Discover the Best Ski Resort in New Mexico for Your Next Winter Escape

When it comes to skiing and riding, we can confidently count the states in which people would say are home to the best resorts and New Mexico may not be the first place that comes to mind, but the southwestern state has a number of great ski resorts that offer everything from beginner slopes to challenging expert level black diamond runs which will make your palms sweat. In this article, we'll take a look at the best ski resorts in New Mexico, focusing on their unique features and what makes them stand out from the rest.#1 Taos Ski ValleyTaos Ski Valley is a world-renowned ski destination located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northern New Mexico and is one of the state's most popular ski resorts. Founded in the 1950s by ski pioneer Ernie Blake, the resort has grown into a world-class destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The resort features 110 trails spread over 1,294 skiable acres, with 24% beginner, 25% intermediate, 41% advanced, and 10% expert terrain. The resort also boasts a terrain park and a halfpipe for freestyle skiers and snowboarders. One of the unique aspects of Taos Ski Valley is its hike-to terrain, which includes the infamous Kachina Peak at 12,481 feet. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Taos Ski Valley offers a range of winter activities, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. The resort also has a variety of dining options, from casual cafeteria-style to fine dining at The Blonde Bear Tavern.See our full breakdown on Taos Ski Valley

Snowboarders making their way along a ridge line near the summit of the resort. Credit: Taos Ski Valley #2 Ski Santa FeLocated just 16 miles from Santa Fe, Ski Santa Fe Resort offers skiers and snowboarders a unique high-elevation skiing experience in northern New Mexico. With a peak elevation of 12,075 feet, Ski Santa Fe is the highest ski resort in the state, offering breathtaking views and a range of terrain for all skill levels. Ski Santa Fe features 86 trails spread over 660 skiable acres, with 20% beginner, 40% intermediate, and 40% advanced/expert terrain. The resort also boasts a terrain park with a range of features and jumps for freestyle skiers and snowboarders. For those looking for a challenge, the resort's expert terrain includes steep chutes and glades. One of the unique aspects of Ski Santa Fe is its location in the Santa Fe National Forest, offering skiers and snowboarders a chance to experience the natural beauty of the area. The resort also offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails for those looking for a different kind of winter adventure.See our full breakdown on Ski Santa Fe

Skier getting deep turns in the New Mexico sunshine. Credit: Ski Santa Fe Instagram #3 Angel Fire ResortLocated in the beautiful Moreno Valley in northern New Mexico, Angel Fire Ski Resort is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders looking to hit the slopes in a picturesque setting. With over 560 skiable acres and a peak elevation of 10,677 feet, Angel Fire offers a range of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Angel Fire Ski Resort is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with a range of programs and activities for kids and families. The resort features a ski school that offers lessons for children as young as three years old, as well as a kids' snowmobile park and a tubing hill. For adults, there are plenty of challenging runs and terrain parks to enjoy. One of the highlights of Angel Fire Ski Resort is its terrain park, which offers a range of features and jumps for freestyle skiers and snowboarders. The resort also offers night skiing on select trails, allowing visitors to enjoy the slopes even after the sun goes down.See our full breakdown on Angel Fire Resort

Skiers enjoying the long perfectly groomed trails of Angel Fire ski resort. Credit: Angel Fire Resort Facebook #4 Red River Ski & Summer AreaNestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in northern New Mexico, the Red River Ski Area is a hidden gem for skiers and snowboarders looking for a smaller, more laid-back resort experience. With 58 trails and a peak elevation of 10,350 feet, Red River Ski Area offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. One of the unique aspects of Red River Ski Area is its location in the town of Red River, which offers a charming, old-western atmosphere and a range of lodging options, restaurants, and shops. Visitors to Red River can enjoy the ski area during the day and then explore the town in the evenings. Red River Ski Area is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with a range of programs and activities for kids and families. The ski school offers lessons for children as young as three years old, and there are plenty of beginner and intermediate trails for families to enjoy together.See our full breakdown on Red River

Aerial shot of the whole ski resort at Red River. Credit: Red River Resort Facebook #5 Ski ApacheLocated in the Sierra Blanca Mountains of southern New Mexico, Ski Apache Ski Resort is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders looking to hit the slopes in a stunning alpine setting. With over 750 skiable acres and a peak elevation of 11,500 feet, Ski Apache is the southernmost ski resort in the United States and offers a unique skiing experience unlike any other in the country. Ski Apache boasts 55 trails and slopes, with options for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The resort is known for its wide-open runs, perfectly groomed snow, and challenging terrain parks. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, visitors can also enjoy snow tubing, zip-lining, and other outdoor activities. One of the most unique aspects of Ski Apache is its use of the gondola as a primary means of accessing the mountain. The gondola offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscape, and is a highlight of any visit to the resort.See our full breakdown on Ski Apache