Ready to trade desert heat for mountain adventures? While Las Cruces may be known for its sunny skies, top-notch skiing destinations are closer than you might think! From nearby resorts perfect for day trips to world-class destinations worth a longer stay, here’s your guide to hitting the slopes from Las Cruces.
Does it Snow in New Mexico? Yes, and Here’s Where to Ski!
The Best Places to Ski in New Mexico
Make every run count — check our Snow Report widget below for the latest on snowfall, open trails, and grooming conditions to help you plan your ski day like a pro.
Closest to Las Cruces
Ski Cloudcroft
Just two hours from Las Cruces, Ski Cloudcroft delivers a quick mountain escape. This compact resort packs everything you need into its 700-foot vertical drop: snowmaking-equipped tubing hills, rental gear, a cozy day lodge, and three lifts.
Check current conditions with our snow report widget before heading up!
Ski Apache
Owned by the Mescalero Apache Tribe, this historic resort near Ruidoso is about 2.5 hours from Las Cruces. Opened in 1961 as Sierra Blanca Ski Resort, in 1963 it became the nation’s first ski area owned by a Native American tribe. The resort pairs varied terrain with stunning views of White Sands National Park, all anchored by its distinctive Modernist lodge.
Central New Mexico Options
Ski Santa Fe
Ski Santa Fe is perched high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at 12,075 feet, with Santa Fe’s historic plaza just 15 miles away. It features gentle cruiser runs, moguls, glades, and an excellent ski school with small-group instruction. Often overlooked, Ski Santa Fe is a fantastic choice for both beginners and experienced skiers. After a day on the slopes, enjoy award-winning dining and entertainment in the city.
Sandia Peak Ski Area
Sandia Peak, 35 miles east of Albuquerque, is accessible by car or the scenic Sandia Peak Tramway. It features 35 runs, three lifts, a substantial vertical drop, and diverse terrain. Be sure to stop by Ten 3, the summit restaurant and lounge where spectacular views complement your après-ski.
Don’t wait for the snow to melt — check Sandia Peak’s conditions now and start planning your mountain getaway. Use the Snow Report widget below.
Northern New Mexico’s Finest
Taos Ski Valley
Taos Ski Valley (TSV), a world-class resort in Northern New Mexico, is a premier destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. It holds the distinction of being the world’s first and only B Corp-certified ski resort, a recognition that reflects its commitment to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical business practices.
As a B Corp, TSV prioritizes reducing its environmental impact, supporting the local community, and maintaining transparency in its operations. While renowned for its challenging terrain, including the experts-only Kachina Peak Chair reaching 12,450 feet, TSV also has plenty of options for beginners and intermediates. Its unique international atmosphere adds to the appeal, making it well worth the journey from Las Cruces.
Angel Fire Resort
Known for its perfectly groomed runs and abundance of beginner and intermediate terrain, Angel Fire is an ideal choice for families and those looking for a more relaxed pace. It also features the state’s top-rated terrain parks and the only night skiing and tubing operation, offering even more ways to enjoy the snow!
Red River
Just below the Colorado border, Red River is a budget-friendly ski destination perfect for families and skiers of all levels. With lifts departing directly from town, you can skip the usual resort traffic and enjoy the convenience of parking once and forgetting the hassle.
The area features a mix of beginner and intermediate runs, ideal for families and newcomers, while experienced skiers can explore pockets of challenging terrain and a well-regarded terrain park.
Sipapu
Located near Vadito, about four hours from Las Cruces, Sipapu offers an intimate and affordable ski experience with stay-and-ski packages. The resort caters to new and casual skiers with friendly slopes and a terrain park, while those seeking a challenge can enjoy tree skiing and steep runs when conditions allow.
Pajarito Mountain
Pajarito Mountain in Los Alamos is a scenic drive from Las Cruces and a great option during peak holidays or for powder seekers after its regular multi-day closures. While this classic ski area has plenty of approachable runs, it’s the legendary “Fab Five” bump runs — Nuther, Mother, Sidewinder, Breathless, and Precious — that set this mountain apart, delivering some of New Mexico’s most challenging mogul skiing for those ready to test their skills.
Worth the Extra Drive
Durango & The Four Corners Region
A winter wonderland awaits in the Four Corners region, offering world-renowned options like:
- Purgatory Resort‘s famous Zinfandel and Paradise runs
- Historic Telluride’s stunning terrain
- Wolf Creek’s legendary powder
- Silverton Mountain’s extreme challenges
- Family-friendly Kendall Mountain
Southwest Colorado also hosts some of the best skijoring competitions in the nation.
Before heading north, check our real-time mountain base snow widget for current conditions at all Four Corners resorts.
Plan Your Mountain Escape
The desert sun will still be here when you get back — trade it for mountain snow, crisp air, and exhilarating runs. Regardless of your skill level, every perfect day on the slopes begins with the right conditions. Check the snow report widget, grab your gear, and head for the slopes.
Get real-time snow conditions, trail status, and more with our easy-to-use snow report widget — your essential tool for planning the perfect ski day!
Posted by LasCruces.com
