New Mexico is blessed with two things skiers simply can’t get enough of; wonderfully dry powder and an abundance of bluebird days. With the Southern Rockies boasting peaks as high as 13,000 ft it’s quite possibly the most underrated ski destination in America. We’ve found the top ski resorts from across the Land of Enchantment to help you decide which is right for you.
4. Ski Apache
Why Ski Ski Apache
There’s no better resort than Ski Apache to experience finest warm-weather powder skiing on the planet. 55 runs across 750 ac wind their way down through wide-open bowls and snow-capped trees, with the majestic 12,005 ft peak of Sierra Blanca towering above. Well served by 11 lifts, Ski Apache even has snowmakers all the way up to the resort summit and the grooming operation here rivals that of any other in the state. Another added bonus is the price of the lift pass; it’s one of the least expensive on this list. There’s no lodging available at the ski area itself but you’ll find plenty of options half an hour’s drive away in Ruidoso.
3. Ski Santa Fe
Why Ski Ski Santa Fe
While there’s terrain for everyone across this compact 660 ac resort, the powder-filled glades is a true highlight for skiers and riders here at Ski Santa Fe. The base area sits at 10,350 ft, one of the highest in the country helping it receive 225 in of snow annually. When you’re all skied out you’ll find an abundance of things to do 16 mi away in Santa Fe, which is where you’re likely to be staying seeing as there’s no accommodation at the actual ski area. From Japanese inspired spa baths to the vibrant art district along Canyon Road, Santa Fe offers a delightfully different vibe to your usual alpine ski village.
2. Angel Fire Resort
Why Ski Angel Fire Resort
Taking our number two spot, Angel Fire brings together everything that a good ski vacation needs, including trails for all abilities, high-speed lifts, slope-side accommodation, and some fun non-ski activities too. Every weekend and during holidays they light up 50 ac of slopes and a terrain park for even more fun after dark! Where Angel Fire really excels is in its array of terrain parks to satisfy every standard of freestyler. The largest is Liberation Park, situated right at the top of the resort and coming complete with its own two-person chairlift. Unlike Ski Santa Fe and Ski Apache, there are plenty of lodging options in and around Angel Fire from condos to cabins.
1. Taos Ski Valley
Why Ski Taos Ski Valley
Taos is our number one for good reason. A whopping 300 in of powder carpets the impressive 1,294 ac of skiable terrain here each year. Just over half of the runs are rated for experts with tight chutes and powder-filled bowls to explore, even the Freeride World Tour makes a stop here! Don’t worry Taos still delivers for beginners and intermediates too. The Ernie Blake Ski School is consistently ranked as one of the best in the country, plus every blue and green run is covered by snowmaking for optimal learning conditions. Little ones are taken care of too with daycare and ski programs, plus accommodation options range from ski-in/ski-out lodging at the Blake to self-catering condos scattered throughout the village.