winter X-Games, worked with Angel Fire to expand the Liberation Terrain Park and stash features along designated green and blue trails. The “Headin’ Home” and “Highway” trails are also seeing updates. These popular trails will be wider to give visitors more room and prevent crowding. All trails will benefit from new, state-of-the-art green Snowcats, providing improved grooming.

Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort

This winter, Sipapu visitors can stay in the renovated lodge which features an addition larger than 2,000 square feet, a rental shop with new equipment, a new ticket office, a bigger gathering space, new bathrooms, and a locker room. Along with the updates at the lodge, Sipapu added a hand rail along the ski school’s magic carpet and widened “Beep Beep,” an intermediate trail. To learn more about the updates or book a stay in the lodge, visit SipapuNM.com.

Come up and enjoy!

Don’t Stress the Slow Start

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Three weeks into November, we’re still waiting for the skies to drop some powder on our favorite New Mexico ski areas. Last year, New Mexico slopes saw more than 300 inches of snow, and typically, by this time of year, we’ve already had a couple of snowstorms throughout the state.  Several areas in NM have their beginner areas open. For those of you looking for the steep stuff, take advantage of the extra weekend to hunt for some deals, wax your skis and boards, and get your bags ready. When that snow does hit, we will be ready to take full advantage.

New Mexico ski areas will be prepared to offer a great experience to visitors. Snowmaking allows the resorts to supplement natural snow for a smooth ride regardless of precipitation. New Mexico ski areas have state of the art systems which means a week of cool temperatures and consistent snowmaking can provide good base prepared for skiers and snowboarders which the resort can build upon throughout the season in addition to natural snowfall.

Tentative opening dates for New Mexico ski areas are listed below, with Sipapu, Red River and Taos open for the holiday weekend.  Come enjoy a few turns!

Sipapu – Open

Red River Ski & Summer Area – November 22, 2017

Taos Ski Valley –  November 23, 2017

Angel Fire – December 8, 2017

Ski Santa Fe – December 9, 2017

Ski Apache – December 15, 2017

Pajarito Mountain  –December 16, 2017

Sandia Peak – December 16, 2017

 

2017-18 Opening Dates

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The tentative opening dates for the 2017-18 ski season are below.  Please note these dates all subject to weather and snowfall amounts.  Things are looking really good! Thinks snow and keep dancing.

Sipapu –  First to open – November 18, 2017

Red River Ski & Summer Area – November 22, 2017

Taos Ski Valley –  November 23, 2017

Angel Fire – December 8, 2017

Ski Santa Fe – December 9, 2017

Ski Apache – December 15, 2017

Pajarito Mountain  – December 16, 2017

Sandia Peak – December 23, 2017

2017-18 New Mexico True Pass

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2017-18 Ski New Mexico True Pass – $300

PRICE: $300
PASSES: 2 All-Day Adult Lift Tickets at every ski area in NM
VALID SKI AREAS: Angel Fire, Pajarito, Red River, Sandia Peak, Sipapu, Ski Santa Fe, Ski Apache and Taos
REDEEM: Tickets redeemed at ski area ticket window
BLACK OUT DATES: 12/26/17 to 1/3/18  and 3/10-3/18 2018

Card is transferrable and tickets may be used on the same day at the same ski area.

Buy Your Pass Today

Send check or money order to

Ski New Mexico
PO Box 90037
Albuquerque , NM 87199

For questions please contact us

 

2017 New Mexico Ski Hall of Fame Banquet

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Join us for the Induction of Mr. Walter Ruegg of Taos Ski Valley. Additionally, 2017 is the 15th year inducting members into the New Mexico Ski Hall of Fame (NMSHF).  The NMSHF committee will recognize and celebrate all prior inductees during the 2017 induction ceremony and dinner held on October 28, 2017 at the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum.   Come be a part of the celebration!

Details

Saturday, October 28th, 2017
Cocktails – 6:00 pm
Banquet Dinner – 7:00 pm

Reservations are required and seating is limited so reserve your seat today!

Purchase Tickets

New Mexico Ski Hall of Fame Members

Robert Nordhaus- 2003
Ernie Blake- 2003
Ben Abruzzo- 2003
Pete Totemoff- 2004
Lloyd and Olive Bolander- 2004
Buzz and Jean Bainbridge- 2004
2004 UNM Lobo Ski Team- 2005
George Brooks- 2005
Roy Parker- 2007
Harvey and Reserl Chalker-2007
Allen Church- 2007
Kingsbury Pitcher- 2007
Jean Mayer- 2008
John and Judy Miller- 2008
Bruce Gavett-2008
Drew Judycki- 2008
Tom Long- 2009
George Hatch- 2009
Bill Burgess-2009
Mickey Blake-2009
Chilton Anderson-2010
John Dendahl- 2010
Klaus Weber- 2010
Chris Stagg-2011
Ferdinand Koch-2011
George Boyden- 2011
Joe McClaugherty-2011
Wally Dobbs-2012
Paul Souder- 2013
Christi Hield-2013
Benny Abruzzo-2015
Sigi Klein-2015
Dadou Mayer- 2016

New Mexico Ski Hall of Fame Induction

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Join us October 8th, at 7pm for drinks and dinner to celebrate the induction of Walter Reugg into the New Mexico Ski Hall of Fame.

This event will take place in the Anderson-Abruzzo Balloon Museum.

Stay tuned for tickets pricing and purchase information.

Ski Santa Fe Extends Season

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WE GOT SNOW!!! 22” fell in a surprise snow storm and the skiing could not be better. Ski Santa Fe will be open through Sunday April 2nd. We have more snow on the way and this could be one of the best weeks of skiing and riding this year.

Ski Santa Fe will extend the special closing lift rates beginning March 25th  through closing day April 2nd. The reduced lift ticket rates are as follows:

Adult All Day $62
Adult w/ Peak Plus Card $37

Student All Day $53
Student w/Peak Plus Card $28

Child All Day $48
Child w/Peak Plus Card $23

Senior All Day $50
Senior w/Peak Plus Card $25

Active Military All Day $59

AM ½ Day $50

PM ½ Day $50

Visit our web site at skisantafe.com for up-to- date information on Ski Santa Fe.

Spring Discounts

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*post updated March 25, 2017

As the season comes to a close, several areas are offering some sweet deals.

Ski Santa Fe – Closing April 2, 2017

Discounted lift tickets through April 2nd!
Additional Savings with Peak Plus Card

Ski Santa Fe Weekend Events:

Saturday March 25th – Gladfelter Memorial Bump Contest
Sunday March 26th  – Ski Santa Fe Rail Jam
Live music at Totemoffs all weekend!

Pajarito Mountain – Closing March 26,2017

Discounted tickets for the remainder of the season
Full-day lift tickets are now $39 for adults, $29 for seniors and teens, and $23 for kids

Ski Apache – Closing March 27, 2017

Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort – Closing April 9, 2017

$26 all day adult lift ticket
$11 all day 12 and under lift ticket

Taos Ski Valley – Closing April 9, 2017

$20 lift tickets April 4 – 9

Taos Season Ending Events:

Sunday, April 2nd – Pond Skimming
Tuesday, April 4th – Thursday the 6th – Community Days
Celebrate Taos Ski Valley’s B Corp Certification! They will offer $20 dollar lift tickets on those days. Please making a voluntary contribution to the Taos Community Foundation. Any amount is acceptable and greatly appreciated! Donations can be made at any ticket window.

Taos Extends Season

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TAOS OPEN TUESDAY, APRIL 4TH – SUNDAY, THE 9TH

It’s been a fantastic season! Taos Ski Valley has decided to extend their season and remain open Tuesday, April 4th through Sunday, April 9th. Monday, April 3rd we will be closed for their Annual Employee Ski Day.

We hope you are as happy about this as we are and are looking forward to taking advantage of the extra time to make some more turns and memories.

Schedule Per Taos Ski Valley Website

Here is the schedule that you’ll want to know in order to maximize your end of the season at Taos Ski Valley.

Sunday, April 2nd Pond Skimming  will still take place as planned, by The Phoenix.

Tuesday, April 4th – Thursday the 6th please join us for our Community Days as we celebrate our B Corp Certification! Taos Ski Valley is the 1st ski area to receive this recognition. What does that mean? It means we want to thank our community that helped make this accomplishment possible by offering $20 dollar lift tickets on those days. We will also ask that you join us in giving back to our great community by making a voluntary contribution to the Taos Community Foundation. Any amount is acceptable and greatly appreciated! Donations can be made at any ticket window.

Friday, April 7th – Sunday, April 9th ticket prices will remain at our standard $98. We will continue to take donations for the Taos Community Foundation at the ticket window.

Resort:

– Lifts 1, 2, 4, and 12 will be running Tuesday April 4th – Sunday the 9th. Lifts 1, 2 & 4 will run from 10am until 4pm. Lift 12 will close at 2:45pm.
– No beginner lifts will be running during the extended period.
– Only Private Snowsports lessons will be offered April 4th – 9th.
– Mountain Collective Passes will be valid during the extension period.

We want to thank each and every one of you who supported Taos Ski Valley this season and we hope to see as many of you as possible during our extension period.

Green Chile and Cold Brews

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Eating at ski resorts can often be expensive with rather generic food offerings. In New Mexico, you can get a large meal for under $15, or cheaper, with the state’s unique take on cuisine. Then, wash it down with a cold local craft brew and grab a Taos bar for your mid-ski snack.

What is Green Chile?

Somewhere between smoke and heat resides green chile – a pepper that is a ubiquitous part of New Mexico cuisine. Green chile is usually chopped into smaller bits, but it can also be turned into a sauce or a salsa-like consistency. Its red chile sibling has less heat, more smoke, and a subtler flavoring than green chile. Together, they become an answer to the official state question (and, yes, it really was passed by the State as the official New Mexico question): Red or Green?   If you feel like trying both, answer Christmas to get red and green chile sauce slathered on your favorite food – we put it on nearly everything.

Depending on where you eat them, green chiles can be mild or extremely hot. At New Mexico ski resorts, the mild form of green chiles finds itself on burgers, pizzas, and into green chile stew. The green chile helps pop the flavor on a typical pizza, but be careful as green chiles are addictive. Since I moved here, I can’t eat pizza without thumbnail-sized slices of green chile floating on the mozzarella (most slices are less than $5). Besides adding zest to pizzas, green chile is the center of what I believe to be the best lunchtime ski meal: green chile stew.

Behold the Greatness of Green Chile Stew

One New Mexico truth is that everyone’s grandmother makes the best green chile stew. This truth is also testament that every family, restaurant, and community does green chile stew a little differently. What most green chile stew recipes have in common is New Mexico (and only New Mexico!) chopped green chile, pork or beef, potatoes, and other spices or vegetables. Add a warm tortilla to help soak up some of the stew, and you have a fast and filling lunchtime meal. While others are waiting in line, grab a cup to quickly fill your stomach and warm your body. On a brisk January day flushed with several inches of fresh powder, my friends and I broke for a quick lunch at the Pajarito cafeteria. I hit up the green chile stew to eat fast so I could get more cold smoke under my skis. Hitting my lips, the warm stew rushed into my ribs and warmed my insides with the green chile getting my blood flowing to my fingertips and toes. I then inhaled a soft pretzel, massive cookie, and some soda to wash down the green chile stew (about $12).

Cold Brews, Warm Skiing

New Mexico is one of the foremost states for craft brews. There are more than three dozen unique breweries across the state, which isn’t bad for a state with a population of less than three million. We even have a state tour of ales. The local brew scene was recently celebrated at Ski Santa Fe’s BrewSki 2017 event. At the Ski Santa Fe mid-mountain lodge, Albuquerque and Santa Fe breweries flowed into happy patrons’ cups, while sitting on a sun-soaked deck, an 80 inch snow base, and live music being heard across the mountain. My choice: go with anything from Boxing Bear Brewery, which quickly became an Albuquerque institution. I’m also partial to Santa Fe Brewing Company’s Happy Camper. The snow is good and the local brews are great (a pint will usually run about $5). Remember, New Mexico is high desert, so watch how much alcohol you consume as dehydration and altitude means booze has a stronger effect on you than at sea level.

Snacks

When the afternoon hunger gets to you, I want a Taos Mountain Energy Bar. Manufactured in the same area as Taos Ski Valley, Red River Ski & Summer Area, and Angel Fire Ski Resort, these are extremely tasty energy bars with a national audience. Found now across the United States, our local energy bar is both healthy and portable (perfect to stash into a ski jacket pouch). I usually grab the chocolate butterscotch because my sweet tooth likes the flavor, but the energy from its peanut butter and flax seeds helps me do one more run full of moguls (under $3). I may grab another bar for the drive home before I hit up a New Mexico dinner.

New Mexico Cuisine: Kinda, but Not Really Mexican

New Mexico food will look similar on the menu to what you’ve seen at may Mexican restaurants as Spanish influences are present in both, but we tweak it a little. First, expect cheese. We love cheese. We smother our enchiladas with it and cheese melts inside our breakfast burritos. Next, you’ll see blue corn tortillas alongside more common flour and corn tortillas (some pizza places even have blue corn pizza dough!). I usually don’t even look at menus anymore. I just ask for blue corn chicken enchiladas with Christmas. And then a sopapilla – a flakey sweet square dough that inflates to resemble a pillow – that I fill with local New Mexico honey. New Mexico honey isn’t as sweet as most honey as New Mexican bees pollinate lavender fields, so expect a fragrant and succulent honey inside your sopapilla.

 

With your belly full of green chile stew, local IPA, and our take on classic dishes, you are gonna have to ski tomorrow to start burning off the calories. Not a bad way to spend a weekend – skiing, sunshine, affordable grub, and green chile.

All Are Welcome: New Mexico’s Adaptive Sports Program

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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.

How Skiing Fills the Unforgiving February

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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.

Mardi Gras 2017

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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/

Powder & Light – Skiing NM

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New Mexico skiing means hitting the slopes with the same snow hitting other Rocky Mountain States, but with bright sunshine and less crowds.

It Starts with a Rumor

It starts with a rumor. The rumor grows to probability. Probability becomes hope. Calendars are checked. Schedules cleared. Meetings cancelled. Friends whisper through social media and across text messages. The approaching winter storm begins bearing down on New Mexico. The weather reports come in as meteorologist predictions pass from weatherperson to the masses. The rumor appears to be true that a storm will come Thursday night. The predictions are snow totals of greater than 12 inches at Taos and Red River, over six inches in Santa Fe, and four inches at Sandia Peak. These predictions come with the possibility that schools and offices will close on Friday, which makes for multiple days of powder skiing. Then the rumor becomes true. The rumor does not disappoint.

Friday morning begins with fresh snow all over New Mexico. The list of closed schools and business begins expanding. I grab two friends for the 30 minute to drive to the lifts of Sandia Peak Ski. We drive up the mountain only to find a half empty parking lot. I know that this day has potential to show why New Mexico is so very special to me – untracked powder runs through flowy trails and blue skies overhead with nearly empty runs. How do we get so lucky? New Mexico weather is a little unique.

Why New Mexico Weather is Better

Yes, parts of New Mexico are desert, but New Mexico is a desert with mountains reaching over two miles above sea level. That means the New Mexico mountains are cool with low humidity. New Mexico is also just south of Colorado. This places New Mexico’s ski resorts in a prime position. As a storm tracks from the Pacific Ocean eastward, New Mexico can get the same precipitation from the same storms hitting other Rocky Mountain states like Utah or Colorado. There is a big difference between New Mexico and other states like Utah and Colorado: New Mexico’s 300 days of sunshine. We get the snow from the big storms, but then we get bright sunny days. Skiing in New Mexico means that a storm brings powder and light.

A Nighttime Gift

New Mexico’s weather allows for the coexistence of two seemingly incongruent weather occurrences: sunshine and storms. When I tell my friends across the country about what happens in the New Mexico atmosphere, they are unable to comprehend what is one of my favorite parts of skiing in the Land of Enchantment. The New Mexico ski resorts usually get hit with winter storms during the night that can dump nearly a foot of snow or more while you sleep. We can get snow during the day, but that is less common. This means that we awaken to blue skies and fresh snow. This bewilders my Midwestern friends who experience a week of grey clouds when the winter storms arrive. In New Mexico, we may go for maybe one day of clouds. Then, we are back to skiing in sunshine. We receive a gift of snow at night, then open our bluebird skiing presents the next day.

Powder Day

On Friday morning, the snow reports are strong across the state. At Sandia Peak Ski, my friends and I ski across the soft snow. I float from one patch of powder to the next. My snowboarding friend smiles as he glides across the trails. We encounter more people hiking up the mountain than skiing down. The trails are so empty that we can stop in the middle of a run so that we decide who wants to lead and hit fresh powder first. We repeat this process for four hours with blue skies overhead. The powder and light of skiing in New Mexico.

Sandia Peak Open Dec 23

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Sandia Peak will open the beginners area and the Cubby Corner Children’s area on an 18 inch base. Skiing and boarding will be accessed from Chair #4 and the Mitey Mite.

At this time the ski area can ONLY be accessed via Highway 536. We will open additional terrain and Tram access as snowfall permits.

All facilities will be open including the Double Eagle II Cafeteria, Snow Sports School, Cubby Corner Children’s Facility, Rental Shop and Sandia Peak Sports Shop.

We will be open December 23rd through January 3rd. The remainder of the season we will be open Friday through Sundays and Holidays.

Special Lift Ticket Rates:

Beginner Lift: $35
Beginner Lift with Peak Plus Card: $10
Ticket prices subject to change.

Ski Area Hours

9:00 am to 4:00pm
am half day – 9:00am to 12:30pm, pm half day -12:30pm to 4:00pm

White Christmas at Ski Santa Fe

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Dispatch – Ski Santa Fe Xmas 2015

  • December 23rd  – 12”
  • December 24th  – 18”
  • December 25th  – 17”

I was all set to fly out at 6:00 am on Christmas Eve to visit my family back home in Tulsa Oklahoma, but the moisture that everyone had been eyeing out West was now with within 24 hours of hitting the Sangres and there was reasonable certainty it was going to deliver more than just a white Christmas.

The call was made on the 22nd. ”Mom there’s bad (good) weather coming in and flights are already being cancelled. I’m afraid I’m not going to make it home for Christmas,” I told her.  Wasn’t too big of a deal, after all I was just home for Thanksgiving.

I had actually just moved to Santa Fe and was far from having any sort of ski crew just yet.  A benefit of that is there’s no one to blame but yourself for not “gettin’ while the gettin’s good” if you know what I mean.   So, alone, I was able to nab second chair on the 23rd and first chair on the 24th.

The storm ended up being the biggest, best and most memorable of the season.  Not only for the awesome week of powder turns we were able to milk out of it, but even more so for the new friends I made while in line for the “first chair.”  To this day I ski with the pretty girl from chair #2, and the guys from ABQ hit me up on Facebook when there’s something on the radar to chase.

Here’s to another White Christmas!

 

 

The Turning of Kachina Peak

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Standing at 12,480 feet above sea level, I completely forget how to turn.  My boots cement themselves against the 45-degree angle of Taos’ most famous mountain peak.  Signs warn that ski patrol will not drag me down the run because I’m scared.  The signs are also clear that this is advanced skiing.  I should know better, but now fear and anxiety swirl inside my head.  A voice echoes between my ears, “How do I turn?!?  Why can’t I remember how to turn???  Just point your stupid feet down the mountain, dummy!”  This internal dialogue repeats as I dangle atop New Mexico’s premier precipice.   How I got to this moment begins a few years earlier when I first came to Taos.

I thought taking a ski lesson would be a good idea during my first trip to the world renowned Taos Ski Valley.  Others told me about how good Taos’ ski instructors were at making new and advanced skiers comfortable on the famed northern New Mexico slopes.  If I wanted to improve my turns and finally get comfortable in moguls, the Ernie Blake Snowsports School would help me get there.  When I arrived, I lucked into a group lesson with only a single other member – like getting nearly private instruction!

My instructor was a classic Taos ski teacher.  He was one of many who came for a season, but fell in love with the people and the tranquility of the New Mexico skiing experience, so he decided to stay on for nearly a lifetime.  A teacher more concerned with making sure we all had a good day than anything else.  After some preliminary turns to check out our skill levels, the three of us headed above the famed Al’s Run on lift 1.  Like so many times in Taos, our instructor knew the other guy riding with us on the lift.  Talk quickly moved to the news that the Blake family sold the Taos Ski Valley.  Our lift companion voiced concerns about the sale changing Taos.  Maybe the good old days would writhe away.  Maybe Taos would lose that elusive thing called “character.”  Could the bright yellow jackets of ski instructors be a thing of the past and be replaced with corporate logos?

Things did change in Taos.  Perhaps the most reported was building the Kachina Peak ski lift, which ushered me to the top of Taos a few moments ago.  Standing with ski poles in hand and staring across the western ridge of the ski resort, I remember that Taos sits among the southern portion of the Rocky Mountains.  It is part of the same swatch of saw-tooth mountains ranging from Canada through Colorado and down into Albuquerque.  Kachina Peak is a little different from her sisters as her top is flattened, which makes for a great place for skiers to take pictures and chat with each other about the view and the conditions.  The flat top of Kachina Peak is also where I spot two bright yellow beacons that would become my salvation – Taos Ski Instructors!

I shuffle over to the two instructors, “Umm. Sorry to disturb you, but this is my first time on Kachina Peak.  Would you happen to know the best way down?”

The taller instructor responds, “No problem! We’re on break and thought that we would sneak a run in before our next lesson.”

I think, “Am I getting another virtual private lesson at Taos?”

The shorter instructor starts toward the left, warns of some ice patches, and then pauses at the lip where I should begin my first descent down Kachina.  Effortlessly, he drops in.  The taller instructor follows.  I muster my courage and pause.  My mind goes blank.  Kachina is steep.  My inner voice says, “Just turn your feet”, but the long planks of wood strapped to my ankles remain motionless, while I see the instructors making their way down the slope.  Teetering on the lip, with fear spreading from head to my throat to my stomach, I lurch forward, spin the back of my skis counter-clockwise, and make my first turn.  And then the rhythm comes back.  I’m doing it.  I’m moving from bump to bump down Kachina Peak.  I follow the yellow jackets down the run as my internal fear morphs into laugher.  I am actually laughing out loud because the snow and the experience is that good.

The instructors in their yellow jackets show that Taos isn’t changing.  Teachers and skiers come for the best experience possible.  People know each other.  Instructors help you even when they aren’t on the clock.  And, Kachina Peak remains a place where skiers learn that fear can lead to joy.

7 Ski Areas Open in New Mexico

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Skiing in New Mexico is in full swing. 7 areas are now open and making plenty of snow to make for a great time on the slopes.  Most areas in NM are expecting more snow on Friday just in time for the holiday season.  Check out the daily snow report for more details.

Daily Operation Schedules

Angel Fire Resort – Open Daily

Pajarito  Mountain – Open Friday – Monday (Open Daily, December 16, 2016-January 2, 2017)

Red River Ski & Summer Area – Open Daily

Sandia Peak – TBA

Sipapu Ski & Summer Area –  Open Daily

Ski Apache – Open Daily (Gondola Rides Available)

Ski Santa Fe  – Open Daily

Taos Ski Valley –  Open Daily

 

 

From The Sunport to The Slopes

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You won’t find many people who rave about airports when they go skiing.  New Mexico is a little different.  The journey from the terminal to your destination is a lot more interesting, fun, and scenic than your average ski trip.

Expect Something a Little Different

The first thing you will notice is the sound. Your shoes don’t clamor over industrial grade carpet, but gently tap against a tan tile floor stretching throughout the terminal. You will see stuffed leather chairs instead of hard blue plastic molds. The windows frame azure skies and mountain peaks reaching two miles above sea level, not an industrial skyline and gray clouds. As your legs stretch out, the elevation will make you breathe a little harder, but the air is already a little clearer. The walk lasts just a few minutes – you get through faster than expected – and you open onto a large hall with a ceiling made of timbers decorated with tribal etchings. This is more than an airport, or the Sunport as it is officially called. This is your initial gateway into the skiing experience of New Mexico. A land where even the airport, or rather the Sunport, is a little different.

The Sunport is the primary airport for New Mexico, located in Albuquerque, and near the state’s geographical center. It has international flights, but this isn’t the big city airport. The Sunport often feels more like a museum with its glass encased pottery from the state’s native tribes, silver and turquoise jewelry on display, and painted New Mexico landscapes adorning the walls. The color scheme is turquoise and the brown of well-worn leather. The feeling is welcoming you to slow down and relax. You have nothing to do but enjoy the view and ride the snow.

We Have Options!

Leaving the Sunport presents a couple of options. The rental car may be the easiest way to get around the state, but not the only choice. There are shuttles from the Sunport to Taos, Taos Ski Valley, and Santa Fe. You can also take a local bus ride to the Rail Runner Express, which is a regional rail line going from just south of Albuquerque to Santa Fe. And, yes, the Rail Runner train doors go “beep-beep” like the Looney Tunes cartoon before closing. The Rail Runner is a more scenic way to get to the slopes as you see the New Mexico mountains and mesas pass by while heading north to Santa Fe. You can then take a public Santa Fe shuttle for $5 to Ski Santa Fe, which will reward you with taking $5 off a lift ticket for taking public transportation.

Santa Fe Area

If you take the highway, be prepared for a quick interstate drive north through Albuquerque (about 25 minutes) with the Sandia Mountains on your right and three dormant volcano tops to your distant left. If you arrive in the morning, you will probably see multiple hot air balloons hovering over the city too, with a possibility that you will drive under them. Continuing past the city limits begins the sprawling open landscape. Within an hour, the car turns a corner to see the mountain range beyond Santa Fe, which holds Ski Santa Fe. 90 minutes from leaving the Sunport and a quick ski lift ride, you are now 12,000 feet above sea level having a panoramic view of three mountain ranges. If you choose to skirt left around Santa Fe, an additional 30 minutes takes you Pajarito, which is a hidden gem of a ski resort next to Los Alamos.

The Enchanted Circle

The drive continues through the town of Espanola toward Taos. One portion of the road between Espanola and Taos includes a parallel drive to the Rio Grande River. The road dips into a canyon with a rock wall to one side and the Rio Grande on the other. The canyon opens to a road dotted with artists’ galleries, antique shops, and stands selling roasted pinions. The final push takes you to the Enchanted Circle, which is home to most of the state’s ski resorts. The Enchanted Circle sits like a clock face with Taos at 6 o’clock, Angel Fire at 4 o’clock, and Red River at 11 o’clock. Between the ski resorts are mountain passes and wide pastures, which are perfect for sled rides and snow mobiles.

Enjoy the Experience

In just over three hours, you begin a journey through culture, art, and landscapes that inspired Georgia O’Keefe to pick up a paintbrush. But, what you’ve really come for is the snow. The powder snow of the Rocky Mountains. The snowcapped Rocky Mountain peaks stretching from just outside the Sunport to the northern slopes of Red River. Welcome to New Mexico where getting from the Sunport to the slopes isn’t a task to finish quickly, but a pathway of auditory, visual, and cultural experiences.

Deals and Steals for 2016-17 Ski Season

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Deals by Ski Area

Save at Sandia Peak Ski and Tramway

Students, children, seniors, military members and children under 46” tall save at Sandia Peak. There is also an option to buy a 6 Pack of Fun; buy six tickets at a discounted rate and use them for yourself or share with friends and family! Be sure to visit sandiapeak.com to learn about available savings! Find more Sandia Peak deals here.

Save at Pajarito Mountain

Pajarito Mountain is the perfect place to save on a family vacation. Be flexible with your schedule and ski on Car Load Days or Local Appreciation Days for deeply discounted lift tickets. Visit skipajarito.com to learn more about ways to save at Pajarito Mountain Ski Area! Fine more Pajarito deals here.

Save at Ski Santa Fe

Planning a trip to Santa Fe? Want to ski or snowboard while you’re there? Consider getting a Peak Plus Card to get $25 off lift tickets, buy a 6 Pack of Fun in a discounted bundle, or save with multi-day lift ticket discounts. Student, senior, children, and military personnel also save at Ski Santa Fe. Learn more about tickets and pricing at skisantafe.com or order your discount cards. Fine more Santa Fe deals here. 

Save at Red River Ski & Summer Area

If you’re looking to save big by taking advantage of discount days, Red River Ski & Summer Area should be on your travel agenda. Travel during 2017 January Bargain Days, 2016/17 College Days, Deal Daze 2016 and get 50% off lift tickets. Visit redriverskiarea.com to stay current on ways to save and learn the details of each deal! Find more Red River  deals here!

Save at Sipapu

This season, Sipapu is offering a variety of discounts for both the new and experienced skier/snowboarder. With the purchase of a full-day lift ticket, receive up to three free lessons! Get free lodging with the purchase of a lift ticket during Free Lodging Days, or bring your RV and get your campsite/hookups free any day of the season. Ski or Snowboard on Superbowl Sunday to save on lift tickets and enter a drawing for a free vacation. Sipapu also offers Car Load Days, Local Appreciation Days, and Two for One Tuesdays. 4th and 5th graders, 40-year-olds, 60-year-olds, and all people over 70 years old ski for free at Sipapu. Sipapu is a family-friendly ski resort in the Rocky Mountains, perfect for a family vacation. Visit the specials page on sipapunm.com to find deals nearly every day of the season. Find more Sipapu deals here!

Save at Taos Ski Valley

Taos Ski Valley offers multiple discounts for group activities, multi-day lift tickets, and season passes. A great way to save is by skiing in the value season from Nov. 24 to Dec. 16. A family vacation at Taos Ski Valley can be affordable with the right tools! Luckily, we’re here to help. Use the deals above to save on your trip and visit skitaos.com to get up-to-date information about pricing and deals. Find more Taos deals here!

Save at Angel Fire Resort

A great way to save at Angel Fire Resort is by booking a Stay and Ski Package which gives everyone in the group discounts on lodging and tickets. Students, families, seniors, and children save on season passes. Or, ski at night for only $12 with a same-day lift ticket! Angel Fire Resort is a popular winter sports destination in New Mexico. Make sure you’re preparing for the best trip at the lowest price by visiting angelfireresort.com to stay up to date with the latest deals. Find more Angel Fire deals here. 

Save at Ski Apache

Want to gain greater camaraderie with your fellow winter sportspersons? Attend a Snow Divas or Men’s Mountain Masters ski and social group day. Fridays are extra special in February for women at Ski Apache. They offer $35 intermediate ski lessons. You can also save with a package deal where lodging, tickets, equipment rentals, and meals are all included in one fairly-priced package. Ski Apache offers programming to fit all winter sportsmen and women. If you’re looking for a ski or snowboard trip in beautiful surroundings or want to meet new people, Ski Apache is a great choice. For up-to-date information about lift tickets and discounts, visit skiapache.com.  Find more Ski Apache deals here. 

2016-17 Holiday Events

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The holiday season is one of the best times to visit New Mexico to truly experience the state’s beauty, culture, and traditions.  Residents and tourists brave the cold weather to view and walk among the many light displays and celebrations.

These are some of the most spectacular family-friendly displays, worth a stop if you are in or traveling through New Mexico this holiday season!

In Santa Fe:

Christmas in the Plaza
Santa Fe’s historic plaza is aglow in lights and farolitos from Thanksgiving to New Years Day. Be sure to stop in Santa Fe on your way up to the ski areas to stroll around the plaza and through the surrounding streets of this historic city.

Christmas Eve Canyon Road Farolito Walk
December 24, 2016  @ 5:00-9:00 pm
Join the tens of thousands of people who turn out for this slow promenade in the heart of Santa Fe. Enjoy farolitos and carolers. Many of the galleries and restaurants are open; some serve hot drinks and offer a warm, welcome shelter from the cold.

In Albuquerque:

52st Annual Luminaria Tour
December 24, 2016
This guided tour takes holiday-light seekers through the Old Town plaza and several surrounding neighborhoods to view the city’s most impressive light and luminaria displays.(You can also stroll through Old Town any night of the month of December to see the picturesque white lights, but without the luminarias.)

River of Lights
Through December 30, 2016
ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden hosts New Mexico’s largest walk-through light show featuring millions of twinkling lights.

If you are visiting NM to enjoy skiing or snowboarding for the holidays, there’s plenty of holiday cheer for the whole family at and around the ski areas as well. From Santa to fireworks, there’s something for everyone. Several ski areas host traditional torchlight parades. These breathtaking displays on the slopes of the mountains are celebrations put on by the host ski area and skiing community and are considered a gift to the visitors who attend.

Ski Apache

Dummy Gelunde & Torchlight Parade with Fireworks
December 28 @ 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Build your best snow-riding dummy, tie him to a pair of skis or a snowboard and watch him fly down the hill and off our giant ski launch! Then, hang out for our torchlight parade down the Capitan Trail followed by a spectacular fireworks show and more!

Angel Fire

Ski and Snowboard with Santa
December 24 @ 10:00 am-4:00 pm
Come ski and snowboard with Santa and Mrs. Claus on the mountain. Don’t forget a camera; this is one photo op you don’t want to miss.

Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks
December 24 @ 6:00-7:00 pm
Bundle up the family and join us at the base of the ski mountain for our annual Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks.

New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks
December 31 @ 6:00-7:00 pm
Dress warm and join us at the base of the ski mountain for our annual New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks.

New Year’s Eve Party
December 31 @ 9:00 pm-1:00 am
Celebrate the end of a wonderful 2016.

Taos Ski Valley

New Year’s Eve Fireworks and Torchlight Parade
December 31 @ 5:45 pm – 7:00 pm
Ring in the 2017 New Year in style with our torchlight parade and fireworks display. The night will kick off at 5.45pm with a laser light show. Then watch as skiers make their way down the mountain in the dark with flares as their only means of light. Don’t miss the spectacular fireworks display by Gemini Fireworks.

Red River

Christmas Eve Fireworks and Torchlight Parade
December 24 @ 7:00 pm
See Red River ski area’s instructors, patrol, and local residents ski and snowboard down the mountain carrying flares. This beautiful show is a 45-plus year tradition and is accompanied by fireworks. The event is kicked off with a Rail Jam, where skiers and snowboarders can show off tricks and stunts.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks and Torchlight Parade
December 31 @ 7:00 pm
Kick off your New Year celebrations on the FACE and enjoy this special New Year’s Eve torchlight parade and fireworks. Then head into town to party.

Old Fashioned New Year’s Eve Party
December 31 @ 7:30-10:00 pm
The kids can celebrate New Year’s too! They’ll enjoy pizza, music, games and can ring in the new year when the countdown ball drops… at midnight Eastern time!

Sipapu

Christmas Eve Party
December 24 @ 5:00-8:00 pm
This annual party held in the historic lodge includes holiday music, warm fires, twinkling lights, an art project for the kids, and food and drink that are full of good cheer!

Ski NM Membership Perks Pass

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Membership Has It’s Peaks.

By becoming a member of Ski New Mexico, you’re not only supporting the southwest’s foremost advocacy group for winter sports, you will also receive a member’s only punch-pass which grants you

2 free lift tickets at each of our 8 member resorts (16 lift tickets in total!)

Become a Member & Buy Now

At just $300 (and with limited blackout periods), this transferable pass is the finest deal in the southwest. Ski and ride all of our mountains twice, or treat a friend or family member!

Sandia Peak

Kick it off at Sandia Peak, just 45 minutes from downtown Albuquerque (or even faster, via Sandia’s aerial tramway, one of the longest in the world). Enjoy sustained, fall-line cruising in the morning, and be back in the city by the afternoon for a round of golf, happy hour, or even a business meeting.
Blogger’s pick: Aspen Glade for tasty tree shots, Panorama Point for endless blue skies.

Ski Apache

Take it southbound to Ruidoso and Sierra Blanca Peak; the towering backdrop and snow-maker for Ski Apache – the southernmost ski resort in the country. New Mexico’s second largest, Ski Apache serves up 750 acres and 1,900 vertical feet of terrain for skiers and riders of all abilities, as well as the state’s only gondola.
Blogger’s pick: Apache Bowl for powder points, liftline Gondola laps for having an audience.

Taos Ski Valley

Further north lies the Enchanted Circle of northern New Mexico; an 83-mile loop which starts in the historic town of Taos. Our state’s largest winter resort, Taos Ski Valley, is home to some of the country’s most storied steeps and light, powder snow (as well as a world-reknowned ski school, to show you how to navigate this legendary terrain). Blogger’s pick: West Basin Ridge for heart-stopping drops, the Bavarian Lodge for pretzels and beer.

Red River

North of Taos lies the slopeside town of Red River, where many accommodations are just steps from the nearest chairlift. With a hearty vertical drop of 1,600 feet, Red River also boasts a robust snowmaking and grooming system, as well as a veritable bevy of family-friendly events throughout the season.
Blogger’s pick: Uncrowded bumps off Silver Chair, apres at the slopeside Lift House.

Angel Fire

Continuing around the Enchanted Circle will take you to Angel Fire. Featuring the state’s only high-speed lift system, Angel Fire will have you spending more time on the slopes, and less time in the lift maze. Wide open frontside cruisers abound, with steeper runs and bumps served up from the backside. The terrain park rules.
Blogger’s pick: Earn your turns on Nitro or Detonator, a short hike skier’s right from the Southwest Flyer lift.

Sipapu

Nestled just south of Angel Fire and Taos is Sipapu, boasting the longest season in the state. Family-friendly cruisers compliment a happy stash of steeps and glades here; Sipapu is a little mountain with some big surprises. Accommodations are also affordable, cozy, and just steps from the base lodge and lifts.
Blogger’s pick: Fantastic tree runs from Lift 4, with hidden chutes and drops in between.

Pajarito

Moving south towards Santa Fe, Pajarito Mountain sits atop the nuclear city of Los Alamos. Built by scientists from the labs in the 1940’s, Pajarito is a local’s favorite. While the mountain is well-known for it’s pitchy terrain (read: steeper than average), the biggest challenge here may be finding yourself in a lift-line. Crowds are noticeably absent, even on weekends.
Blogger’s pick: With moguls the size of Volkswagons, the Fab Four are a rite of passage for any New Mexico skier or rider.

Ski Santa Fe

Finally, into our state capitol of Santa Fe, and it’s namesake ski area (just 16 miles from town). With a base elevation of 10,350 feet – Ski Santa Fe collects fresh snow like a catcher’s mitt, and keeps it cold all winter long. The variety of terrain here is remarkable, with a myriad gladed shots from the summit taking high honors.
Blogger’s pick: Spaten and soup at Totemoff’s, cliffs and drops in the Big Rocks zone.

16 lift tickets, $300 (that’s less than $20 per ticket!)

We entreat you to join us this season on the Ski New Mexico membership team. Whether you’re exploring the slopes here for the first time, or coming back for more each season, we think you’ll like what you ski. At this value, it’s hard to think twice (HO!)

Contact Us & Buy Today

Pajarito to Open Dec.3

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Ski Season Opens Saturday, Dec. 3 for Pajarito Mountain!

Fresh Snow and Cold Temps Give Skiers Great Early Season Conditions!

For Immediate Release: Los Alamos, N.M.

Pajarito Mountain kicks off ski season this Saturday, Dec. 3 with top-to-bottom skiing and snowboarding on the Aspen Lift with access to Bruce’s Boulevard, and Lone Spruce.  Additional terrain may be available as conditions permit, including beginner terrain.

“Pajarito picked up eight inches of fresh snow with this latest storm and our snowmaking team has been very productive with our snowmaking efforts recently so we’ll open with top-to-bottom skiing,” stated Tom Long, general manager of Pajarito Mountain.  “Everyone will be ready to kick off Pajarito’s ski season on Saturday!”

Pajarito Mountain’s Aspen Lift will be open 9am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 3 and 4.  Discounted lift tickets are available at the Ticket Office, lift tickets are $29 for all skiers and snowboarders.  Pajarito will temporarily close on Dec. 5 to allow its crews to continue making snow with the goal of opening additional terrain.  Pajarito will resume mountain operations with lifts turning Friday, Dec. 9 through Sunday, Dec. 11.  Pajarito will then be open daily Fri., Dec. 16 through Sun., Jan. 1 during the holiday season.  For additional operating dates beyond Jan. 1, please visit the website.

This season, Pajarito is able to run the snowmaking system at its designed capacity, much more efficiently due to upgrades to the infrastructure over the summer.

“With our newly automated pump house, our snow guns have been able to operate at full capacity, helping us make the best snow possible,” Pajarito’s snowmaking manager, Tommy Long added, “Thanks to the additional investments we made to our snowmaking infrastructure, we’re now able to better utilize our dynamic system to make snow more efficiently and open the resort with great early season conditions!”

During operating dates, the Café is open 8am to 4pm for breakfast, lunch, and snacks, the rental shop is open 8am to 4:30pm, and Ski and Ride School is available for lessons.

New for this season!  Pajarito’s mountain team made enhancements to the ski area’s snowmaking system to support opening day and provide a great skier experience throughout the season.  Pajarito has automated the pump house, which allows the resort to make more snow and improve its efficiency, while providing more consistent snowmaking efforts.  Pajarito’s snow guns automatically adjust the ratio of water to air in relation to atmospheric conditions such as temperature, humidity, wind direction and speed.  These improvements will provide guests with enhanced snow quality and an overall better skiing experience all season.

For mountain updates and more details, visit Pajarito’s website.

10 ways to Score NM Lift Ticket Deals

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There are lots of great deals to be had this winter and at Ski New Mexico we are here to help you find them.  If you already know where you are headed or are trying to narrow it down look at New Mexico Ski Area specific deals and find what fits your family and your vacation best.

These are the Deals and Steal of the 2016-17 season so don’t miss out.  We can’t wait to see you on the slopes.

10 Deals and Steals to help you save this winter

1. Ski New Mexico Deals Page

Skiing and Snowboarding are great, active ways to spend time in nature, grow closer with family, and enjoy a vacation. Let Ski New Mexico help you find ways to save with our list of current Ski New Mexico Deals. We are always updating our deals so be sure to check back for the most current information. You can also check out season long deals by ski area.

2. Online Lift Ticket Deals from Liftopia

You can find some great date-specific discounts on Liftopia.com. Currently, there are tickets available November through March of next year for anywhere from 10%-49% off.  You must buy in advance, and some dates have deeper discounts than others. If your dates are flexible, you just may keep some money in your wallet.

3. Be a Fifth Grader

All children in the fifth grade ski for free at Sipapu and Angel Fire Resort! Bring a valid report card – hopefully all A’s! – and get ready to have a blast! Be sure to look online at each of the resorts’ materials needed to redeem this discount.

4. Go With a Group

Large groups receive discounts at Ski Santa Fe, Sandia, Red River Ski & Summer Area, Ski Taos Valley, and Ski Apache. Check their individual pages for group rates and requirements.

5. Go as a Family

Multiple resorts offer family deals. At Red River Ski & Summer Area, a parent who buys a 3+ day lift ticket can bring a child with them for free! Both Sipapu and Pajarito Mountain have “Car Load Days”. Bring your family (limit five per vehicle) and mention the deal to get discounted lift tickets for the group – only $50 at Sipapu and $99 at Pajarito. Sipapu also offers Parents Ski Free Week and Children Ski Free weeks. During those days, a parent lift ticket is free with the purchase of a child lift ticket or vice versa.

6. Be a Super Senior

Most Ski Areas offer discounts for seniors ranging from $15 season passes to free lift tickets! Visit each area’s website to learn more about what rules apply and ways you can save.

7. Military Discounts

All ski areas in New Mexico offer discounts to active duty military members. Sandia, Ski Santa Fe, Taos Ski Valley, Angel Fire Resort also provide discount for retired military members. Red River Ski & Summer Area also extend their military discount to the service member’s spouse and children. Ski Apache extends the military discount to the children of service members. Sipapu offers free lift tickets to active duty military personnel throughout the season with limited blackout dates.

8. Season Passes

Season passes are a great way to save money for the family of frequent skiers and snowboarders. Often times, resorts offer reciprocity with each other, which means your season pass could also get you free or discounted tickets at other resorts, in the US and abroad.

9 . Mountain Collective

If you usually ski in other areas, but still want New Mexico to be part of your trip, consider buying a Mountain Collective Pass. It offers two days at each of the included resorts for only $419 for adults and $99 for children while supplies last.

10. Ski New Mexico Membership

Become a member of Ski NM and you’ll also be buying a pass to all 8 ski areas.  The membership gets you 2 days at each area and the card is transferrable so you have all winter for you and your family to see all 8 areas in NM…twice. Ski New Mexico True Pass is $325 while supplies last. Order today

5 New Things We’re Stoked About This Season

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Emerald Quad debuts at Red River.

New Mexico’s sole lift installation for the 2016-17 season is happening at Red River, where the Green Chair is being replaced (and realigned) with the Emerald Chair. This four-seater quad will not only increase uphill capacity, it will also provide improved access to the family-friendly slopes of Summit Camp and the neighboring bumps and thrills off the Silver Chair. We can’t wait to ride it!

Boy Howdy! Lodge remodel and trail extension at Sipapu.

In yet another slew of mountain improvement at Sipapu, the historic day room and base area lodge are seeing a major remodel. The trails Howdy and Lower Bambi are also being extended, adding 5 acres of skiable terrain to Sipapu’s mountain stats.

Snowmaking improvements at Pajarito.

Pajarito has been hard at work improving their snowmaking system, and have replaced their water collection pump for this season. After already increasing their water holding pond over the last few years, opening day can’t come soon enough (November 25th!)

New Hotel Blake at Taos.

In the midst of their base area redevelopment, The Blake at Taos Ski Valley will open it’s doors this season. A premier, 80 room lodging property, The Blake will be centrally located to the establishments of Taos’ base area, and will provide ski-in/ ski-out access to Lift 1. Sign us up!

Angel Fire Celebrates 50 Years.

Wrapping up our stoke thread for the upcoming season, Angel FIre will be re-imagining it’s renowned Liberation Terrain Park under the supervision of Jon Eppler (whose resume includes the Winter X Games and Burton U.S. Open). In addition to some of the largest jumps, jibs and verticals in the state, Liberation will now feature a permanent boarder-cross course, as well as expanded “Stash Parks,” which feature non-conventional features throughout the mountain. Keep your digits dialed in here, as Angel Fire has some big plans in the pipeline for their 50th – including a week-long celebration in January.

2016-17 Opening Dates

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Updated Nov. 29, 2016

The tentative opening dates for the 2016-17 ski season are below.  Please note these dates all subject to weather and snowfall amounts.  Things are looking really good!  Keep doing your snow dance.

Sipapu –  Open Daily Starting Dec. 2, 2016

Red River Ski & Summer Area – Open Daily Starting Dec. 2, 2016

Ski Santa Fe  – Dec. 3, 2016

Pajarito  – Dec. 3, 2016

Angel Fire – Dec. 9, 2016

Taos Ski Valley –  Dec. 15, 2016

Sandia Peak – Dec. 17, 2016

Ski Apache – TBA (currently 0pen for sightseeing and zipline)

 

Final Days

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Ski Santa Fe and Taos and will continue to be open until April 3rd.  Sipapu Ski Area will be the last to close this winter staying open until April 10th.  So get up there while you still can to take part in these end-of-season events and take advantage of some spring savings.

AREAS STILL OPEN!

Sipapu – Daily operations end April 3rd, Re-opens for weekend operations April 9 & 10

Taos Ski Valley – Closing April 3rd

Ski Santa Fe – Closing April 3rd

EVENTS

Slush Cup 2016

Ski Santa Fe | April 2 @ Noon – 3:00 pm
Head to Totemoff’s Barr and Grill to witness this end-of-season annual spectacle, or participate and attempt to skim the pond. Win the Slush Cup designed by local art collective Meow Wolf. Costumes for skiers and riders are encouraged. Registration begins at 11 am. skisantafe.com

Pond Skimming Championships 

Taos Ski Valley | April 3
Celebrate the end of the season by laughing until your sides hurt at this must see event. skitaos.org

Sipapu Last to Close

Sipapu | Sunday, April 10, 2016 | 9:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Join us for our scheduled last day of the season! Sipapu re-opens for weekend operations April 9 & 10, 2016. Lift tickets are $25 for adults and teens, and $10 for kids and seniors. Lifts start turning at 9:30 a.m. Spring Super Season lift ticket rates are just $25 and under!

End of Season Deals & Events

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Spring skiing is in full swing and we are digging the beautiful weather. There’s still plenty of time to get in some shredding if you haven’t had your fill. Plus, warmer weather means you can lighten up on the layers, but be sure to heavy-up the sunscreen. Ski Apache, Ski Santa Fe and Taos and will continue to be open until April 3rd.  Sipapu Ski Area will be the last to close this winter staying open until April 10th.  So get up there while you still can to take part in these end-of-season events and take advantage of some spring savings.

AREAS STILL OPEN!

Sipapu – Closing April 10th  more info

Taos Ski Valley – Closing April 3rd

Ski Santa Fe – Closing April 3rd

Ski Apache – Closing April 3rd

 

DEALS

Spring Super Season – $25 Lift Tickets

Sipapu | March 21 – April 10
Get more info

 

$99 Spring Break Pass

Sipapu | March 28 – April 3
Unlimited skiing and riding at Sipapu and Pajarito. No restrictions. No blackout dates.
Get more info

 

Lift Tickets up to 25% off  & Save 15% on Adult Sport Rentals

Taos Ski Valley | thru April 2
Get more info

 

EVENTS

Spring Beer Festival

Taos Ski Valley | March 26 @ 3:30 – 6:00 pm
Head to Rhoda’s Deck to sample beers from all over the Southwest along with food samplings from several local Taos restaurants. 21 and over only. skitaos.org

 

Santa Fe Winter Music Series

Ski Santa Fe | March 26 @ Noon – 3:00 pm
Grab a beverage and enjoy live music by Pigment on the deck at Totemoff’s. Season pass or lift ticket is your cover charge. skisantafe.com

 

Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt

Sipapu | March 27, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Part scavenger hunt, part ski adventure; the scavenger hunt takes place on the mountain, lodge and base area. Search for laminated letters to spell BUNNY to receive a prize.sipapunm.com

 

Easter Egg Hunt

Taos Ski Valley | 9:00 am – Noon
Dress yourself in your finest Easter costume and search for Easter eggs filled with prizes. skitaos.org

 

Rail Jam

Ski Santa Fe | March 27 @ 5:00 pm
Skiers and riders show off their skill and style at Ski Santa Fe’s first ever Rail Jam. Spectators can check it out at Totemoffs Bar and Grill with music provided by DJ Reflex. Registration for participants begins at 9:30 am. skisantafe.com

 

Slush Cup 2016

Ski Santa Fe | April 2 @ Noon – 3:00 pm
Head to Totemoff’s Barr and Grill to witness this end-of-season annual spectacle, or participate and attempt to skim the pond. Win the Slush Cup designed by local art collective Meow Wolf. Costumes for skiers and riders are encouraged. Registration begins at 11 am. skisantafe.com

 

Pond Skimming Championships 

Taos Ski Valley | April 3
Celebrate the end of the season by laughing until your sides hurt at this must see event. skitaos.org

Pond Skimming 2016

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Ski Santa Fe, Ski Apache and Taos Ski Valley will be open until April 3rd. Sipapu will be open until April 10th, 2016.

The end of the ski and riding season is bittersweet, but this goodbye comes with some of the most looked-forward-to events of the year. It’s time for some pond skimming.

As the weather warms and the snow melts, resorts dig out an icy pool at the bottom of their slopes. Participants ski or ride down the slope and attempt to “skim” across the pond, hopefully (but not likely) without sinking.

Prizes are usually awarded for more than just making it across. Creativity will win you extra points with both the judges and the crowd. Costumes are highly encouraged. Optimism is required. A sense of self-preservation is optional.

Sipapu 12th Annual Pond Skimming Contest

Saturday, March 19 @ 1:00-3:00 pm

Fly down the mountain and attempt to skim across the frigid “Lake Sipapu” without getting wet. Prized will be awarded.   Enjoy some cold ones with Sierra Nevada following the event. Beer specials and brewery swag from 4:00-6:00 pm.   sipapunm.com

 

Red River Pond Skim and “That’s A Wrap” for the 2015/2016 Ski Season

Sunday, March 20 @ 3:00 pm

Dare to cross the frosty makeshift pond at the base of Gold Rush Hill. Costumes and silly accessories are encouraged. Prizes will be awarded for Best Splash, Best Costume, Best Run, and Best Team Effort. redriverskiarea.com

  

Ski Santa Fe Slush Cup 2016

Saturday, April 2 @ Noon – 3:00 pm

Head to Totemoff’s Barr and Grill to witness this end-of-season annual spectacle, or participate and attempt to skim the pond. Win the Slush Cup designed by local art collective Meow Wolf. Costumes for skiers and riders are encouraged. Registration begins at 11 am.

 

Taos Ski Valley Pond Skimming Championships

Sunday, April 3 @ Noon – 4:00 pm

Compete to skim across an ice-cold, 80-foot pool using any means necessary. Costumes earn extra points. Start planning your strategy now (no motorized vehicles). skitaos.org

NM Soups to warm your soul

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3 Authentic Soup Recipes to Take Home from New Mexico

New Mexico is known for its unique cuisine featuring fiery red and green Hatch chile, which is the perfect ingredient during the winter months to warm you from the inside out. We’ve compiled three traditional, yet simple, recipes for three New Mexican style soups that anyone can make at home. Many of these ingredients can be picked up at any market or grocery store during your trip to New Mexico and packed in your suitcase for the trip home. (Posole, frozen red and green chile, chile sauce, salsa, etc.) So when you’re feeling nostalgic, or craving something spicy, throw together a pot of one of these recipes; it’s comfort in a bowl.

Green Chile Stew

From Tasting New Mexico by Cheryl Alters Jamison and Bill Jamison via newmexico.org

  • 1½ to 1¾ pounds beef chuck or pork butt (shoulder), cut in ½-inch cubes
  • 2 medium onions, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 to 1¼ pounds red waxy potatoes, peeled or unpeeled, and diced
  • 5 cups beef or chicken stock
  • 1½ tablespoons salt or more to taste
  • 3 cups 505 Southwestern brand Hatch Valley Roasted Green Chile sauce (* substitute with any Green Chile sauce)
  • 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen, 1 cup carrot chunks, or 1 diced red bell pepper, optional

Directions

  1. Sear the meat in a Dutch oven or large heavy saucepan over medium-high heat until it browns and liquid accumulated from the meat mostly evaporates.
  2. Stir in the onions and garlic and cook for several minutes, until the onions become translucent. Pour in stock and scrape the mixture up from the bottom to loosen browned bits.
  3. Sprinkle in the salt, reduce the heat to a low simmer, and cook uncovered for 1¼ hours.
  4. Stir in the chile and any of the optional ingredients and continue cooking for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the meat is quite tender, the vegetables are soft, and the flavors have blended together.
  5. Ladle into bowls and serve hot.

Posole

Recipe source unknown. From staff member’s family recipe book.

  • 3-4 pound pork roast
  • 1 bag (2 lbs) of frozen posole
  • 2 chopped onions
  • 11 oz frozen red chile (try Bueno)
  • 11 oz chopped green chile
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 Tbsp cumin
  • 1 Tbsp oregano
  • 2 Tbsp Salt (to taste)
  • 6-8 cups of water

Directions

  1. Rinse posole. Add water to fill a 2 quart crockpot and cook overnight, or follow the instructions on the package.
  2. Cook pork roast until it is tender and falling apart. Drain and shred pork.
  3. Mix all ingredients in large pot. Add water until the desired consistency is reached. Bring to boil. Cover and simmer for 4 hours.
  4. Serve with red and green chile on the side and warm tortillas. Garnish with cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges.

Green Chile Chicken Tortilla Soup

From El Pinto Restaurant & Cantina in Albuquerque, New Mexico

  • One large onion, diced
  • Five garlic cloves, minced
  • Two turns around the pan of olive oil
  • One rotisserie chicken worth of chicken (approximately 5 cups), taken off the bone and skin and pulled apart or diced into bite size pieces
  • 2 – 16oz jars of green chile sauce/salsa (NOT Enchilada sauce – I used El Pinto)
  • One can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 Cup frozen corn kernels
  • 3 cups chicken stock
  • 1 tsp. cumin
  • 1 tsp. ground black pepper
  • 2-3 Tbsp fajita or taco seasoning (depending on your taste)

Directions

In a large saucepan over medium heat sauté onions & garlic in olive oil until soft. Add chicken, salsa, beans, corn, stock and spices. Add water to cover, if needed. Simmer for at least 30 minutes. Season to taste. Serve either on top of or with tortilla chips with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheddar and/or Monterey Jack cheese.

Spring Break Top Deals & Activities

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It’s just around the corner. Spring Break! The kids have been ready since right about, oh, January 1st. Hopefully you’re headed to New Mexico to ski or snowboard and enjoy some beautiful weather in the mountains. There’s no better month than March for a family vacation in the Land of Enchantment. Many of the ski areas offer great deals for kids and family-friendly events happening all over the state. We can’t wait to see you, it’ll be a vacation to remember.

Here’s our top 6 deals and top 5 activities to do with your kids while visiting New Mexico’s slopes.

Top 6 Deals For Kids:

  1. Kids 6 and younger ski free: If you’re thinking your kids are too young for a ski trip, think again. When they are young they are fearless and can really begin to foster a joy for the sport. Plus they’re free!
  1. Free Lessons for First Timers at Sipapu: Don’t worry if your kids have never been on the slopes before. Bring them to Sipapu to join the Frequent Sliders Club, where first-time skiers or snowboarders, ages 7 and older, can receive up to three free lessons when they purchase one full-day, full-price lift ticket. sipapunm.com
  1. Santa Fe Spring Break 2016 Kids Free: You’ll find free stuff for kids all around the capitol city during the month of March including attractions, dining, and lodging specials. Save some money this Spring Break and plan in advance. santafe.org
  1. Ski Santa Fe Six Pack of Fun: The Six Pack works in so many ways to get you some much needed savings on full day lift tickets. If you have a big group or your smaller group wants to ski several days, you can’t NOT get one of these. The discounted lift tickets are transferrable so you can use them all yourself, OR split them up among a family of six, OR a family of three can ski two days… you get the picture. skisantafe.com
  1. Angel Fire’s Parenting Pass: New parents can enjoy Spring Break too at Angel Fire. This pass allows parents to share a full day lift ticket and take turns on the mountain skiing, coaching or skiing with a child. It also allows a parent to stay with a child too young to ski, while the other get in some runs. Some restrictions do apply. angelfireresort.com
  1. Taos – Save up to 25%: Don’t miss this opportunity to buy discounted full day lift tickets for the largest ski resort in NM. Buy online now and save up to 25%. skitaos.com

 

Top 5 Activities for Kids

  1. Ski School: Our ski areas pride themselves on their top-notch, full-service ski instruction for all ages. If your little ones are new to the sport or just improving their skills, there’s a class for them at any ski resort. Most resorts even have all-day programs, with lunch provided, where parents can feel confident that their kids are learning in a fun, safe environment.
  1. Tubing and Sledding: What kid doesn’t want to go flying down a hill at top speed? There are sledding areas all around the state and each town has their own favorite play hills, however Angel Fire, Taos, Red River, Ski Apache all have designated tubing hills and/or times of day when tubing is permitted on certain slopes.
  1. Torchlight Parade and Fireworks: Don’t miss this event if you are in or near Red River on Saturday evening. Every weekend Angel Fire Resort hosts this free event on the FACE (the base of the mountain). Each evening kicks off with a rail jam with skiers and snowboarders showing off their best tricks and stunts for the crowd. The parade is followed by fireworks in the skies over the mountain. This is an event the kids will always remember. redriverskiarea.com
  1. Night Skiing and Tubing: Angel Fire Resort it is the only ski area in NM that offers the opportunity to ski under the starts, an experience the kids will love to tell their friends about. Shred 50 acres of groomed trails and event he Night Rider terrain park will be open every night during Spring Break. Also open at night, the Polar Coaster, a 6-lane tubing hill for the whole family to enjoy.
  1. Snowball Fights: Anytime there’s snow nearby it’s impossible not to be tempted. All you have to do is scoop, pat, and let ‘er rip. It’s good, (free), family fun again and again.

Top 10 Other Winter Activities

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We may be having a great season here in New Mexico. The skiing and snowboarding has been awesome, but there’s much more to it than going up and down the mountain. In fact, everyone can find a reason to get out and enjoy this snow, not just skiers and snowboarders, everyone. If you’re planning a trip and want to make sure there are enough activities on the agenda, especially for the non-skiers in the group, then this list is for you. Here’s our top 10 other winter activities to enjoy while visiting New Mexico:

1. Snowshoeing

If you can walk, you can snow shoe. It’s that easy. Just strap on a pair of snowshoes, available to rent at most ski shops, and hit the backcountry. This activity can be as easy or challenging as you make it.
Where: All but these have dedicated snowshoe trails: Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area, Chama Cross Country, Angel Fire Nordic

2. Tubing

Got kids? Or do you want to feel like a kid again? Hop on a tube and fly down a hill. Works every time. Some of the ski areas have official tubing slopes or times of day that open specifically for tubing and even groomed for the activity.
Where: Angel Fire, Taos, Red River, Ruidoso

3. Sledding

See previous, only using a different vehicle. There are many dedicated sledding spots that are separate from the tube-only hills at the ski resorts. Sleds and tubes can be rented and purchased at almost any ski shops. Check out Trip Advisor for the best spots near you.

4. Ski Bike

If you love to mountain bike this could be your snow sport of choice. Part skis, part bike and a whole lot of fun.
Where: Angel Fire, Sipapu even offers ski bike lessons and rentals

5. Snowmobiling

There are lots of great areas to snowmobile near all of New Mexico’s ski area, each offering guided tours through the gorgeous scenery and backcountry. Particularly great for those who love to rev an engine. Find an open meadow and blast around and explore at your own pace.
Where: Angel Fire, Taos Ski Valley, Red River

6. Sleigh rides

Add this to your agenda for a romantic ride with your sweetie or to enjoy a jolly outing with an outgoing group. Sip hot cocoa and cuddle up while a horse drawn sleigh gently glides you through the frozen landscape.
Where: Angel Fire

7. Shopping

New Mexico is seeping with culture and you’ll want to take a piece of it home with you. While touring around any city or ski town and you’ll find shops and galleries galore to find a trinket or treasure to remind you of your trip. Browse art galleries, handmade jewelry, Native American wares and so much more.

8. Cross Country Skiing

Maybe going downhill isn’t your thing. That’s okay. Cross country skiing may help you feel more in control as you trek across the snow and into the backcountry of New Mexico. It’s also a GREAT workout.
Where: Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area, Chama Cross Country, Angel Fire Nordic

9. Terrain Parks

All 8 areas have a terrain park and there are jumps, rails, fun boxes and tabletops for all levels.  This is a fun place to get some great videos and pictures to share on Instagram. Don’t forget to tag them with #SkiNewMexico.

10. Skin up and ski down

Need an extra challenge or want to burn some more calories on the hill? Skin up; it’s like cross country skiing, only up the mountain. You’ll attach a skin to the bottom your skis that allow you to slide forward, but not backward, and hike up the hill. When you reach the top you’ll take off the skins and ski back down. I mean, who needs a lift anway? That’s the lazy way!

Here is another great list of things to do for the whole family this winter.

Compare And Save – Ski NM

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I was born and raised in NM to a big skiing family.  We love to ski and board.  I’ve skied at every ski area in NM and enjoy them all; each resort is unique and has a little something different to offer.  The best part of living in Albuquerque is that we can be on the mountain in only a couple of hours as the New Mexico ski resorts are only a short drive away.

We recently went with a group of friends to Aspen, Colorado to ski the infamous mountain.  Those who were unable to join us were envious. “Aspen. So cool,” they would say vicariously as we readied for our trip. And yes, it was cool. Aspen is legendary. Aspen is beautiful. Aspen’s views are breathtaking. And so were the prices.

Turns out, Colorado skiing is very expensive.

We chose to drive the 9 hours north from Albuquerque to Aspen.  After looking at flights we found Aspen was still a four-hour drive from the Denver airport so it just made sense to drive. At least we saved money doing so. It was the only savings we saw for the rest of the trip.

Compare The Cost

As we drove into town we stopped at a local grocery store hoping to find a deal on lift tickets. It’s common to find discounted lift tickets at grocery stores in other Colorado ski towns, but this time it was no dice.  We’d be paying full price for our lift tickets. For two days of skiing we are already in $260 per person.  That’s $140 per day for full day tickets and the lifts close at 3:30 p.m.  Back home in NM, you won’t pay more than $85 a day (most passes are less) at any of the 8 NM ski resorts. Plus, NM area lifts don’t close until 4:00 or 4:30.

“Ok, no biggie. It’s Aspen.” I told myself and just surrendered to the expense.

Next, we headed off to find our lodging for the trip. We had booked a modest one bedroom condo for our group of 5 that set us back $375 per night for three nights. Thank goodness for friends, as we were able to split the total among those who stayed with us. This seems steep in comparison to similar condos back home in NM which range from $185 to $225 a night depending on location and resort.

Now here’s the really frustrating part for most many skiers, rentals.  It can be a hassle and take up a lot of time that you’d rather be, well, skiing. Luckily we have our own equipment, but one of our friends did not and needed to find local rentals.  Renting on the mountain was going to be a cool $80 per day.  That’s outrageous…even for Aspen.  Fortunately, we were able to find him an off mountain rental that was $55 per day.  This is when the sticker shock started to really seep in. We’re used to rentals in NM that average $40 per day on the mountain and around $22 per day off mountain.

Our first full day of skiing we headed out to Snowmass, a mountain with a ton of diverse terrain.  We spent a lot of our day traversing the mountain just trying to check it all out.  The runs were similar to any mountain in New Mexico.  At midday, we stopped for lunch at the base of the mountain and had a customary burger (gotta try a burger from every mountain we ski), with an adult beverage. Lunch cost $30… each.  Over all we had a nice day, but I’m sad to say it wasn’t much better than a day at any one of the ski areas in New Mexico, which have plenty of beginner and intermediate runs mixed with lots of steep challenging terrain.

We ended the day with a so-so dinner. It was good but nothing to write home about and still cost each of us another $50 for appetizers, drinks and dessert.

The second day a couple of us headed to Aspen while the rest stayed at Snowmass.  We were warned that Aspen was too hard for some of the intermediate/beginner skiers in our group. I would say Aspen is a very similar mountain to Taos, the black and double black runs at Aspen are no harder than anything at Taos Ski Valley.  Taos has some very cool terrain that can challenge even the best skiers in the world. Yet they also have lots of intermediate and beginner trails, which Aspen did not.  It was a bummer for our group to split up between the two mountains because of ability. The two mountains were 40 minutes apart, so meeting up for lunch was even out of the question. We prefer a ski resort that skiers of all skill levels can enjoy and have a great time.  Meeting at the bottom and grabbing the lift up together just makes for a better group trip.

Lunch on this day was about the same as the day before, minus drinks, which came to about $20 per person.

Our group finally reunited for dinner in Aspen for a moderately priced meal, for Aspen that is.  Our meal cost $70 each at a restaurant we found on Yelp rated at $$. The food was good, but not special.  There are so many amazing restaurants in all the New Mexico ski towns that would blow this one out of the water at a fraction of the price.  We must be spoiled by the authentic cuisine that can only be found in New Mexico.

We love NM

As we headed back to the Land of Enchantment, I reflected on our trip and mostly my bank account. I realized how great New Mexico really is and how skiing, which I’m aware isn’t an inexpensive hobby, is so much more affordable in my own backyard.  I can only imagine the expense of taking a family with kids to ski in Colorado. But why would you?  Our mountains are really spectacular, with diverse terrain that any skier can enjoy, and great food and culture surrounding it all.  After doing a little math as we drove, you’re looking at a fifty percent savings to ski in New Mexico.

Monica Christofferson
Avid New Mexico Skier

A Season You Dream About

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New Mexico Is Having ‘One Of Those Seasons You Dream About’

For the full article on Unofficial Networks click here

Normally known for a desert climate that lacks precipitation, New Mexico’s mountains are an anomaly and with this year’s El Niño blowing storm after storm through the southwest, Taos Ski Valley is acting as 2016’s figurehead for deep snow, no lift lines, and rowdy terrain. So far, the resort is reporting a season total of 157″ of consistent snowfall and cold temperatures that is providing for all-time conditions down south.

Base @Taos = 96″!

So much so that world-renowned action photographers such asJimmy Chin and Chris Figenshau have been busy snapping shots of Jeremy Jones, Sierra Quitiquit, and Cody Townsend over the past week in what appear to be some of the deepest photographs of the year.

And it’s not just Taos that’s getting the goods. In an interview with KOAT.com, Ski Santa Fe manager Ben Abruzzo told one reporter, “it’s been as good as we’ve seen in quite a long time, and it just keeps coming,” to which he later added “this is one of those seasons you dream about.” 

Ski Santa Fe is currently reporting a base depth of 98″!

Taos 4Deep Day @Taos | Photo Credit: Taos Ski Valley Facebook Page

As the year progresses, resort officials are hoping that additional storms and cold temperatures will push the season into late April but right now officials are happy to report that skier-visits are up 30% at places like Ski Santa Fe according to KOAT Albuquerque.

Let it snow!

Taos 7Some of the best tree skiing in the world @SkiTaos | Photo Credit: Taos Ski Valley Facebook Page

Read the entire KOAT.com article here: Business booming on New Mexico ski slopes

Off The Beaten Slope

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It’s not for every skier. It will challenge your stamina mentally, physically and probably even emotionally.  But those who seek it out find it to be a transformative crucible. Some of the most beautiful, rugged terrain and pristine powder can be accessed if you are willing to take the climb.

Hiking is appealing for several reasons. First, the snow is often untouched: soft, downy, powder at its finest. There’s no race to get first-tracks.  Second is the solitude. Not every skier can tackle this kind of terrain so the few who dare are more or less alone in their efforts.  However, hikers have an intrinsic bond; all who attempt earn their right to be there.  Third, the thrill of it.  Climbing to the highest point on the mountain will feel like you’re on top of the world.  Going down will test your skills and push your limits. Every run is an adventure, providing the possibility for discovery and self-reflection.

Angel Fire’s hike access trail can be reached by taking the Southwest Flyer lift to the top. There you’ll hike to the top of the ridge, elevation of 10,800 feet.  These runs are designated for advanced skiers yet are especially great for those who are new to hiking or just getting the hang of it.

For those who are experienced, Taos Ski Valley offers the most hike access in the state with three areas of skiable terrain.  The West Basin features some of the precipitous runs and can be accessed by a short hike from Lift #2.  Highline Ridge, with spectacular vistas and an almost endless supply of powder, can be reached by moderate hike from Lift #2 and #7A.  The mother of all hikes, Kachina Peak, summits at 12,481 feet and once required a grueling 45 minute hike, but the new Kachina Peak Lift takes you there in 5 minutes.  Kachina offers some of the most paramount skiing in North America.

Are you ready to take on the wild side of the mountain? If you’re looking to expand your skills and want as much of a challenge going up and as you get going down, go take a hike.

Fun, Fun February

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February kicks off with a Winter Storm Warning across northern and western New Mexico, bringing a blanket of fresh powder to the slopes in preparation for another outstanding month of skiing and some spirited events in Angel Fire and Red River.

You may not think of a small ski town deep in the mountains of northern New Mexico when you think of Mardi Gras. But that’s only until you attend their parties. Both Angel Fire and Red River make Mardi Gras a big deal, both on the mountain and around town. If you’d rather be skiing than at the real thing, check out these bead-slinging celebrations instead.

Angel Fire bring this Big Easy to the mountain with live music, parades, a masquerade ball and plenty more. This is also the week they host the 2016 World Championship Shovel Races. Register to participate or come to spectate this must-attend event that made the Jettsetter’s list of 11 Craziest Winter Adventures and the Men’s Journal list of World Championships You Can Win!

Red River goes into full carnival-mode for Mardi Gras in the Mountains. This year’s theme is the Roaring 20’s and festivities include costume balls, bead tossing, Cajun and Creole food, parades, costume contests, crawfish boils, and so much more. The week kicks off with the Burning of the Loup-garou, a fictional character that has become the mascot of the Mardi Gras in the Mountains. Much like Santa Fe’s Zozobra, Loup-garou is set on fire as party goers write down their worries and troubles and throw them into the blaze. Gather your family and friends, aka. your “krewe”, because more is merrier during this exciting week in Red River.

Angel Fire

Mardi Gras Celebration at Angel Fire Resort

February 5-9, 2016

Daily specials, live music, parades and a masquerade ball. angelfireresort.com

2016 World Championship Shovel Races presented by Lowe’s Valley Market

February 5-6, 2016

Shovels do all the hard work. It’s their turn to have some fun! Exciting, high-speed races take place at Angel Fire Resort. Friday is practice and registration day. $5 for practice runs (refunded for racers). Saturday is Race Day starting at 9:30 a.m.   See site for more details about registration and detailed schedule.

Red River

Mardi Gras in the Mountains

February 4-9, 2016

Week-long party is non-stop with events including costume balls, bead tossing, singing and dancing, parades, kids costume contest, cajun cooking, burning of the Loup-garou, crawfish boils, downhill gator race, and more. For more info and a detailed schedule of events, visit redriverchamber.org

El Niño Is Not Over Yet

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The all-mighty El Niño has made its presence known in New Mexico this winter and we couldn’t be more thrilled.

Brett Nichols, Marketing Manager at Ski Apache near Ruidoso agrees, “It’s great to see people so excited about the conditions and it just helps the overall feel, moral at the resort. Catch a smile at Ski Apache! With all the new snow smiles are contagious here.”

The colder and wetter weather that the National Weather Service forecasted back in November brought one powder producing storm after another, contributing to some of the best base levels in years at ski areas across the state.

Ski Apache has received “about double [base depth] from what we were at last year. Over 126 inches so far. We get fresh snowfall that the powder is refreshed very frequently over past seasons,“ Nichols said.

Ski Apache’s season got a kick-start in December when a historic storm dumped 41 inches of powder. The same storm brought 30 inches of snow to Sandia Ski Area in Albuquerque enabling the mountain to open and has remained opened since.  If Sandia Ski Area is having a great season, you can bet ski resorts in the northern half of the state have copious amounts of snow as well.

The good news is it’s not over. The snow should keep coming in the core winter months, according to the NOAA.  “January through March 2016 to trend wetter than usual over much of the southern tier of the nation, from California into the Desert Southwest to the southern and central Plains, as well as the Gulf Coast and Southeast coast, including Florida.”

This image from the Climate Prediction Center shows most of New Mexico in a zone of where temperatures to be a negative anomaly, or colder than average.

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Even Meterologist Chris Tomer at onethesnow.com predicts “better odds of a wet, stormy winter in southern California and the desert Southwest.” This image shows New Mexico right in the path of above normal snow and rain.

We can’t guarantee that there won’t be dry spells, even El Niño is prone to them, but we definitely like the odds for more powder days this winter. Take advantage of the great conditions in our beautiful state. If you’ve never skied here, this is the year to explore our beautiful mountains.

Start planning your Spring Break vacations now. The snow will surely be here.

Winter Festivals in January

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Yes, there’s amazing snow. Yes, this is the best time to come ski any of New Mexico’s ski areas. And yes, there’s so much to do in addition to skiing. Schedule one of these events into your visit to Taos or Angel Fire. Each of these ski towns offers a unique experiences with so much to explore. Mark your calendar for these Festival events coming up in January.

January 22-24

Big O’ Texas Weekend in Angel Fire.

Everything’s bigger in Angel Fire on this weekend where the whole town celebrates all things Texas. Come enjoy live music, discounted lift tickets, a Texas Hold’em poker tournament and a 72 oz. steak eating challenge. It’ll be party you don’t want to miss. See y’all there! Schedule of events here angelfireresort.com

January 27-31

Taos Winter Wine Festival

This four day celebration of food and wine is a can’t miss event for foodies and wine connoisseur’s. The weekend includes wine seminars, wine dinners, and tastings with local restaurants and over 40 national wineries.

Grand Tasting is Jan. 30 @ 4:00-6:30 pm | $75
The main event, the Grand Tasting, takes place on the mountain at the base of chair lift #1at Taos Ski Valley Resort Center. Get your tickets early to sample some more than 150 wines and some local flavors from a dozen of Taos’s finest restaurants at one of the most popular Apres Ski events in the state. taoswinterwinefest.com or visit their facebook page

Take the opportunity to explore the great town of Taos. Check out the Plaza, great galleries, food, shopping, and visit the Taos Pueblo.

MLK Weekend Events

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For many, it’s a long holiday which means more hours you can spend in the snow and on the mountain.  Get out and enjoy the best winter ski season New Mexico has seen in decades.  Here’s who’s open and what’s happening:

Sandia Peak Ski Area

Open Friday – Sunday + Monday, January 18
They’ve got snow and yes, they are open. You can fit in all your MLK-Day plans AND get in some great runs. Just hop on up the Tram and go.

Pajarito Mountain

Open Wednesday – Sunday + Monday, January 18
With school out, it might be nice weekend to get this kids on the slopes. Kids 6 and younger ski free.

Weekend Events

BEER & BAND

January 16 at Pajarito Mountain
Apres ski, enjoy live music by Paradox Jazz Quintet and local craft beer by Bathtub Row Brewing Co-op.

RED RIVER SKIJORING

January 15-17 in Red River on River Street
Skijoring is defined as being pulled on skis by an animal; in this case skiers are pulled by horses. This competitive event is the first in the Skijor America’s cup series and is expected to draw many competitors. Come check out this thrilling spectator sport followed by parties and live music around town including Jason Boland & the Stragglers at the Motherlode Saloon on Saturday at 8:30 p.m. redriverskijoring.com

CHAMA CHILE SKI CLASS AND WINTER FIESTA

January 16-18 at Ski Chama
The 43rd annual cross country ski events include freestyle and classic style races, snowshoe races, snow bike race and more.  Events for the whole family; enter the insects/bugs themed costume contest. Live music and beer tasting. skichama.com  or facebook.com/skichama

SANTA FE BREWING HAPPY HOPS HUNT

Saturday, January 16 @ 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.at Sipapu
Join Santa Fe Brewing on a mountain-side scavenger hunt for SFB cans stuffed with prizes. Follow Sipapu’s Facebook and Twitter pages on the day of for clues and redeem prizes at the base area. This event is happening during the annual Telemark Festival which features free Telemark clinics and personal instruction. After the lifts close, be sure to stay for the Freeheel Fray (the skin-up, ski-down race). Santa Fe Brewing will be on site with beer specials all evening.

Where to eat!

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A full day of skiing can really work up an appetite and deciding where to go once you’re finally off the mountain can be daunting. So before you get too hungry remember we’ve already put together a list of tried and true spots near each of New Mexico’s fine ski areas where you’ll find great food and local flavor.

Red River

 

Sundance Restaurant
401 E. High Street
Red River, NM 87558
redrivernm.com/sundance

Open for dinner only, this is a great first stop after the lifts close to fill your belly with some home-style New Mexican food. Enchiladas, tacos, and chile rellenos are favorite fare of the locals. All plates are smothered in red or green chile (or both) and can be ordered as hot or mild in spiciness; go for hot and get the house specialty Agave Wine Margarita to cool you back down.

Texas Reds Steakhouse
400 E. Main St.
Red River, NM 87558
texasredssteakhouse.com

This old western steakhouse is a landmark in Red River. The menu, which caters to meat lovers, features steaks, prime rib, and burgers galore (including buffalo and elk). Vegetarians will not starve, however, with a meal easily built from their sides menu. Think baked potato, sautéed mushrooms, fried okra and more. Though the food is good, it’s the live music that draws visitors to this popular eatery on the weekends in the Lost Love Saloon.

Taos

 

Stray Dog Cantina
105 Sutton Pl
Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525
straydogtsv.com

This cozy restaurant is conveniently located at the base of the ski valley, perfect for an après bite and boozing. If you’re a chile fanatic or a fanatic-to-be, you’ll fall hard for their 100% guaranteed flame roasted red and green chile. They even serve breakfast if you need a chile fix before hitting the mountain.

El Monte Sagrado
317 Kit Carson Rd
Taos, NM 8757
elmontesagrado.com

If you’re looking for something a little upscale or romantic, De La Tierra at the hotel El Monte Segrado will fit the bill where Executive Chef Ray Naranjo has created a menu featuring “Contemporary Indigenous Gastronomy” with local inspiration. You can also enjoy the Anaconda Bar if you’re hoping to find a unique atmosphere with creative cocktails.

Ruidoso

 

Rio Grande Grill & Tap Room
441 Mechem Dr.
Ruidoso, NM 88345
sierrablancabrewery.com/rio_grande

Local brewers Sierra Blanca Brewery opened this tap room in 2013 serving all of their craft beers as well as incredible food; it’s quickly become a destination for locals and visitors alike. Try a sampler of their craft beers and even get a growler of your favorite to take home with you. A great atmosphere for winding down after a long ski day.

Cornerstone Bakery & Cafe Co
359 Sudderth Dr,
Ruidoso, NM 88345
cornerstonebakerycafe.com

This friendly bakery is a favorite in Ruidoso for breakfast, lunch, and for their superior sweet treats.

Come in for a warm breakfast – traditional or with a New Mexican flair – before hitting they slopes. You can’t visit New Mexico without having at least one plate of Huevos Rancheros (or five) and theirs won’t disappoint. The cinnamon rolls and pecan pastries with piñon coffee are delectable and share-worthy.

Angel Fire

 

Hail’s Holy Smoked BBQ & More
3400 NM-434
Angel Fire, NM 87710
hailsholysmokedbbq.com

What’s more satisfying after a cold day on the slopes than some good ol’ Texas BBQ. This low-key, locally owned and operated restaurant serves up a balanced blend of Texas style barbecue and New Mexico fare that receives high accolades from our Texas visitors and beyond. Just try one of the burritos and you’ll see why.

Santa Fe

 

Secreto Lounge
210 Don Gaspar Avenue, Suite A
Santa Fe, NM 87501
secretolounge.com

Slide off the slopes into the heart of Santa Fe at the bar in the Hotel St. Francis for premier craft cocktails and appetizers, where everything including drinks are made fresh, local and organic. The New Mexican inspired bites pair delightfully with a unique menu of award-winning cocktails including their signature drink, the Spicy Secreto or the very popular Smoked Sage Margarita.

Old House Restaurant
309 W San Francisco St.
Santa Fe, NM 87501
eldoradohotel.com/dining-nightlife/old-house

Hotel Eldorado, located just a short walk from the Santa Fe Plaza, houses this award-winning restaurant serving contemporary global cuisine. Known for their dry-aged rib eye steaks and green chile mac and cheese, this cozy destination serves the freshest seasonal and local ingredients from nearby farms. The outstanding menu will curb your hunger after a long day on the mountain.

Albuquerque

 

Sandiago’s Mexican Grill & High Finance Restaurant and Tavern
40 Tramway Rd. NE
Albuquerque, NM 87122
sandiapeakrestaurants.com

If you are lucky enough to get to ski Sandia Ski Area this year, then you just might want to work one or both of these into your day. Both restaurants are located on the city side of the Sandia mountains; one is one top, the other the bottom. Both have remarkably beautiful views of Albuquerque.

High Finance resides at the top, two miles above the city, and serves tram-goers and skiers alike. The restaurant serves a satisfying lunch with fine sandwiches, burgers, and fresh Green Chile Beef Stew. Skiers love to hit the bar for appetizers and a beer before, during or after their runs.

At the end of your day, take the tram to the base of the mountain to Sandiago’s to enjoy dinner with the best view of the city’s breathtaking sunsets. Coastal Mexican fare is on the menu along with refreshing specialty drinks; try the Blood Orange Margarita.

 

KOAT Learn to Ski Program

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KOAT 7 in cooperation with Ski New Mexico and all eight of its alpine resorts are pleased to again join the nationwide efforts of “Learn a Winter Sports Month” this January.

More than 6,000 children have benefited from the KOAT Kids Learn to Ski & Snowboard program— now entering its fifth year. For $50.00 per day, participating children age 6 to 12 receive a lesson, ski lift ticket, and all equipment rentals. It’s an affordable way for children to learn a winter sport. This program is for first time “beginners”. The program starts on Jan. 1, 2016 and runs through Jan. 31, 2016.

Reservations are required and are being taken from January 1, 2016 through January 31, 2016. Those wanting to make a reservation must contact the desired resort directly. Participating resorts are:

Angel Fire Resort: 1-844-218-4107
Pajarito Mt.: 505-662-5725
Red River Ski Area: 575-754-2223 x 602
Sandia Peak Ski Area: 505-242-9052
Sipapu Ski Resort: 800-587-2240
Ski Apache: 575-464-3643
Ski Santa Fe: 505-992-5084
Taos Ski Valley: 575-776-2291 ext. 2240

 

Read the proclamation signed by the Governor of New Mexico. Declaring January the learn a snowsport month in New Mexico.  2016.LEARN.A.SNOW.SPORT.MONTH

BrewSki 2016

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As if skiing all day isn’t enjoyable enough, New Mexico ski areas are taking it up a notch again this year with exciting beer-centric events featuring local breweries, entertainment and plain old fun. Plan your trip or weekend to coincide with one (or many) of these “BrewSki” events:

Ski Santa Fe Winter Music Series – Ongoing

Saturday, March 19: Sean Healen @ Noon – 3 p.m.
at Ski Santa Fe

Live music by Sean Healen on the deck at Totemoff’s, the mid-mountain bar and grill and craft brews from a local brewery. Daily lift ticket or season pass is your cover charge.

Skiesta

Saturday, March 19 @ 9 a.m.-4 p.m
at Pajarito Mountain

Partake in snow and costume events and competitions, including a Pinhead Challenge, GS Race, Sloppy Slalom, Kids Tee Pee Race, rail jam moguls, and a jump contest. Enjoy local brews from over 6 breweries at the New Mexico Beer Association Beer Garden, plus the annual crowning of Pajarito Mountain King and Queen. Participation requires registration and a signed waiver. 

Fat Paddy Mountain Bike Race

Saturday, March 19
at Angel Fire Mountain Resort

Break out your fat tire mountain bike as the winter season comes to a close and hit the dirt for some friendly competitions, beer, and fun. Don’t forget to dress up in your St. Paddy’s attire!

Be sure to join us for a an ice cold New Mexico crafted brewski…or two.

 

Sandia Peak Opens Dec. 26th!

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Sandia Peak will open for the 2015-2016 ski season on Saturday December 26th, 2015.

Sandia Peak will open with 75% of the trails on a 12 inch base. Lifts 1,3,4 and the Mitey Mite will be running to take you up for some great skiing and boarding. The recent storm brought 9 inches of new snow and our crews have been hard at work getting the mountain ready.

All facilities will be open including the Double Eagle II Cafeteria, Snow Sports School, Cubby Corner Children’s Facility, Rental Shop and Sandia Peak Sports Shop. Skiing can be accessed from Highway 536 or the Sandia Peak Tramway.

Ticket Rates:

Normal ticket prices will apply.

Ski Area Hours 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Half day – AM 9:00 am to 12:30 pm, or PM -12:30 pm to 4:00 pm

For more information visit us at www.sandiapeak.com

The GoPro Movement

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There’s a high-tech gadget that may be high on the Christmas list of many skiers this year. Are you hoping Santa will drop a GoPro, or similar camera, in your stocking this year?

The GoPro movement has hit the slopes pretty hard the last few seasons. It’s difficult to find a skier or snowboarder who isn’t sporting one of the popular high definition cameras these days. These rugged little cameras are fitted perfectly for capturing extreme sports, especially skiing and snowboarding since they are shockproof and waterproof. GoPro’s, and similar cameras, can be mounted in many different ways to capture multiple points of view; helmet, chest, ski poles, boots, even your skis provide different angles and interesting footage.

The “movement” has allowed skiers and snowboarders to record their every move on the slopes from their first-hand perspective to share with friends and family or on social media. The viewer often feels as though they are experiencing it for themselves.

These cameras have become a great tool for capturing special moments on the mountain, such as the very first run for a beginner, or mishaps such an epic bail off the ski lift. They’re also being used to create video reviews and demonstrations, since it’s much more effective to show someone how to do something or why something is great, than to tell them.

GoPro’s have really made a mark in the skiing industry due to their ability to display one’s passion for the sport; Expressing what we love most about being on the mountain in a way that words just don’t do justice. Which bring us to our video challenge:

How do you #SkiNewMexico?

We want to see what you love about skiing in NM. Maybe it’s the blue skies, a particular vista, your preferred ski area, or a special après-ski destination. Use those cameras to make a video featuring your favorite thing about skiing in New Mexico.

Share your videos on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and be sure tag them with #SkiNewMexico. We’ll even feature our favorites right here on our blog.