Top Things to do in New Mexico
10 Ski & Snowboard Areas in New Mexico That You Shouldn't Miss
With its rich cultural heritage from Native American and Spanish settlers, New Mexico has been both a Spanish colony and a Mexican colony, and still retains a strong individual identity within the United States. The landscape is breathtaking, the food incredible, and there is a thriving cultural scene, all of which makes New Mexico, and Santa Fe in particular, a great place all year long.
Restaurants in New Mexico
1. Sandia Mountains
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 44 reviews
The Sandia Mountains tower 5,000 feet over the flood plains of the Rio Grande, making a 37,000 acre wilderness area a short drive from Albuquerque.
Reviewed By Mommytwofour - Davenport, United States
This is a must see for all. The views are spectacular. By tram it’s about a 29 min ride to the top but they close the tram for two weeks in the spring and fall for maintenance so make sure to check the website. Otherwise it’s about an hour drive to the top. There is a gift shop and restaurant at the top there hours very depending on season and if the tram is running. I believe that the tram cost about 20$ pp. There are several trails to hike and explore the mountain. If you drive up, there are several picnic locations to stop and hike at along the way. It’s about 10-15 degrees cooler at the top so I would recommend a jacket or sweatshirt. Parking is 3$ per car if driving up, but this is on the honour system since they don’t have anyone actually taking cash you just place it in an envelope and place the parking pass in your car window. The views are beautiful you can see all of Albuquerque and beyond. Elevation I believe is 12,000 feet which literally takes your breath away as you walk up and around the trails.
2. Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 72 reviews
Enchanted Forest is New Mexico's largest and only full service cross country ski area. We offer a full rental shop, PSIA XC ski lessons, ski patrol, and snack bar, all at our comfy day lodge and lesson area. With 32 km of ski trails, and 18 km of snowshoe trails we offer plenty of terrain for anyone to have fun. We also offer Summer and Winter on trail yurt rentals. Ski or Snowshoe in the Winter, or Hike or Mt. Bike in the Summer.
Reviewed By hannahlQ2040XP
This is a charming and beautiful place for Nordic skiing. The owners and staff are just lovely and we are definitely coming back!
3. Taos Ski Valley Resort
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 510 reviews
Located at the southern tip of the Rocky Mountains in Northern New Mexico, Taos Ski Valley is a world famous destination for riders and skiers of all ability levels. Taos is primarily known for its steeps but offers beginner & intermediate trails off the top of every single chair lift. For the advanced to expert skier/rider Taos offers some of the most challenging and varied terrain in the country, especially off its hike to ridges. The family vibe is also embodied in the quaint village of Taos Ski Valley. There's several dining options, with everything in close proximity. If you are looking for more than skiing/riding check out the historic town of Taos just 18 miles down the road for a true vacation destination.
Reviewed By LYJE717 - Austin, United States
We visited for the 1st time TSV at the end of February 2020. Amazing snow, cute little village reminding me The Alpes where I’m from... Parking lot was packed but the slopes where not crowded.... Used to big ski resorts in the Alpes we were not expecting much.... We actually realized that there is plenty of challenging terrain for experts skiers and nice gentle slopes for beginners (my 8 year old niece took lessons and loved it!) We highly recommend the Bavarian Restaurant at the bottom of Kachina lift: awesome food (Real German food by the way) & great service and very well priced! Instead of going to crowded, very expensive Colorado resorts.... we’ll be back!
4. Ski Santa Fe
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 586 reviews
With a base elevation of 10,350 ft, Ski Santa Fe is the launching point for a ski experience your family will never forget. Located only 16 miles from the heart of Santa Fe, a city rich in culture, fine arts and exceptional cuisine, this is one of the country's most diverse and unique ski destinations.
Reviewed By esmorrow - Amarillo, United States
What a great couple of days on the mountain. We were lucky enough to have our children home for semester break. We had great snow, sunny days and pleasant helpful staff during our trip. Love being able to ski at such a beautiful spot.
5. Pajarito Mountain Ski Area
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 56 reviews
With more than 280 acres of ski-able acreage and 37 named trails of varying skill levels, this ski area is ideal whether you're a beginner or expert on the slopes.
Reviewed By SarahCZ - Austin, United States
Can be slow to get rentals and tickets since not many people work there. Our first instructor was pretty bad but second one was great. Slopes are challenging for us beginners. I have met people that came after skied in Santa Fe for more challenging slops. Price can't be beat. I saved so much $$$ on lessons, rentals and lift tickets. Always check online to see if they have any special rates. We will be back for more next season!
6. Sandia Peak Ski Area
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
Albuquerque's best kept skiing secret is nestled in the Cibola National Forest, just a short tram ride or drive away from New Mexico's largest city. Sandia Peak has great skiing at a friendly price. You can always expect wide open trails, blue skies and perfect grooming.
Reviewed By americandominoes - Arlington, United States
Next to Albuquerque this resort is great for beginners, the day we went had fresh snow, it is one of the closest resort to drive to from Texas.
7. Northside at Taos Ski Valley
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 5 reviews
8. Angel Fire Resort
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 387 reviews
Angel Fire Resort is a year-round destination located in Northern New Mexico. In the winter, Angel Fire features skiing and snowboarding with a wide-variety of terrain on 560+ acres. After the snow melts, the resort features on of the premier downhill mountain bike parks in the country as well New Mexico's best zip line, an 18-hole golf course and more! Angel Fire Resort began in 1966, as a small ski destination in Northern New Mexico. We are proud to have grown into a four-season resort offering a memorable Rocky Mountain experience for families, outdoor enthusiasts and groups.
Reviewed By 94meaghanj
I registered my 4 year old son for two consecutive days of ski school. The first instructor was amazing with him and really helped boost his confidence, day two he had a different instructor and we actually picked him up early at 2 pm to allow him time to ski with his older brothers. The second instructor was amazing as well! He really worked one on one (due to what I am assuming was a increase in his ability and lack of capacity due to Covid) with him and taught him all the major basics. Once we got up the mountain the second time after early pickup we ran into his instructor and he was so considerate and even checked on my son long after his class ended. He sure didn’t have to nor did he have to say hi and tell him what a great job he was doing ! Angel Fire ski school has great instructors, great customer service and extremely professional. 10/10 for sure
9. Sipapu Ski Area
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 133 reviews
New Mexico’s fastest growing resort, Sipapu is home to the state's longest ski season and the best deals in the Rockies. Surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Carson National Forest, the resort has over 40 trails, five lifts and three terrain parks. On-site amenities include slopeside lodging, a full-service ski shop, ski school and New Mexico's best riverside dining experience.
Reviewed By Laepplegarza
Friendliness of the staff and patience of the ski instructor. Small place, perfect for families and beginners.
10. Ruidoso Winter Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 223 reviews
Reviewed By davids712712 - San Antonio, United States
This is one of the best spots to visit in Ruidoso. Very friendly staff, especially Bob and Nick who made each trip down the slopes a lot of fun. They seemed to enjoy themselves just as much as the guests riding the tubes. Definitely recommend giving Ruidoso Winter Park a visit.
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