Top 3 Ski Resorts in New Mexico
by Aventura on March 15, 2023
New Mexico skiing is one of the best-kept secrets in the country. The state has some truly fantastic ski resorts that are sure to satisfy skiers and snowboarders alike. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s something for everyone when it comes to New Mexico skiing.
New Mexico's ski season typically lasts from approximately the middle of December until the middle of March. Even though the resorts are at a higher altitude, the intense sun and southern position sometimes cause the snow to melt fast, especially in the spring.
New Mexico’s lack of snow sometimes makes it difficult to believe that a ski area exists in the Land of Enchantment. But believe it or not, there are a few places where you can find some powdery white stuff. Here’s an insider’s guide to New Mexico skiing.
The Top 3 Ski Resorts in New Mexico for 2023
New Mexico is known for its beautiful scenery, especially when it comes to skiing. There are several ski resorts in the area that offer some of the best skiing in the country. They have great snow conditions and amazing views, so if you want to enjoy a day on the slopes, then this is the place to go.
You can find the majority of the ski areas in the Sandia Mountains, which are located to the northeast of Albuquerque. You won't spend much time waiting in line at the lifts in New Mexico's resorts, and they're a lot of fun. Surprisingly low prices make this a great place to go skiing.
You can easily visit many different mountains in one ski vacation if you base yourself in Taos or, to a lesser degree, Santa Fe, where many of the ski resorts are located. If you have the time and are looking to add a few more resorts to your list of conquests, we highly recommend visiting each of these destinations:
Taos Ski Valley is the most popular and oldest ski area in New Mexico, established in 1939. Taos is consistently ranked as one of the best ski resorts and destinations in the country. The resort boasts over 1000 acres of skiable terrain, including 14 lifts and 100 trails, which are spread out across two mountains: Kachina Peak and Red River Bowls. A wide range of intermediate and advanced runs make this an ideal choice for experienced skiers and riders looking for something new to explore.
In addition to some great skiing, visitors also have access to the town of Taos. Bounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos is known for its historic adobe structures, galleries and museums showcasing regional artwork, including the Harwood Museum of Art and the Taos Art Museum.
Angel Fire Resort is the place to be if you're looking for green runs, blue cruisers for miles, and a few short black diamonds to liven things up. Not far from the nearby Taos Ski Area, Angel Fire is favored by many novice and intermediate skiers.
Angel Fire is a great place for a family ski trip because most of its 81 lines are considered intermediate or easy. Additionally, you can rest easy knowing that you'll have access to quality snow thanks to the fact that over half the mountain is outfitted with snowmaking facilities.
The mountain is also home to several top-tier terrain parks where you can practice your pipe riding and big air skills. Night skiing is available at Angel Fire for those who haven't had enough or who got a late start on the day.
Condos, motels, and guest houses are all available on the hill for visitors. It's only 40 minutes to Taos, which has numerous lodging options and dining establishments.
The Sandia Peak Tramway will take you from the cactus gardens of Albuquerque to the snow-covered forest at Sandia Peak Ski Area in only 12 minutes. This makes it one of the most accessible ski destinations in the United States from a large metropolitan center. Despite its compact nature, this area has a significant elevation change and a wide variety of courses. If you can wait until a weekday with fresh powder, you can have the slopes all to yourself. Families from Albuquerque often use Saturday and Sunday to travel here for the weekend.
Takeaway
New Mexico is undoubtedly one of the best places in the country to ski. The state is home to some fantastic resorts and breathtaking scenery, not to mention some delicious eats after a day on the slopes. If you’re not already planning your next New Mexico ski vacation, you may want to consider these resorts when you do.
