New Mexico – land of the cactus, the enchanted desert, and amazing skiing. While being in the less visited half of the beloved four corner states, New Mexico offers Rocky Mountain Skiing with distinctly Southwestern experiences.
Skiers of all levels can enjoy the rich diversity of ski resorts in New Mexico, all at more comfortable elevations. Whether you’re hoping to add a few ski days to a trip to Sante Fe or Albuquerque, planning solely a ski trip, or if you’re riding out the whole season, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for at these New Mexico Ski Resorts.
But first…ski gear!
No matter where you’re skiing, it’s important to be well equipped for your outdoor adventure. Most of the time it comes down to the essential items to make or break a ski trip so make sure you’re prepared. Southern states still get cold at high elevations, so stay warm with these proper ski clothing and protect your eyes in the bright sunlight with the right goggles for Southwestern skiing. Once you have everything you need, let’s jump into the top ski resorts in New Mexico.
Top New Mexico Ski Resorts
1. Taos Ski Valley
Acreage: 1,294 acres
Highest elevation point: 12,581 ft
Number of runs: 110
Best for: intermediate to advanced skiers, longer trips, Ikon Pass Holders
By far the largest ski resort in New Mexico is Taos Ski Valley. With an average snowfall of 300 inches per year as well as a 3,131-foot vertical, Taos is nothing short of Rocky Mountain skiing. Taos features over 100 trails including a heavy lineup of black diamonds, this is a great option for skiers looking to push their limits.
The mountain is divided into 5 sections serviced by 14 lifts, giving skiers flush options for each and every run. Did we mention that Taos bathes in 300+ days of sunshine each year? Making it one of the sunniest ski resorts in North America. Taos Ski Valley also hosts a Spa and Wellness center with massages and an oxygen bar.
2. Ski Apache
Acreage: 750 acres
Highest elevation point: 11,500 ft
Number of runs: 55
Best for: all-level skiers
Next on our list of New Mexico ski resorts is Ski Apache, located in the southern part of the state. Ranking second largest resort by skiable acres and the third tallest peak elevation, Ski Apache is a mountain playground. Despite its southern geography, Ski Apache averages around 15 feet (180 inches) of snowfall each year and features long mountain runs with a vertical just under 2,000 feet. Skiers of all levels will find plenty of runs here, but intermediate skiers will have the widest selection with over 30 intermediate-level trails.
3. Ski Sante Fe
Acreage: 660 acres
Highest elevation point: 12,075 ft
Number of runs: 68
Best for: Sante Fe locals, all-level skiers
If you’re looking for a high elevation ski resort flush with trails less than one hour from a major airport, look no further than Ski Sante Fe. What this resort lacks in a creative name, it makes up for in sheer awesomeness. Only 16 miles from downtown Santa Fe and affordably priced (for Rocky Mountain skiing), this is a great choice for families, traveling skiers, and Santa Fe residents looking to get out on the slopes. This nearly urban ski resort has the second most runs and second highest peak elevation in Sante Fe. Experienced skiers shouldn’t shy away however, because Ski Sante Fe has 35 expert-level trails, not to mention a 1,700+ vertical drop.
4. Angel Fire
Acreage: 560 acres
Highest elevation point: 8,600 ft
Number of runs: 81
Best for: park riders, all-level skiers, families
Oftentimes ski resorts have at least one major drawback – amazing powder stashes but completely overcrowded, for example. But every now and then you find a ski resort that hits all marks without compromise. Angel Fire is one of those ski resorts. It’s near the top of the list in basically every category.
With a 2,077-foot vertical, 200+ inches of annual snowfall, 81 runs, and 3 terrain parks all while being only 34 miles away from the nearest airport – we’re in love with this ski resort. Advertised as a family-friendly ski resort, Angel Fire offers trails at all ski levels, night skiing, snowshoeing, kids sledding, and tubing so everyone in your group can find something to do.
5. Sandia Peak Ski & Tramway
Acreage: 300 acres
Highest elevation point: 10,378 ft
Number of runs: 35
Best for: all-level skiers, weekend trips
For those looking for a more scenic experience while skiing in New Mexico, we recommend Sandia Peak Ski & Tramway. Some ski purists turn their nose up at ski slopes that are used for anything besides skiing, snowboarding, and maybe mountain biking; but as far as we are concerned, good skiing is good skiing. Different slopes for different folks, you might say.
So, if 10,000+ foot elevation with a 1,700-foot vertical drop for under $100 a day sounds good to you, you might like this ski resort. Visitors can enjoy a full day of skiing, lots of hiking trails, as well as a tram ride taking you on gorgeous views of the greater Albuquerque area, leading up to a restaurant on top of the mountain for a deliciously memorable dining experience.
Are you ready to plan your trip to New Mexico this season? Visit one of these best New Mexico ski resorts and let us know what you think!
