New Mexico offers a distinctive winter experience — with light, dry snow, abundant sunshine, and lift tickets that are easier on the budget — without sacrificing the thrill! The high-desert climate creates exhilarating ski conditions, while nearby communities provide a cultural backdrop that sets the state apart from other mountain destinations. Our eight alpine and three Nordic ski areas dotted throughout the state will provide you with the ultimate in sporting options, stunning scenery, unbelievable food, out-of-this-world shopping, and a never-to-be-forgotten cultural experience. And—oh yes—exceptional skiing and riding.
Taos attracts skiers worldwide with its steep chutes and technical terrain, while Ski Apache offers tree-lined runs with gondola access. Angel Fire and Ski Santa Fe are known for their well-groomed trails that test intermediate and advanced skiers, and Red River continues to be a favorite for skiers of all types, with approachable slopes and lifts that go up directly from downtown.
Beyond the ski areas, winter in New Mexico also brings snowshoeing, tubing, ice skating, and scenic snowcat tours—all enhanced by the state’s dry snow and abundant sunshine.
Premier Alpine Resorts in New Mexico
Taos Ski Valley: A longtime favorite among advanced skiers, this 1,294-acre mountain is known for steep terrain like Al’s Run and Kachina Peak. Averaging 300 inches of snowfall each year, it delivers snowy conditions and challenging runs!
Ski Santa Fe: Just 16 miles from downtown Santa Fe, this ski area offers intermediate-friendly terrain with 87 trails spread across 660 acres. The mountain’s elevation (topping out at 12,075 feet) gives way to expansive views over the desert below, and the tree runs through aspen groves are a favorite among returning skiers.
Ski Apache: Owned by the Mescalero Apache Tribe, this southern mountain is a hidden gem amongst some of the more trafficked ski areas in New Mexico. The 750-acre resort features cozy digs and plenty of challenging runs.
Angel Fire Resort: One of New Mexico's most complete ski resorts with night skiing, spa services, and 84 family-friendly trails. The full-service mountain includes tubing hills and extensive lodging options.
Community Ski Resorts & Cross-Country Skiing Options
Red River Ski Area: A historic mining town turned ski hub, where Main Street doubles as a ski run and most lodges are steps from the lifts. Family-owned since 1959, it’s known for its low-key vibe and approachable terrain.
Pajarito Mountain: Perched above Los Alamos, this community-run spot draws locals with steep slopes, short lift lines, and affordable day passes.
Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area: Also located in Red River, Enchanted Forest features over 18 miles of groomed cross-country trails, over 10 miles of snowshoe trails, and designated trails for dogs as well!
Lodging & Travel
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) provides access to most New Mexico ski resorts with connections from major U.S cities. Skiing accommodations range from luxury stays like the Edelweiss Lodge and Spa to budget-friendly lodges in Red River, and everything in between!
Pro Tips: Season passes generally pay for themselves in five to six days, so plan accordingly and save big if you expect to stay a while. Also, midweek rates at many resorts drop 40 to 50%, and most ski resort areas offer free skiing for kids under the age of six.
Après & Southwestern Experiences
Taos Ski Valley keeps things low-key with bars like The Bavarian and The Blonde Bear Tavern offering classic ski-in, ski-out comfort. In Santa Fe, you’ll find mountain views from rooftop patios and old-school cantinas near the historic plaza. Angel Fire’s Summit Haus sits at the top of the mountain, while Red River’s saloons (like Bull O’ The Woods) still feel rooted in the town’s frontier past.
And off the slopes, you’ll find nearby cultural landmarks like Taos Pueblo, art institutions throughout Santa Fe, and natural hot springs at Ojo Caliente. Take a quick break from the mountain and uncover the many layers of New Mexico’s history.
All opening and closing dates are subject to conditions — please refer to Ski New Mexico's or your respective mountain's website for more details.
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK: Try Legends Grill, especially if it’s Taco Tuesday, or El Jefe for lunch at the resort, or Enchanted Circle Brewing Company in town.
KNOWN FOR: Steep skiing, great learning center, good bars and restaurants, the Blake Hotel.
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK: Cafe Naranja or Bumps Market for breakfast or brunch and the Bavarian for après. 192 at the Blake, the Blonde Bear Tavern, or the Hotel St. Bernard for dinner.
KNOWN FOR: Its gondola, Mescalero Apache ownership, one of the southernmost ski areas in the country.
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK: Hit Spirit Bar for après, the Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino to pull some slots, Wendell’s for fine dining and live music. In Ruidoso, Win, Place & Show has regular live country music, and Noisy Water Winery offers great local reds.
KNOWN FOR: Proximity to Albuquerque, the tram from the desert to the craggy Sandía Peak, great slopes for beginners and families. Sandia Peak Ski Area is closed for the 22-23 ski season.
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK: TEN 3 is located at the top of the Tram at Sandia Peak with the most breathtaking views. TEN 3 is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat after a mountain hike or take your special someone for a romantic dinner.
KNOWN FOR: A family atmosphere and a great ski school. Slopes that come right into a laid-back town with rustic mountain culture.
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK: Check out the Red River Brewing Company or head to the Grill, at the ski area base, a popular spot to watch torchlight parades on Saturday nights.
