There’s no question that New Mexico is a fantastic ski destination. But when is the best time to ski in New Mexico?
Skiers and boarders alike will say that the best time to ski in New Mexico is during the peak winter season. At Ski Apache in Alto, New Mexico, this can be anywhere from December to late February when the average monthly snowfall in the area typically reaches its highest point.
If you’re still trying to decide when you should take your New Mexico ski trip check out our frequently asked questions that will help you decide.
What months can you ski in New Mexico?
New Mexico’s ski season typically begins in mid-to-late fall and lasts until late winter. That means you can expect powdery slopes and trails open to skiers and boarders from late November through early March.
You can also expect stellar ski conditions in New Mexico during these months:
- December (avg. 7 inches annually)
- January (avg. 7 inches annually)
- February (avg. 5.5 inches annually)
Book your ski trip in New Mexico today!
How late in the year can you ski in New Mexico?
The latest you can ski with the best conditions is in early March. This is when the ski season starts to wind down but the Sierra Blanca snow is still powdery smooth. If you’re itching to hit the slopes before the ski season ends, we recommend getting your ski tickets and picking your hotel accommodations as soon as possible!
Can you ski during the holidays in New Mexico?
The holidays are one of the best times to ski in New Mexico! At Ski Apache, visitors flock to Sierra Blanca for the best holiday skiing New Mexico has to offer. Skiing and boarding around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s is a special experience and will create memories that last a lifetime.
If you plan to visit New Mexico during the holidays, spend your New Mexico Christmas vacation at the Inn of the Mountain Gods.
What is the best time of the week to ski in New Mexico?
If you’re looking to ski with fewer crowds and save a buck or two, Thursdays are typically the best time of the week to ski in New Mexico. During this time, rental prices and ski tickets at Ski Apache are typically lower and the ski area is usually less crowded.
However, that doesn’t mean the weekends should be avoided. With over 750 skiable acres across the Sierra Blanca peak, including 55 runs and trails, three terrain parks, and 11 ski lifts, you’ll have plenty of room to enjoy an incredible ski experience any time of the week at Ski Apache.
Fly down the slopes at Ski Apache any day of the week with a Winter Season Pass!
OTHER WINTER ACTIVITIES IN NEW MEXICO
If you’re not in the mood to hit the slopes, there are plenty of winter activities besides skiing in New Mexico. You can fill your winter itinerary with things like historic site visits, winter hikes, snowshoeing, ice skating, scenic train rides, and more.
Can you ski in the summer in New Mexico?
New Mexico’s Ski Apache is open during the summer months. During this time of the year, visitors can soar on one of the world’s longest ZipTours, enjoy hiking and biking with breathtaking views, and dine at one of the many on-site eateries that Ski Apache has to offer.
Visit Ski Apache this summer and explore biking trails, hiking, and more!
What is the best place to stay for a New Mexico ski vacation?
Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino offers Mescalero, NM hotel accommodations ideal for all types of travelers and is the perfect spot for a New Mexico winter vacation. Most rooms and suites come with their own private outdoor balcony with stunning alpine views. Inn of the Mountain Gods guests will enjoy extra perks like:
- Access to the indoor pool
- High-speed internet access
- Fitness center access
- Free valet
Best of all, the Inn of the Mountain Gods is only a short drive to Ski Apache, so you’ll get to enjoy the best warm-weather powder skiing in New Mexico and the best things to do at Inn of the Mountain Gods on the same day! Our hotel is also just minutes away from Ruidoso, making it one of the best hotels near Ruidoso, New Mexico. If you’re planning a family ski trip, check out our list of things to do in New Mexico with kids at and near the Inn of the Mountain Gods. Or if you plan to make your ski trip a romantic rendezvous, see our guide to New Mexico romantic getaways.