Maintaining family memories has never been better than a trip to New Mexico, regardless of whether you are a novice skier or have been skiing with your family since you were a youngster. Family-friendly New Mexico ski resorts are more relaxed and peaceful than many others. Then again, New Mexico, which is typically thought of as a desert state, offers the proper weather patterns and conditions for stunning, snow-covered mountains suitable for a family ski vacation. For guests of all ages, each one provides something special and captivating.
The peak winter season in New Mexico is considered to be the finest time to ski, according to both skiers and snowboarders. The average monthly snowfall in the region normally reaches its peak between December and late February at Ski Apache near Alto, New Mexico.
Explore the ten top New Mexico ski resorts for families detailed in this article to enjoy and experience throughout the colder seasons.
#1. Taos Ski Valley
The biggest ski area in New Mexico is Taos Ski Valley Resort, which is well-liked over the holidays. It has rugged terrain, vistas of Kachina Peak, and family-friendly amenities such as daycare, ski camps, and individual instruction. From November 30 to April 8 it is open. Taos Ski Valley is a family-friendly ski resort with 1,294 acres of terrain and Ernie Blake Ski School. Additionally, it provides a variety of lodging options, such as ski-in/ski-out lodging at the Blake Lodge. Also, it has condos that can be on rent out independently and Airbnb options.Â
In order to see Taos, New Mexico, which has a thriving performing arts center and lovely winter hiking trails, families can also rent a car.
#2. Ski Santa Fe
One of the 10 best and most well-known family ski resorts in New Mexico, with a fascinating local history, is called Ski Santa Fe. As a matter of fact, it is accessible to skiers of all skill levels, with even terrain and well-maintained powder covering the runs all winter. Meanwhile, the location is outside of Santa Fe.
From December 6 to April 4 of each year, Ski Santa Fe provides a range of lodging options for families. Ski Santa Fe is easily accessible from both Santa Fe Regional Airport and Albuquerque International Sunport. In conclusion, Ski Santa Fe offers a variety of bars, eateries, and spas to enjoy après-ski.
#3. Angel Fire
One of the biggest resorts in New Mexico, Angel Fire Ski Resort is 100 miles from Santa Fe Regional Airport and 3 hours from Albuquerque International Sunport. The beautiful views, high-speed ski lifts, more than 50 acres of skiable terrain and slopes, as well as the opportunities for night skiing, have made it a family favorite. Families can enjoy the ski resort experience without leaving the mountain due to the accessibility of condos, lodges, hotels, and Airbnb.
#4. Ski Apache
This is one of the best 10-family ski resorts in New Mexico. Unlike any other ski area in the US, Ski Apache is a 70-acre winter wonderland that is situated further south. It provides free daycare, low-cost ski lifts, and discounts on family-style children’s ski training. The resort does not have any hotels or other lodging choices, but there are several nearby. It is imperative to make travel arrangements in advance and get a pass for their 11 operating ski lifts because they frequently sell out. Finally, for Christmas and New Year’s family getaways and reunions, Ski Apache is a great destination.
#5. Pajarito Mountain Ski Area
The Pajarito Mountain Ski Area is the only ski resort in New Mexico with the nicest and sunniest weather, and it is situated in the state’s northernmost region. It is 45 minutes from Sante Fe, New Mexico, and situated 9,200 feet above sea level on the Pajarito Mountain. Families can engage in a variety of on-trail and off-trail activities there, from 300 acres of skiable snow to renowned dining establishments.
With groomed slopes overlooking the Ri-Grande River, all-level glade skiing, and the Pajarito Mountain Snowsports School, complete with licensed instructors for ages children through adults, it also provides courses for families interested in acquiring instruction for their younger members.
Read Also: SKI RESORTS IN NEW MEXICO SANTA FE: Top 9 Resorts
#6. Inn of the Mountain God’s Resort and Casino
The Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino offers spa accommodations for families and those without children. It offers several on-site attractions, including a golf course, baths, restaurants, pubs, horseback riding, bicycling, ziplining, boating, and musical performances. After hitting the beginner-friendly slopes with their kids, many parents drop them off at the certified daycare, play areas, or skiing instruction before trying their luck at the Mescalero Casino. Note that it’s safer for families to make reservations ahead of time for a memorable ski trip.
#7. Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort
Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort are suitable children’s ski areas two hours north of Albuquerque and southwest of Taos, New Mexico. Since it initially started operating in 1952, it has developed a reputation as a well-liked destination for seasonal getaways and winter fun. In addition to providing fairly affordable lodging and dining along the river at the Riverside Cafe and Paradise Riverside Grill, it also provides a lot of interesting kids’ activities. For special events, it also provides a disc golf course.
#8. Red River Ski and Summer area
With a height of nearly 8,750 feet, the Red River Ski and Summer Area, which has been there for more than 60 years and is close to the Enchanted Circle, has sweeping vistas of the Southern Rocky Mountains. The lodge was built by a ski-loving family to maintain its small-town charm. The resort, which is situated near the Carson National Forest, also provides lovely camping areas and hiking paths for those looking for a memorable winter experience.
#9. Sandia Peak Ski Tramway
A double-reverse jig-back tramway at the Sandia Peak Ski and Tramway is one of the best 10 resorts in nearby Albuquerque, New Mexico for family. Besides, it provides stunning vistas of the resort’s snow-covered winter slopes. Ben Abruzzo and Robert Nordhaus created it, and it was modified in 1986 with safety features including emergency brakes. New track cables were placed in 2009, and the tram carriages had a second refurbishment in 2016. The resort also has a wide range of dining establishments, ski runs, pubs, and family-friendly activities to keep everyone engaged. Parents should make reservations for family vacations in advance.
#10. Ski Cloudcroft
A small, over 9,000-foot ski resort called Ski Cloudcroft, is located in southern New Mexico. It has 25 lines that span 74 skiable acres, offering routes for skiers of all abilities. The Cloud Nine School provides a range of affordable, individualized learning opportunities. Another activity available at Ski Cloudcroft is tubing, which has five lanes for testing and a 70-foot vertical drop. The town of Cloudcroft offers places to stay, places to eat, stores, and an interesting museum. Alamogordo, one of the nearby cities and lodging alternatives, has both affordable and opulent lodging options, interesting historical sites to explore, a scientific museum, and a Walmart.
Is Taos Skiing Good for Families?
Taos is home to some of the top snowsports schools in the nation, and the Enchanted Circle is filled with family-friendly slopes for both downhill and cross-country skiing.
What‘s the Cost of Living in New Mexico?
New Mexico has a 5% cheaper cost of living than the rest of the US. Utility costs are 11% lower than the national average, but housing costs are 8% lower. Groceries are around 4% cheaper than the rest of the country, while apparel is about 4% cheaper when it comes to basic essentials like food and clothing.