2008-2009 WINTER ADVENTURE GUIDE

www.skinewmexico.com

D;MC;N?9E

PAGE 23
Ski, Shop and
Eat to Your
Heart’s
Desire.

+
Angel Fire • Pajarito • Red River • Sandia • Santa Fe • Sipapu • Ski Apache • Taos Chama • Enchanted Forest • Valles Caldera
Ride ’em Red River!
Whether you’re searching for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, or snowshoeing
this winter, your entire family will love the Ski Town of the Southwest. Two of the main
chair lifts leave from the center of town, so there’s no shuttle necessary. Just park & ski,
park & ride, park & play! After a long day on the mountain, enjoy boutique shopping,
restaurants to please every palate, live music, and plenty of two-steppin’.
Begin your Red River vacation online at www.RedRiverInfo.org

JOIN OUR 50TH SKI SEASON CELEBRATIONS

November 2008 January 2009

26 Red River Ski Area opens Torchlight Parade every Saturday at 7pm
27 Frozen Turkey Race 1–31 January Bargain Days
27 Switch on the Holidays — Annual Tree Lighting & Caroling 1–15 College Days
16–19 Martin Luther King Weekend
19–25 Home School Week
December 2008
Torchlight Parade every Saturday at 7pm February 2009
5–7 Half-Price Weekend
12 Ski Area opens daily Torchlight Parade every Saturday at 7pm
12–14 Half-Price Weekend 13–16 Presidents’ Weekend
TBA Race Camp 19–24 Mardi Gras in the Mountains
25 Annual Luminaria Tour Christmas Night 24 Fat Tuesday/Mardi Gras
31 Old Fashioned New Year’s Eve Party 28 Just Desserts Eat & Ski
31 New year’s Fireworks & Torchlight Parade
March 2009
Visit our website for regular updates on 50th Anniversary
Torchlight Parade every Saturday at 7pm
deals and events. www.RedRiverInfo.org
14–28 Beach Weeks
17 Spring Break Fireworks
18 Kid’s Torchlight Parade
29 Last Day of Skiing

FREE visitors guide

877-754-1708
www.RedRiverInfo.org
Photography by Jeff Caven
 More Families. More Fun.
MORE FOR FREE.
Located just 20 miles southeast of Taos and
two hours north of Albuquerque, Sipapu is
New Mexico’s fastest growing resort
(yet you still won’t wait in line for a lift).

Our philosophy is to be the most family-friendly resort in the Rockies, and

we cater to every budget by offering the best deals around, including our
popular Free Lodging Days, free lessons for never-ever
skiers and boarders, free lift tickets for 4th graders, FREE
guests ages 6 and under, 40, 70 or better - and more. lodging
lessons
So, grab your gear and discover why Sipapu is the
lift tickets!
fastest growing resort in New Mexico.

For more information

or to find more great deals,
visit www.SipapuNM.com

03 FPO Sipapu Ad.indd 3 9/5/08 11:48:49 AM

 Table of Contents

Getting Here
Whether you’re flying into Albuquerque’s Sunport, galloping
into Santa Fe or wheeling in from a neighboring state, getting
to New Mexico’s many ski areas and resorts is half of the
adventure. Our unparalleled vistas, golden sunsets and
enchanting landscapes won’t disappoint. And like the
skiing, they’ll bring you back again and again.

Welcome to New Mexico FW]eiWIfh_d]i 9ebehWZeIfh_d]i

6 Hitting the Slopes!
9^WcW

EabW^ecW
H[ZH_l[h
New Mexico ;dY^Wdj[Z<eh[ij
8 Why Here? JWeiIa_LWbb[o
<Whc_d]jed

JWei Ifh_d][h
Ski Apache 7d][b<_h[
12 Culture, Climate, Great Skiing I_fWfk

FW`Wh_je ;ifW‹ebW
Angel Fire CehW
16 Mountain of Options LWbb[i9WbZ[hW
Bei7bWcei
@[c[pIfh_d]i Ia_IWdjW<[
IWdjW<[
Winter Recreation BWiL[]Wi

19 Enchanted Winter IWdOi_Zhe

7cWh_bbe
IWdZ_WF[Wa
Taos Ski Valley JkYkcYWh_
20 High Mountain Hijinks 7bXkgk[hgk[
9b_d[i9ehd[hi
7bXkgk[hgk[
?djÊbIkdfehj IWdjWHeiW
Shopping & Dining
23 Après-ski, Say Si!

BkXXeYa
LWk]^d
Red River <ehjIkcd[h
24 Comin’ Round the Mountain 9bel_i

FehjWb[i
Ski Santa Fe IeYehhe
28 Five-Star Winter Ski Vacation IWd7djed_e

Sandia Peak & Tram

31 Seek the Peak 9Whh_pepe

Ia_7fWY^[
BkXXeYa

Heim[bb
Pajarito Hk_Zeie
32 Enchanted Secret ?dde\j^[
CekdjW_d=eZi

Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort

33 Family-Friendly Fun 7bWcW]ehZe 7hj[i_W
InSET: Ian Flanagan; MAP: Vincent ThomÉ

Cross Country Skiing

34 Ski Enchantment
BWi9hkY[i
Sponsors & Advertisers
36 Business Index
Ski New Mexico ;bFWie
38 Become a Member
4SLOPES Ski New Mexico | www.Skinewmexico.COM
 HERE, IT’S NO COINCIDENCE
THAT SNOW FALLS
FROM HEAVEN. -THE MOUNTAIN

TAO-7955_Heaven n2.indd 1 8/14/08 11:55:07 AM

 Welcome to New Mexico

Hitting the Slopes!

Your decision to visit the “Land of Enchantment” will prove to
be one of the best winter vacation destinations of your life. The
eight alpine and three Nordic ski areas dotted throughout the
state will provide you with ultimate sporting options, outstanding
scenery, unbelievable food, out of this world shopping, and a
never-to-be forgotten cultural experience.
Our unique offerings include a Native American-
Cover photo: run ski resort, an old wild-west town, a Swiss
Ken Gallard
alpine village resort, a mom-and-pop-run resort,
George Brooks and our perfect weather. New Mexico prides itself
Executive Director, Publisher
in having a diversity of ski communities all delivering a warm, un-crowded
gbrooks@skinewmexico.com
and friendly experience for our guests.
Emily Esterson
Editor-in-Chief In the “Land of Enchantment” it snows at night and offers up “blue bird”
emily@slopesmag.com
skies and light fluffy powder snow the next day. And for those who want
Vincent Thomé packed trails, the “snow fairies” are out early in the morning to give you
Creative Director your desired surface.
vincent@slopesmag.com
As Executive Director of Ski New Mexico, I’d like
Stan Jones
Advertising Sales to also invite you to take your ski experience to
stan@slopesmag.com the next level by getting involved in the industry.

Contributing writers and editors: Our organization is open to all. Among the ranks
Celestia Loeffler, Eric Sampson, of our not-for-profit membership are ski-oriented
Scot Key, Kelly Koepke,
businesses, individual skiers and snowboarders,
Jill Lane, Eric Billingsley
and local and national tourism groups. If snow
Slopes! — The New Mexico Winter Adventure
sports are important to you or your business, consider joining Ski New
Guide is published once a year by Ski New
Mexico, Inc., a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) orga- Mexico. Information about membership is found on page 38.
nization supporting New Mexico’s major ski
areas, resorts and the winter sports industry. Over 300 inches of snow each winter and over 300 days of sunshine each
Printed in the United States of America
year: a recipe for incredible days of skiing and riding. If this sounds too
by Ski New Mexico, Inc., PO Box 90037,
Albuquerque, NM 87199. 505-858-2422. good to be true, come and experience it for yourself.
©Copyright 2008, Ski New Mexico. All Rights
Reserved. Reproduction of this guide’s con- I will be looking for you on our slopes this winter!!!
tents, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited
without written permission by the publisher. Sincerely,
Ski New Mexico has made every effort to
maintain accuracy and timeliness in the
information provided herein. However, in-
formation is subject to change prior to or
during the ski season. Ski New Mexico as- George Brooks
sumes no responsibility for errors, changes
Executive Director, Ski New Mexico, Inc.
or omissions in this guide.
“Ski and Ride the Winter Sun”

6SLOPES Ski New Mexico | www.SkiNewMexico.com

An electrifying new resort at the foot of
the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
The untamed energy of Las Vegas and the magic and mysticism of Native
American culture have collided to create the largest, most electrifying resort to
ever strike New Mexico. Discover the thrill of winning and the hospitality of Hilton.
Dine, dance and dream all in one place. Feel free. Feel electric. NOW OPEN
Minutes from Ski Santa Fe. Call now for great winter rates and packages.
5 0 5 . 4 5 5 . 5 5 5 5 | 8 0 0 . H I LT O N S
gaming | hotel | fine dining | spa | golf | nightclub B u f f a l oT h u n d e r R e s o r t . c o m
 New Mexico

Why Here?
New Mexico’s ski experience is like no other. The combination
of world-class mountains and unique, down-home atmosphere
found in the Land of Enchantment is unmatched.

T here’s a reason New Mexico’s

nickname is the “Land of
Enchantment.” No matter the season,
Rocky Mountains means plenty of
shredder-deluxe dry powder dumps
each season, perfect for everyone
it offers some of the most beautiful from absolute beginners to master
land and skyscape in the world. Like carvers. Not to mention over 300
any vacation, your winter getaway days of sunshine a year, with views
really begins with getting to your often extending hundreds of miles.
destination. In a world of travel These world-class conditions are
frustration, Albuquerque Inter- shared by families whose focus is a
national Sunport is an oasis of calm fun and challenging winter adven-
in a sea of crisis. Step off the plane ture, not the next fashion trend.
into the tile-and-adobe terminal and It’s not about “being seen” here, but
you may think you’ve landed in an about the chance to hit over 400
art museum instead trails throughout
of an airport. By car, the state and spend
you’ll notice a lack of time relaxing in
bumper-to-bumper Ending a full day New Mexico’s quiet
traffic throughout of uninterrupted beauty. And because
the state. Why go slope busting with a the crowds don’t
skiing if it’s like com- New Mexico meal is resemble being at

muting to work? The satisfaction itself.
state is at the cross-
roads of two major
interstates. The dry
climate means the slopes are plenty
snowy, but our roads are nearly
always clear. Traveling to the slopes
becomes just another chance to see
the outrageously beautiful scenery—
which changes from red canyons to
piñon-covered hills to snowcapped
peaks. No place else has such a
diverse landscape.
Once at the mountain, you’ll
notice the restful pace of getting
here continues. Fabulous snow does
not have to mean less-than-fabulous
people. And the snow is fabulous.
Lying at the southern end of the
8SLOPES Ski New Mexico | www.SkiNewMexico.com
TOP TO BOTTOM: Jack Affleck, KEN GALLARD, Jack Affleck, Ellen Miller-Goins; OPPOSITE: KEN gallard
the mall on the day
after Thanksgiving,
you get the chance
to hit trails again,
and again, and again. All this at lift
prices that don’t require the services
of a loan officer.
Less money spent at the lift
means more chances to spend time
exploring the cultural scene. Still-
active Native American pueblos
dot the state, while Anasazi Indian
sites excite and inspire professional
archaeologists and casual sightseers
alike. Villages throughout northern
New Mexico are home to direct de-
scendants of 16th century Spanish
explorers. You can see the artistic
continued...
2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide SLOPES9
08080100_0_3319SNM_SNMS_8X10.875_F.ai 8/28/08 7:01:19 PM

8.0”

10.875”

Home of Billy the Kid, the Old West spirit and rich Native American and Spanish cultures, New Mexico
just may be the best place on the planet. Or any planet. Call for a free brochure. 800-733-6396 ext. 119.

newmexicoearth.org

3319SNM_SNMS_8” X 10.875”
TRIM: 8" X 10.875" LIVE: 7.25" X 10” BLEED: 8.25" X 11.125”
CLIENT: STATE OF NEW MEXICO
SCALE: 1:1 REV(S): 1
TITLE: ALIENS_COWBOY PUB: SKI NM SLOPED
COLOR(S): CMYK CLOSE: 8/28/08
IMAGES: HI RES
INSERTION: TBD M&C SAATCHI
REVISE APPROVED _________________________________________________________________ REVISE APPROVED _________________________________________________________________
 All the Inn Spots
in Downtown Santa Fe!
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KEN GALLARD

Great sun and incredible snow:

New Mexico has lots of both.

influence of these cultures in much

of the world-famous art found in
galleries throughout the state.
If your love of skiing leaves no
time for a visit to our fascinating
cultural haunts, you can still live the
true New Mexico through our food.
You might have heard of chiles, and,
yeah, we’ve got ’em. And they’re
spectacular. But New Mexican food
is more, taking simple peasant

The dry climate means

the slopes are plenty
snowy, but our roads
% %#! %$$&%""# %!"$&!"
are nearly always clear. dddU\aRY`N[aNSRP\Z dddYN`]NY\ZN`P\Z dddV[[\[aUR]N`R\P\Z

dishes and sophisticating them in Rocky Mountain Sports

a way that has led plenty of world-
class chefs to take up residence
here. Subtle and filling without pre-
tension, ending a full day of unin-
terrupted slope busting with a New
Mexico meal is satisfaction itself.
So, if you want to get away from
high-prices, stifling crowds and the
run-of-the-mill, run to New Mexico.
Better yet, bring your skis.
2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide
www.ruidosoreservations.com 800-545-9017
1103 Mechem Drive, Ruidoso, NM 88345 575-258-5200
So much more than a room for the night!
Complete ski/snowboard packages are our
specialty! Enjoy luxurious mountain-view
lodging, hot tubs, pool tables. Discounts
on equipment rentals and lift tickets. Pick
up your keys and skis at the same location.
Live toll free reservations 24/7.
condotel@ruidosoreservations.com
SKI APACHE SLOPES11
 Ski Apache
Lift Ticket Rates* Adult Teen Child Senior
Age Range 18-59 13-17 under 13 60-69

Full-Day $51 $43 $32 $45

Half- Day $34 $31 $23 $31

Two-day $102 $86 $64 $90

Three-Day $144 $121.50 $90 $127

Four-Day $192 $162 $120 $164

* Check with the resort for special military discounts.
12SLOPES Visa, MC, AMEX, Discover accepted.Ski Prices subject| to
New Mexico change.
www.SkiNewMexico.com
 Ski Apache

Culture, Climate, Great Skiing

As one of the southernmost ski destinations in the U.S., Ski Apache considers itself a
gateway for visitors from the Southwest and Mexico. But riders from all over the world
visit the sunny mountain getaway.

L ocated in the picturesque

Sierra Blanca mountain
range near Ruidoso, New Mexico,
Ski Apache, which is owned and
operated by the Mescalero Apache
tribe, is located on the reservation
and adjacent to Lincoln National
Forest. Only three hours southeast of
Albuquerque, the base elevation
rises 9,600 feet above sea level
while the peak is at 11,400 feet.
Sierra Blanca peak forms a stunning
backdrop for the area.
Long before settlers came to New
Mexico, the mountains, plains and
deserts in this part of the South-
west belonged to the Mescalero
Apaches. And the 463,000-acre
reservation near Ruidoso and
the ski area were once consid-
INSET PHOTOS 1, 2, 4 and Opposite Courtesy of Ski Apache; INSET #3, GARY SMITH; AT RIGHT: TOM GAGE
For freestylers, the resort offers
three terrain parks for beginning, in-
termediate and advanced shredders.
More than 100 Professional Ski
Instructors of America-certified
teachers provide lessons for all skill
For the 2008/2009 seasons, Ski levels and for ages 4 and up. There
Apache will begin snowmaking on are also separate rental shops for
the top of the mountain. Because skiers and snowboarders.
of its southern location, Ski Apache The ski area’s dining options
is always prepared should Mother include: Eagle Café, a cafeteria-
Nature withhold snow. The snow- style restaurant; Arrowheads Pasta
making crews at Ski Apache work the Express, located at the lower level of
night shift in freezing temperatures the main lodge; The Daily Grind for
covering the mountain in a hail of a latte, espresso, or cup of Joe; the
man-made snow. Dawg House for a hot dog; and the
Ski Apache prides itself on Spirit Bar for a beer, cocktail and
catering to beginning and inter- some television.
mediate skiers and snowboarders. In winter, ski and lodging pack-
ages from Inn of the Moun-
tain Gods Resort and Casino,
also owned by the Mescalero
Apache, are a convenient option.

ered their heartland. Geronimo’s Located just outside of town,

(1829-1909) descendants still the Inn has 273 luxury rooms
reside here. and suites, several restaurants,
The original ski area opened a pool, a 38,000-square-foot
in 1961. Today, Ski Apache casino, and additional entertain-
boasts 1,800 feet of vertical ment options. It offers a vari-
drop, 750 acres of skiable ter- ety of ski packages that include
rain, and 55 runs, including the lodging, lift tickets, equipment
SEASON . . . . . . . . . . . Thanksgiving though Easter
Apache bowl and “Boneyard” rental and breakfast.
LIFT HOURS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:45 AM to 4:00 PM
terrain park. And if you love to For those wishing for a day or
ANNUAL AVERAGE SNOWFALL . . . . . . . . 180 inches
ski but don’t love the cold, Ski two of off-slope recreation, there
SNOWMAKING . . . . . . . 13 trails on lower mountain
Apache is for you. The average are plenty of options: history,
ELEVATIONS . . . 9,600 feet, 11,400 feet lift-served
temperature in winter is in the VERTICAL DROP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,800 feet casinos, scenery and culture.
30s, with plenty of sunshine. 11 LIFTS . . . . . . . . . . . 4-person gondola, 2 quads, As one of two American
However, visitors are advised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 triples, 1 double, 2 surface. Indian-owned ski resorts in the
that even though the climate is LIFT CAPACITY . . . . . . . . . . 16,500 skiers per hour world, Ski Apache mixes native
milder than other resorts, Ski 55 TRAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% beginner, culture with winter adventure for
Apache still gets its share of . . . . . . . . . . . 40% intermediate, 40% advanced a relaxing, diverse and exciting
severe winter weather. WEBSITE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.skiapache.com winter vacation. 
2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide SLOPES13
N E W M E X I C O

Lodging in Angel Fire
Angel Fire
Mountain Rentals
575-377-6767 • Toll Free: 888-387-6767
www.angelfiremountainrentals.com
Nightly, Weekly and Monthly Rates.
If you want a condo at the base of Angel Fire
ski slopes or a home with spectacular views,
we have the property for you.
photo credits:
Contact Brenda and reserve your vacation
rental today! brenda.johnson@remax.net
2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide
Ski the Best Snow in New Mexico!
Location: 9 miles to Angel Fire, 18 miles
to Red River, 54 miles to Taos Ski Valley.
On Highway 64 w/ our own snow removal
equipment to get you in and out!
2 BR Cabins $77 including tax.
Four Seasons Real Estate
ANGEL FIRE
Angel Nest Retreat
www.AngelNestRetreat.com 877-246-8002
AngelNest@MYIBOCS.com 575-377-0533
• Vacation homes (Sleep 10-20)
• Cabins (Sleep 4, 6, 8+)
• All with baths, fully equipped kitchens,
laundry, WiFi Internet
• Awesome panoramic views!
• RV park open all year.
Vacation rentals of economy, standard
and premium condos and homes in
Angel Fire. Also offering Real Estate
sales throughout the Moreno Valley.
800-888-6062 • 575-377-2788
www.fourseasonsnm.com
Kathy Derwin, Qualifying Broker
SLOPES15
 Angel Fire
Lift Ticket Rates * Adult Teen junior Senior
Age Range 18-69 13-17 7-12 70+

Full-Day $59 $52 $39 $0

Half-Day $44 $36 $33 $0

* Children under 6 and Seniors 70+ FREE. Fifth Graders Ski and Snowboard FREE.
16SLOPES Visa, MC, AMEX, Discover accepted. Prices Ski
subject to change.
New Mexico | www.SkiNM.org
 Angel Fire

Mountain of Options
You might be that first-time skier who prefers Angel Fire’s front side for its gentle, west-facing
slopes and the incredible views of the Moreno Valley and Wheeler Peak. Or perhaps you’re an
expert boarder who craves the back side of Angel Fire’s mountain, with its selection of steeps,
glades and, of course, Liberation Freestyle Park. Regardless of what you ride, or how long you’ve
been at it, the charm of Angel Fire is easy to grasp. You’ve got choices.

B lack diamonds or easy greens?

Groomers or glades? Lowrider
Park or Liberation? Nordic skiing?
Ice fishing? Angel Fire Resort strives
to find something to keep every
member of the family happy.
Angel Fire is situated at 8,600 feet
above sea level in the Sangre de Cristo
Mountains, just 23 miles from Taos,
and about a three-hour drive from
Albuquerque. Located in the scenic
Moreno Valley, a 15-mile long,
3-mile wide, high alpine valley
with an 8,382 base elevation
surrounded by mountains ranging
from 11,086 foot Agua Fria Peak
on the south end of the valley
to 12,441 foot Baldy Peak at the
north end of the valley. Wheeler
Peak at 13,161 feet, the highest
mountain in New Mexico, forms
INSET PHOTS: 1, 2, 3 Jack Affleck; #4 Barwick; OPPOSITE: KEN GALLARD; At right: Barwick
has true variety of terrain, but it’s not
so big that you’ll get separated from
others for very long.
a dedicated chairlift, multiple jumps,
rails, funboxes and a “short school
bus” for advanced riders.
In addition to being family Ski and snowboarding lessons are
friendly, the resort prides itself on available for kids ages 4 to 12.The ski
appealing to the freestyle ski and school also offers adult lessons. They
snowboard crowd. Two freestyle include group lessons for beginners,
parks have something for everyone. freeride workshops and private
Lowrider Park features lower rails lessons. The First Tracks program
and smaller features for burgeoning offers intermediate and advanced
freestylers. Liberation Park features skiers and boarders the chance to
ride with instructors before lifts
open to the public.
This season, Angel Fire will
roll out an expanded terrain
park with new features, and a
new glade skiing area.
The full-service Angel Fire
Resort Hotel has rooms that are
only a few steps from the Chile
Express chairlift. It offers the

the northwest boundary of the Branding Iron restaurant on the

valley. Private aircraft owners second floor for breakfast; the
can access the mountain by flying SEASON . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 19 - March 29 Lazy Lizard Cantina on the sec-
into Angel Fire Airport (KAXX). LIFT HOURS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM ond floor for drinks and sports;
Angel Fire, like much of New BASE ELEVATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8,600 feet and the Latte Lift in the lobby for
Mexico, has terrific weather, with SUMMIT ELEVATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10,677 feet that early morning or afternoon
winter daytime high temperatures VERTICAL DROP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,077 feet caffeine fix. There are also mul-
CHAIR LIFTS . . . . . 2 high-speed quads, 3 doubles,
averaging in the 30s. tiple pit-stops on the mountain.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Sunkid Wondercarpets
Legend has it that of Angel Whatever your winter
FREESTYLE . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Trails: 26% beginner,
Fire’s 70+ ski trails, 26 percent recreation pleasure, whether it’s
. . . . . . . . . . . 50% intermediate, 24% advanced
are considered “beginner,” 50 NORDIC CENTER . . . . . . . 22km of terrain, 4 trails, carving turns, freestyling, or
percent “intermediate,” and 24 . . . . . . . 1 beginner, 2 intermediate, 1 advanced simply watching the “fire of the
percent “advanced.” There are AVERAGE SNOWFALL . . . . . . . 210 inches annually angels” sunset with a mug of
two high-speed quad chairlifts, SNOWMAKING . . . . . . . . . . . 52% of the mountain, steaming hot chocolate, Angel
three double chairlifts and two . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85% of beginner terrain Fire can provide a memorable
Sunkid Wondercarpets. The resort WEBSITE . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.angelfireresort.com winter adventure experience. 
2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide SLOPES17
LIKE
AN ANGEL
IN A CLOAK OF
PERFECT SNOW,
SHE KISSES YOU WITH
GRAVITY AND LAYS YOU
DOWN IN HER ARMS OF
BLESSED POWDER.
IT’S LIKE
SNOW CHURCH.

8 0 0 . 6 3 3 . P I N E w w w . a n g e l f i r e r e s o r t . c o m
 Winter Recreation

Enchanted Winter
With incomparable weather, the friendliest people and plenty to
do in the crisp snowy days of winter, there’s no reason to look
beyond New Mexico for a winter vacation. From great powder
skiing to tubing, ice-skating, sleigh rides and snow mobiling,
New Mexico is truly a winter wonderland.

M ountains, sun, blue skies

day after day. At the south-
ern end of the Rocky Mountains
lies enchanting New Mexico, and
its stunning Sangre de Cristo (or
Blood of Christ) range. They were
so named because they turn red
during the Land of Enchantment’s
legendary winter sunsets. Taos,
Santa Fe and Pajarito all lay within
the Sangre de Cristos.
So maybe you’re not ready to
practice your triple axle, but you
do feel like donning a pair of
skates and gliding around in
an alcove of piñon and juniper
trees. Well, welcome to the Los
Alamos County Ice Rink, a com-
munity outdoor rink that’s been
open since 1947. This rink is the
only refrigerated, NHL regula-
tion, outdoor ice rink in New
Mexico. From November through
February, it’s open 120-125 hours
per week, weather permitting.
Stop into the warming hut
stocked with hot cocoa, coffee and
other beverages and snacks. The
warming hut has large picture win-
dows to view the skaters and the
picturesque canyon while you stay
sheltered from the elements.
The Taos Ice Arena is a quaint
ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
Admission is inexpensive, and they
offer skate rentals, as well as in-
dividual and group lessons. And
when you’re done showing off your
moves, you can fuel up on goodies
at the snack bar.
Speaking of Taos, let’s talk tub-
ing! Wednesday through Saturday
evenings during ski season, grown-
ups and children alike will love
hopping into the rubber tubes and
sliding down the ski hill over and
over again. And afterwards you can
For those who like the
scenery to go by a little more
slowly, sleigh rides offer a
more relaxing experience.
thaw out by the fire at the St. Ber-
nard with a signature cocktail or
cocoa in hand.
A few hours south of Taos are
tubing and sledding experiences
for the truly adventurous. At the
winter wonderland of Ruidoso
Winter Park, twists, turns, bumps
and jumps get your heart pumping.
The area features two magic car-
pet lifts that whisk you to the top
six riders, or super-sized tubes for
up to 10 riders. They’re located 1/4
mile west of Highway 48 on lower
Ski Run Road in the Eagle Creek
Sports Complex, and offer twilight
tubing on selected nights through
the Christmas holidays.
If you’re looking for a post-
skiing activity at Angel Fire Resort,
there’s a groomed hill and tubes
that are plenty of fun for the
whole family.
While in Angel Fire, consider
a snowmobile to zoom into the
woods. Angel Fire Excursions
offers guided tours of the back-
country. They offer daytime or
overnight trips to the Brazos
Wilderness in Carson National
Forest. In the same area you
can also find guides to take you
hunting or ice fishing.
For those who like the scen-
ery to go by a little more slowly,
sleigh rides offer a more relaxing
experience. Sit back in a horse-
drawn sleigh and slide through the
serene New Mexico forests. When in
Angel Fire or Ruidoso, this is an
activity you won’t want to pass up.
However you envision your win-
ter vacation, New Mexico is a spec-
tacular place to visit. Your options

indoor/outdoor skating arena lo- of the hill. They even have specially are virtually limitless… you might
cated just on the outskirts of town. designed tubes that seat three to not want to leave! 

2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide SLOPES19

 Taos Ski Valley
Lift Ticket Rates* Adult Teen Child Senior
Age Range 18-64 13-17 7-12 65-79

Full-Day $66 $55 $40 $50

Half-Day $50 $41 $30 n/a

2+ consecutive days
$63 $53 $37 $50
(per Day)

Discount Season
$40 $30 $25 $40
(11/27-12/19 & 3/30-4/05)

* Children under 6 and Seniors 80+ FREE.

Seniors between 70-79 qualify for $100 Season Pass
Visa, MC, AMEX, Discover accepted. Prices subject to change.
20SLOPES Ski New Mexico | www.SkiNM.org
 Taos Ski Valley

High Mountain Hijinks

“Legendary” and “epic.” These two words are fitting descriptions of Taos Ski Valley, located
at 9,200 feet above sea level in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northern New Mexico,
and only a three-hour drive from Albuquerque’s International Sunport and two hours from
Santa Fe. Taos’ claim to fame: an abundance of fabulous terrain, perfect blue skies day in
and day out, and deep, fluffy powder.

T hat powder and terrain were

exactly what attracted Ernie
Blake to Taos. On May 15, 1954,
Blake and a friend hiked to the
top of what is now Taos Ski Valley,
where he found skiing nirvana: feet
of deep powder and challenging
slopes. Blake and his wife Rhoda
officially founded Taos Ski Valley the
following year.
Today, the resort is still a
family-owned business. Known
for its abundance of steep
terrain, Taos rates 51 percent
of runs expert level and above,
25 percent are considered “in-
INSET PHOTOS 2, 3, 4 AND OPPOSITE MiCHAEL HOLMQUIST; INSET #1 Courtesy Taos ski valley; AT RIGHT: Ken Gallard
12,481 feet above sea level) to find
those cherished stashes of powder.
And last March, a new chapter
about skiing and snowboarding.
One of the highlights of the season
is the annual Taos Winter Wine
began in the legend of Taos. As one Festival. The event showcases
of the few areas that didn’t allow wines from around the world, in-
snowboarders, Taos welcomed them cludes grand tastings, seminars,
to the mountain for the first time and winemaker dinners.
in the resort’s history. Snowboard In addition to the wine festival,
lessons are also now available. the resort hosts beer festivals, nu-
And Taos Ski Valley is not just merous ski competitions, snow-
boarding races and clinics, as
well as ongoing workshops and
camps for all skill levels.
Lodging on the mountain is a
blend of rustic ski lodge charm
and elegance, with a Swiss-

termediate,” and 24 percent chalet style undertone, harkening

rated “beginner.” back to the Blake family roots.
But newcomers and less ag- There are a variety of ski-in, ski-
gressive riders fear not, espe- out condominiums, quaint bed
cially when staring up at the and breakfasts, luxury hotels
mammoth-sized moguls on Al’s SEASON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 27 - April 5 and individual cabin rentals in
Run. Taos offers one of the top- LIFT HOURS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM the valley.
rated ski schools in the country. AVERAGE ANNUAL SNOWFALL . . . . . . . . 305 inches If you need a break from the
In fact, the valley’s wildly popu- AVERAGE DAYS OF SUNSHINE . . . . . . . . . 300+ days slopes, visit the historic town of
lar Ski Weeks bring regulars and TOTAL ACREAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,294 acres Taos, with its mixture of Native
newbies together for six days 110 TRAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24% beginner, American culture, historic adobe
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25% intermediate, 51% expert
of instruction. Ski Weeks are buildings, Spanish-style plaza,
12 LIFTS . . . . . 4 quad, 1 triple, 5 double, 2 surface
designed to buff up technique, dozens of art galleries, boutique
BASE ELEVATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9,207 feet
but an added benefit is the spon- shops and world-class dining.
HIGHEST LIFT SERVED . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11,819 feet
taneous friendships that develop. Far from Blake’s beginnings,
KACHINA PEAK ELEVATION . . . . . . . . . . 12,481 feet
Taos is known for its steeps, VERTICAL DROP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,612 feet, when he and Rhoda lived in a
narrows, glades and bump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,274 feet at Kachina Peak camper at the base and skiers
runs. Hardcores can hike The UPHILL CAPACITY . . . . More than 15,000 skiers/hr had only one run to choose
Ridge to Kachina Peak (one SNOWMAKING CAPABILITIES . . . . 100% of beginner from, Taos Ski Valley is known
of the highest points in New . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . and intermediate slopes today as a world-class winter
Mexico with an elevation of WEBSITE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.skitaos.org sports destination. 
2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide SLOPES21
 LODGING
LODGING
TAOS SKI VALLEY
TAOS SKI VALLEY
Beautiful slopeside suites sleep two to
Beautiful slopeside suites sleep two to
four in privacy. Fireplaces, kitchenettes,
four in privacy. Fireplaces, kitchenettes,
outdoor hot tub, sauna, ski lockers,
outdoor hot tub, sauna, ski lockers,
covered valet parking. Ski-Better-Weeks,
covered valet parking. Ski-Better-Weeks,
early and late season packages available!
early and late season packages available!
In the heart of Taos Ski Valley.
In the heart of Taos Ski Valley.
Let us create a ski package to fit your
Let us create a ski package to fit your
needs. We make skiing fun and easy
needs. We make skiing fun and easy
with lodging and lift packages starting
with lodging and lift packages starting
at $89.00 per person, per night. Check
at $89.00 per person, per night. Check
our website for up-to-date specials.
our website for up-to-date specials.
Friendly, Fun & Convenient.
Friendly, Fun & Convenient.

Alpine
AlpineVillage
Village Suites
Suites Columbine Inn
Columbine Inn&&Conference
ConferenceCenter Center
www.alpine-suites.com • info@alpine-suites.com www.columbineinntaos.com • psgeilen@taosnet.com
www.alpine-suites.com • info@alpine-suites.com www.columbineinntaos.com • psgeilen@taosnet.com
800.576.2666
800.576.2666
888.884.5723
888.884.5723
The
Thepeak
peakofofluxury
luxury in
in Taos
Taos Ski
Ski Two-minutewalk
walktotothe
the lift!
Two-minute lift!
Valley, slope side on Strawberry
Valley, slope side on Strawberry Studios,one
oneand
andtwo
twobedroom.
bedroom.
Studios,
Hill.
Hill.Ski-in/ski-out
Ski-in/ski-outcondos
condos with
with ski
ski Condoswith
withfully
fullyequipped
equipped
Condos
valet
valetservice.
service.OnOnsite
site ski
ski shop, kitchen,fireplace,satellite
satellite
shop, kitchen,fireplace, tv,tv, DVD,
DVD,
fitness
fitnesscenter,
center,sauna,
sauna, and
and day
day spa.
spa. balcony.Wireless
WirelessInternet.
Internet.
balcony.
The resort’s best dinner house
The resort’s best dinner house ConferenceRoom.
Room.OpenOpen
Conference allall year!
year!
and
andlounge.
lounge. Callnow
Call nowfor
forlow
lowseason
season specials.
specials.
Edelweiss
EdelweissLodge
Lodge &
& Spa
Spa Sierra del
Sierra del Sol
SolCondominiums
Condominiums
www.edelweisslodgeandspa.com
www.edelweisslodgeandspa.com••stay@edelweisslodgeandspa.com
stay@edelweisslodgeandspa.com
www.sierrataos.com••sol@newmex.com
www.sierrataos.com sol@newmex.com
800.458.8754
800.458.8754 800.523.3954
800.523.3954
VACATION RENTALS
VACATION RENTALS
Enjoythe
Enjoy thebest
bestguest
guestservices
services from
from the
the Specializing
Specializingininupscale
upscaleand
andunique Taos
unique Taos
leadingprovider
leading providerof ofvacation
vacationrentals
rentals in
in Taos vacation
vacationrentals,
rentals,Cabins
Cabinstoto
Mansions,
Mansions,
&&thetheTaos
TaosSkiSkiValley.
Valley.Our
Ouraccommodations
accommodations Economy
EconomytotoLuxury,
Luxury,Taos
Taos toto
Taos SkiSki
Taos Valley.
Valley.
arefully
are fullyfurnished,
furnished,most
mosthave
have views,
views, hot
hot Satellite
SatelliteTV,
TV,hot
hottubs,
tubs,jacuzzi tubs,
jacuzzi tubs,views,
views,
tubs, fireplaces and Wi-Fi. From moderate
tubs, fireplaces and Wi-Fi. From moderate DSL.
DSL.Premiere’s
Premiere’stop
toppriority
priorityis is
insuring
insuring
totoluxury,
luxury,condominiums
condominiumsto toprivate
private homes,
homes, guests
guestsan
anexceptional
exceptionallodging
lodging experience.
experience.
rentfor
rent fortwo
twonights
nightstotoone
one year.
year.

Kokopelli
Kokopelli
TaosReal
Taos RealEstate
Estate&&Property
PropertyMgmt.
Mgmt.
www.kokoproperty.com • askus@kokoproperty.com
www.kokoproperty.com • askus@kokoproperty.com
800.480.7150
800.480.7150
TOWN OF
TOWN OF TAOS
TAOS
Luxury at a higher level. Four Diamond
Luxury at a higher level. Four Diamond
Resort in Taos offers a world class spa,
Resort in Taos offers a world class spa,
guestrooms, suites and casitas with
guestrooms, suites and casitas with
fireplaces and hot tubs all surrounded by
fireplaces and hot tubs all surrounded by
luxury. Restaurant and lounge with live
luxury. Restaurant and lounge with live
entertainment. Ski Packages available.
entertainment. Ski Packages available.
Premiere
Premiere Properties
PropertiesVacation
VacationRentals,
Rentals,LLC
LLC
www.taosvacationhomes.com
www.taosvacationhomes.com••premiere@newmex.com
premiere@newmex.com
800.987.8423
800.987.8423
Stay in town and get real value. Free
Stay in town and get real value. Free
shuttle to ski slopes. Full service hotel
shuttle to ski slopes. Full service hotel
with bar, restaurant, complimentary
with bar, restaurant, complimentary
breakfast, free high speed internet.
breakfast, free high speed internet.
Ski packages for Comfort Suites and
Ski packages for Comfort Suites and
Sagebrush Inn, available too.
Sagebrush Inn, available too.

El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa Quality Inn

El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa
www.elmontesagrado.com Quality
www.taoshotels.com Inn
• quality@newmex.com
800.828.8267
www.elmontesagrado.com 888.610.8267
www.taoshotels.com • quality@newmex.com
800.828.8267 888.610.8267

Find Ski Packages at TaosPillowPackages.com

Find Ski Packages at TaosPillowPackages.com
 Shopping & Dining
Après-ski, Say Si!
New Mexico’s incomparable establishments extend your
adventure beyond the slopes.
N ew Mexico’s ski areas offer
much more than just great
powder and groomed trails. Some
of the Land of Enchantment’s tasti-
est eats and best shopping surround
the slopes.
SANTA FE — Less than an hour from
Valles Caldera, Enchanted Forest
and Pajarito, and just 20 minutes
from Ski Santa Fe, is the worldclass
dining that defines Santa Fe. South-
western style infuses the cuisine, and
even the burgers have a Santa Fe
spin. Hip means dressing up your
faded blue jeans and worn cow-
boy boots with a swank bolo tie
or leather jacket as you sample
everything from Spanish tapas to
French nouvelle. The state slogan
might as well be “Red or Green,”
and in Santa Fe, you’ll have the op-
portunity to sample New Mexico’s
famous chile in all its forms—from
haute cuisine to oh-so-hot.
Santa Fe is also internationally
recognized for the art galleries that
surround the plaza and line Canyon
Road. In fact, Santa Fe is one of the
country’s largest art markets—on
par with New York and San Fran-
cisco. Local galleries feature New
Mexican and international artists
who create everything from tradi-
tional Native American pottery and
jewelry to contemporary painting,
sculpture and multimedia designs.
KEN GALLARD
If you prefer wearable art, browse
the city’s boutiques for funky
2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide SLOPES23
clothes, chic housewares and the
unique shops that tweak ordinary
gifts into extraordinary finds.
ALBUQUERQUE — From Sandia
Peak’s ski area, a quick tram ride or
leisurely drive down the back of the
Watermelon Mountain brings you
to the heart of Albuquerque, where
the choices for eating and shopping
are almost limitless.
Locals flock to Nob Hill and Old
Town to find quirky restaurants,
boutiques and galleries filled with
New Mexico’s best chefs, artists
The state motto might
as well be “Red or green?”
and craftspeople. Nob Hill fea-
tures several of Albuquerque’s best
locally-owned gourmet restaurants;
Old Town is all about traditional
New Mexican food. And sometimes
it comes with live music.
RUIDOSO — Located closer to the
Mexican border than any other ski
resort town in the U.S., those crav-
ing authentic Mexican fare won’t
have to travel far from the slopes.
Ruidoso offers all kinds of cuisine,
from French to Texas steakhouse.
A pleasant stroll through Midtown
Ruidoso offers unique gift shops fea-
turing New Mexican jewelry, West-
ern antiques and collectibles, fine
art, handmade clothing, couture and
plenty of interesting browsing.
ENCHANTED CIRCLE — The ski
towns of Taos, Angel Fire, Red River,
and Sipapu, just south of Taos, form
an 85-mile loop through an extraor-
dinary landscape of mountains,
valleys, mesas and traditional villages
that time seems to have forgotten.
Called the Enchanted Circle, this
circuit provides both rustic and citi-
fied shopping, all within a few
miles of each of the resorts. As
home to some of New Mexico’s
earliest settlers, the area is known
for handmade Native crafts,
jewelry and weavings, Spanish
Colonial furniture and accessories,
cowboy fashions and flair.
In Angel Fire and Red River, old
mining towns, chuck-wagon style
dinners and Texas-sized steaks are
always on special. Taos is the desti-
nation for upscale, gourmet tastes.
Everywhere within the Enchanted
Circle is some of the best, tradition-
al New Mexican cuisine focusing on
simple ingredients and big flavors.
Whether you’re searching for a
piece of Santa Clara pueblo pottery
as a souvenir or a breakfast burrito
smothered with green chile, New
Mexico’s cultural, shopping and
eating opportunities round out a
powdery fresh winter adventure. 
 Red River
Lift Ticket Rates * Adult Teen Junior Senior
Age Range 20-64 13-19 4-12 65-69

Full-Day $58 $52 $43 $43

Half-Day $43 $38 $30 $30

3+ Days (Per Day) $51 $46 $38 $38

* Children under 4 and Seniors 70+ FREE.

Visa, MC, AMEX, Discover accepted. Prices subject to change.
Half-day ticket hours: 9 AM to 1 PM or 12 PM to 4 PM
24SLOPES Ski New Mexico | www.SkiNM.org
 Red River

Comin’ Round the Mountain

Red River, New Mexico is the quintessential southwestern ski town. It’s steeped in history, the
attitude is laid back, people are friendly, and best of all, chairlifts are a short walk from Main Street.

L ocated in Carson National

Forest in the Sangre de
Cristo Mountains of northern
anywhere in town. And if you
come in January, you can enjoy
the Red River Mardi Gras in the
New Mexico, Red River sits at Mountains celebration, which
8,750 feet above sea level and features Cajun cooking and
the ski area’s highest peak rises many fun events.
to 10,350 above sea level. Only The Red River Ski Area is
a three-hour drive from Albu- a great place to bring large
querque, you can wend your way groups. They offer special dis-
through some of New Mexico’s counts on lift tickets, lessons
most majestic terrain and find and rental equipment for groups
yourself in historic and beauti- larger than 20, so it’s the perfect
ful Red River. place to hold a family reunion or
In the late 1800s it was a Base Elevation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8,750 feet business retreat. But be sure
mining boomtown. Hundreds Lift hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 AM to 4 PM to contact them in advance, so
of gold, silver and copper Peak Elevation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10,350 feet they can accommodate.
mines were carved into the Vertical Drop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,600 feet Accomodations at Red River
mountain with names like Season . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 26 - March 29 include a variety of mountain
Average Annual Snowfall . . . . . . . . 218 inches
“Golden Treasure,” “Silver King” lodges, B&Bs, condominiums
Snowmaking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87% of trails
and “Black Copper.” and fully furnished cabin rent-
57 Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32% beginner,
The mines eventually played als to fit any budget or group size.
. . . . . . . . . . . 38% intermediate, 30% advanced
out and by the late 1920s and There’s plenty of entertainment,
7 Lifts . . . . . . . 2 triples, 4 doubles, 1 surface tow
1930s, Red River was consid- WebSITE . . . . . . . . . . . . www.redriverskiarea.com from live music to two-steppin’.
ered a mountain retreat for visi- And everything is within walking
tors looking for a break from the Facility accepts children from 6 distance in Red River.
heat. And in the 1950s, an Oklaho- months to 4 years old. And the What families find most ap-
man by the name of Stokes Bolton resort offers private and group les- pealing about Red River are the
opened the ski area. sons for children and adults. local folks. Friendly mom-and-pop
The Red River Ski and Snow- Not into alpine skiing and operations are the rule here. Parents
board Area started with little more snowboarding? No worries. The can feel safe letting their kids ski
than a chairlift built out of old oil Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski solo, or letting their teens explore
derricks, a T-bar lift and a rope and Snowshoe Area, located just five the venues that offer video games,
tow. It now has 290 acres of ride- minutes away, has miles of beautiful rollerskating and pool.
able terrain, a vertical drop of 1,600 trails to explore (see page 34). Red “I started going to Red River as
photoS Courtesy of Red River

feet and seven lifts. It was even vot- River Ski Area also offers guided a child in about 1953,” a Garland,
ed one of the top ten ski resorts by backcountry snowmobile tours and Texas, visitor writes on Red River
Sunset Magazine in 2006. a tubing hill. Ski Area’s Web site. “There is some-
The mountain also has a terrain On most Saturdays the ski area thing magical about this place for
park for freestyle skiers and snow- hosts a flaming torchlight parade me. My children are starting to feel
boarders. The Buckaroo Child Care at nightfall that can be seen almost the same way now.” 
2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide SLOPES25
RED RIVER
“Ski Town of the Southwest” Ski In, Ski Out, On the River!
www.RedRiver.org 877-754-1708

Most lodging is within walking distance of

the ski area and two chair lifts leave from the
center of town. No shuttles needed. Beginner to
advanced, Red River is the place to learn with
plenty of PSIA and AASI certified instructors. Get
your FREE vacation guide and check out our full
calendar of events and specials online.
A view from the Alpine property.

Red River’s Favorite

Alpine Lodge
www.AlpineLodgeRedRiver.com 800-252-2333
Sitzmark Sports & Lodge info@AlpineLodgeRedRiver.com 575-754-2952

www.sitzmarklodgenm.com 800-843-7547 Your Year-Round Mountain Retreat

www.sitzmarksportsnm.com 575-754-2456
1/2 Block from Ski Lift. First Class Service
Dept. Comfortable Condos and Cabins with
Free Wireless Internet Access, Kids Ski/Stay
Free. Wednesday Free Program. Non Smoking
Rooms. DVD, VCR, TV.
46 Condos and Hotel Rooms with Great Views.
Fireplaces, Hot Tubs, Kitchens, Free Wireless
Internet, Non-Smoking, AAA Approved, Groups
Welcome. Kids Stay Free / Ski Free and
4th Night Free Discounts.

Alpine Lodge
417 W. Main St., Red River, NM 87558

Sitzmark
1200 Pairs of Ski Rentals
Also
The Riverside
www.redriver-nm.com 800-432-9999
Snowboards, Snowblades, riverside@redriver-nm.com 575-754-2252
Snow Shoes, Mountain Bikes
and Skateboards

Call Ahead for Reservations and Rentals

Sitzmark Lodge and Sports
416 W. Main / Hwy 38
PO Box 87 Red River, NM 87558

Join Us for the Family

SkiRedRiver.com 877.977.SNOW
Vacation of a Lifetime!
www.SkiRedRiver.com 877-977-7669
Located in the Center of town.
One Stop Vacation Shopping Ski in, Ski out.

With one phone call, we take care of every * Hot Tub * Cable TV * Wireless Internet *
detail of your ski vacation! Book a trip with * Fireplaces * Full Kitchens * Playground *
us today!
Kids Ski Free & Wednesday Free Packages.
Vacation Planners • Custom or Package
PHOTO CREDITS:

Click or Call Today!

26SLOPES SKI NEW MEXICO | WWW.SKINEWMEXICO.COM

 Skiing Santa Fe? Stay 1 Night Free at La Fonda
The historic hotel on the Plaza features colorful, unique
rooms and suites plus La Terraza concierge level with
special amenities. Relax in the outdoor hot tub
and take advantage of spa services.
Sample Latin American cuisine in our
restaurant and enjoy live entertainment
and dancing nightly in our Lounge.
Ski Season Special
3 nights for the price of 2
from 11/27/08 through 4/12/09
(Subject to availability, blackout periods apply)
Book online or call today!
www.lafondasantafe.com
800-523-5002
(505) 982-5511

100 E. San Francisco Santa Fe, NM 87501

TLJ-!EJOF
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2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide SLOPES27

 Ski Santa Fe
Lift Ticket Rates* Adult Teen Child Senior
Age Range 21-61 13-20 12 & Under 62-71

Full-Day $58 $46 $40 $40

Half-Day $42 $42 $42 $42

Two-Day $110 $87 $76 $76

Three-day $162 $128 $112 $112

four-Day $211 $167 $146 $146

BeGinner Lift $29 $29 $29 $29

* Children 46” and under in their ski boots and Seniors 72+ FREE.
Visa, MC, AMEX, Discover accepted. Prices subject to change.
Half-day ticket hours: 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM or 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM
28SLOPES Ski New Mexico | www.SkiNM.org
 Ski Santa Fe

Five-Star Winter Ski Vacation

Location, location, location. Ski Santa Fe has it in spades. The mountain is just a 20-minute drive
from the historic town of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and an hour and a half from Albuquerque.

N estled in the Sangre

de Cristo Mountains,
the resort’s base area is at an
For the 2008/2009 season,
Ski Santa Fe will open a new
tree run on the upper moun-
elevation of 10,350 feet above tain called Sunset Glade; relo-
sea level, said to be one of the cate the terrain park to Lower
highest base areas in the conti- Gayway race hill and add new
nental United States. features to the park; open a new
And with the recent addition carpet lift at Chipmunk Corner;
of the New Millennium Triple and offer snowboard lessons for
Chairlift, skiers and snowboarders children ages 6-11.
can speed quickly to the summit, Ski Santa Fe has also be-
at 12,075 feet. Bring your camera come known for its telemarking
Base Elevation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10,350 feet
because the views are awesome. Peak Elevation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12,075 feet
lessons. If you’ve ever been
Whether you like to cruise the Vertical Drop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,725 feet interested in free-heeling, Santa
groomed runs, are learning to ski Season . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 27 - April 5 Fe is a great place to learn. In
or snowboard for the first time, or Ski Area Hours . . . . . . . . . . . 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM the 2008 season, the area of-
are an advanced rider, Ski Santa Average Annual Snowfall . . . . . . . . 225 inches fered a series of workshops and
Fe has plenty to offer. They even Snowmaking . . . . . . . . . . . . 50% of the mountain lessons for anyone—from kids
have classes for the telemark- 69 Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% beginner, to experts—who wanted to im-
er or racer, as well as adaptive . . . . . . . . . . . 40% intermediate, 40% advanced prove their free-heel technique.
skiing lessons for the physically 7 Lifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 quad, 2 triples, Lodging and dining is in the
and mentally challenged. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 doubles, 2 surface lifts city of Santa Fe, a world-class
There’s plenty of variety in Website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.skisantafe.com tourist destination. “The City
the resort’s 69 runs. The snow- service, onsite children’s complex Different” as some refer to it,
making and grooming staff is top- that offers nursery and daycare, a is the oldest capital city in North
notch. And the resort recently add- snow play area to help introduce America. It boasts an expansive
INSET PHOTOS AND OPPOSITE: GARy SMith; at right: courtesy of ski santa fe

ed a freestyle terrain park known
as “The Bone Yard.”
Advanced skiers can blast
down a smattering of bump runs,
narrow shoots, glades and a few
double black diamond runs. And
the powder skiing is phenomenal.
Insider tip for advanced and ex-
pert skiers: Check out “The Power
Lines” for wide-open powder skiing
after a storm, and an area known as
“Big Rocks” for your technical fix.
The Chipmunk Corner Children’s
Center at Ski Santa Fe is a full-
2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide SLOPES29
youngsters to the environment, and
lessons for kids as young as three
years old.
Ski Santa Fe also recently
launched the Burton Learn to Ride
Center, a program that incorpo-
rates the use of proper equipment
and proven teaching methods to
make learning to snowboard easy
and fun for everyone.
And if you forget your gloves or
hat, fret not! The Wintermill Sports
Shop has everything you need to en-
sure a perfect day on the slopes.
variety of art galleries and muse-
ums, gourmet restaurants and fine
hotels, inns and bed and break-
fasts. There are also plenty of per-
formance venues if you want to
catch some live music or theater
after a day of skiing.
Ski Santa Fe is blessed—it has
some of New Mexico’s best weather
and a variety of terrain for every
boarder or skier, no matter the skill
level. With its proximity to tourist
services, Ski Santa Fe is a great loca-
tion for the perfect ski vacation.
 Discover
the peacefulness of El Rey’s five lush
acres & charming rooms and suites.
Complimentary continental breakfast
& an outdoor whirlpool next to a hand-
crafted fireplace are yours to enjoy!

El Rey Inn
1862 Cerrillos Road
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87505
505 / 982-1931 • 800 / 521-1349
www . elreyinnsantafe . com

30SLOPES Ski New Mexico | www.SkiNewMexico.com

 Sandia Peak & Tram
Seek the Peak
Sandia Peak has a lot going for it. It’s just a 45-minute drive
from Albuquerque along the Sandia Crest Scenic Byway.
And it has some of New Mexico’s best ski conditions.
D uring the winter months, ski-
ers, snowboarders and other
winter sports enthusiasts can take
the tram from the northeast side of
Albuquerque, spend the day on the
slopes, then return to Albuquerque
via the tram. Considered the longest
aerial tramway in the world, the 2.7-
mile ride sails over deep canyons
and mountainous terrain. The view
from the top encompasses the Rio
Grande Valley, Sandia foothills and
other far-off parts of New Mexico.
A great place to watch the sunset!
However, skiers and riders needing
rental equipment and lessons must
drive to the base area where the
Rental Shop, Snow Sports School
and Day Lodge are located.
Sandia Peak overlooks the city
of Albuquerque to the west and the
ski area is located on the east face
Base Elevation . . . . . . . . . . . .8,678 feet
Peak Elevation . . . . . . . . . . . 10,378 feet
Vertical Drop . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,700 feet
Season . . . . . . December 19 - March 15
Ski Area Hours . . . 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Avg. Annual Snowfall . . . . 125 inches
Snowmaking . . . . . . . . . . . 15% of trails
30 Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35% easiest,
INSET PHOTS 2, 3, 4: Gary Smith; Inset #1: Daniel Morrow
. . . . 55% intermediate, 10% advanced
5 Lifts . . . . . . . . 4 doubles, 1 surface lift,
. . . . . . . . . . . . . Sandia Peak Tramway
Website . . . . . . . . www.sandiapeak.com
Lift Ticket Rates Adult
Age Range 21-61
Full-Day $48
Half-Day * $36
* Half-day ticket hours: 9:00 am - 12:30pm, 12:30pm - 4:00pm
2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide SLOPES31
SANDIA PEA
of the Sandia Mountain range. It
has a vertical drop of 1,700 feet, 30
runs and 200 skiable acres. Sandia
Peak boasts four double chairlifts
with one double suited for begin-
ners and one “Mitey Mite” surface
lift. And many cross-country skiers
and snowshoe enthusiasts either use
the tram or drive up to the adjacent
national forest.
Sandia Peak has a lot going for
it: It’s close to New Mexico’s largest
airport, and has unbeatable condi-
tions. The resort also appeals to the
local freestyle crowd. The Scrapyard
Terrain Park has funboxes, rails and
jumps for beginner to intermediate
skiers and boarders.
The Wintermill Sports Shop at
the base area sells logo merchan-
dise and other essentials, and the
rental shop offers ski and snow-
boarding equipment. Sandia’s Snow
Sports School has Professional Ski
Instructors of America-certified
teachers that conduct full- and half-
day ski and snowboard lessons. The
Double Eagle II Café serves break-
fast, lunch and snacks.
If you’re looking for great views
and perfect powder, close to the
cultural activities of a major city,
consider Sandia Peak. It’s beautiful,
accessible, and full of winter adven-
ture options. 
Teen Child Senior
13-20 6-12 62-71
$38 $35 $35
$30 $28 $28
continued...
 Pajarito

Enchanted Secret
Imagine a ski area where the term “lift-line” is rarely used, the
terrain is plentiful and varied, and the proceeds from your lift
ticket support a local not-for-profit organization.

W ell, such a gem exists in

northern New Mexico,
where the sun shines 300 days a
year and you can often ski sans
jacket. Pajarito Mountain has a base
elevation of 9,200 feet above sea
level, and top elevation of 10,400.
The resort is located on the eastern
slopes of the Jemez Mountains near
Los Alamos.
Only a two-hour drive from
Albuquerque and 45 minutes from
Santa Fe, it has 40 trails, 300 skiable
acres, not including the tree skiing,
and 1,200 feet of vertical drop. It
boasts five chairlifts including three
doubles, one triple and a quad.
Pajarito’s terrain includes miles
of groomed trails, bump runs, glade
skiing and a terrain park. The ski
area will open an all-new terrain
park for the 2008/2009 season.
Pajarito is unique because it’s
owned by the Los Alamos Ski Club
Inc., a not-for-profit organiza-
tion. Local citizens, many of whom
worked at nearby Los Alamos Na-
tional Laboratory, formed it in the
late 1950s. The ski club continues to
help guide the ski area.
The resort is also helping re-
define environmental stewardship
in the local ski industry. Ten percent
of its power comes from renewable
sources of energy. Pajarito recently
launched a “green tag” program
where visitors can opt to pay a fee
to offset carbon emissions and sup-
port alternative energy such as wind
and solar.
The Pajarito Mountain Snow-
sports School has Professional Ski
Instructors of America-certified
teachers who can assist skiers and
snowboarders at any level. Group
classes are available for riders 6 and
older, and privates are offered for
ages 3 years old and up. And there’s
plenty of nearby lodging in Los Ala-
mos, including bed and breakfasts
and hotels and motels. The town
also has plenty of restaurants from
fast food to locally-owned eateries.
With its Rio Grande Valley
views, well-known tree skiing and
bump runs, lack of lift lines and fab-
ulous weather, Pajarito may be New
Mexico’s best-kept skiing secret.
Season . . . Thanksgiving through March
Open . . . . . Weekends & Federal Holidays,
. . Winter Break, closed Christmas Day
Base Elevation . . . . . . . . . . . .9,200 feet
Peak Elevation . . . . . . . . . . . 10,400 feet
6 Lifts . . . . . . . 1 quad, 1 triple, 3 double,
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 surface handle tow.
40 Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20% easy,
. . . . 50% intermediate, 30% advanced
Snowmaking . . . Planned for 2009/2010
Website . . . . . . . . . www.skipajarito.com

Lift Ticket Rates* Adult Teen Child Senior

Age Range 18-64 13-17 7-12 65-74

Full-Day $49 $40 $30 $40

iSTOCKPHOTO.COM
photo credits:

Half-Day $30 $30 $25 $30

* Children under 6 and Seniors 75+ FREE.
32SLOPES Ski New Mexico | www.SkiNewMexico.com
 Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort
Family-Friendly Fun
Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort has honed the art of blending
family-friendly skiing and snowboarding, short lift lines,
a long ski season and affordability.
L ocated in the Sangre de Cristo
Mountains of northern New
Mexico, about 20 miles southeast
of Taos, the resort sits at 8,200 feet
above sea level and the top of the lifts
rise to 9,255 feet above sea level.
Founded in 1952, Sipapu (which
means “Land of Paradise”) is the
oldest ski area in New Mexico. Still
a family-owned resort, the ski area
now boasts 200 acres of skiable
terrain, four chairlifts, and a verti-
cal drop of 1,055 feet. There are also
cross-country skiing, sledding and
snowshoeing trails in the area.
The resort has great northern
slope exposure, and conducts snow-
making on 70 percent of its trails.
This helps extend the winter season
each year and preserve the quality
of snow, according to James Cole-
man, managing partner. He says
Sipapu has managed to have New
Mexico’s longest ski seasons five
years in a row.
Ski Season . . . . . . . . . November-March
Base Elevation . . . . . . . . . . . .8,200 feet
Peak Elevation . . . . . . . . . . . . 9,255 feet
Vertical Drop . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,055 feet
Features . . . . . . . . . . 4 lifts and 41 trails
Average Snowfall . . . . . . . 190 inches
Snowmaking . . . . . . . . . . . 70% of trails
PHOTOS Courtesy of sipapu ski & summer resort
Website . . . . . . . . . www.sipapunm.com
Lift Ticket Rates* Adult
Age Range 21-59
Full-Day $39
Half-Day $29
* FREE: Children under 6; Seniors 70+, 4th graders and 40 year olds.
Check the website for lift ticket specials and most up-to-date information.
2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide SLOPES33
Sue’s Ski School offers group les-
sons for children 7-12, teens 13-20,
and adults. The school offers pri-
vate lessons for children as young
as 4 years old, and instruction in all
kinds of winter sports.
When it comes to value, it’s hard
to beat this New Mexico destina-
tion. With the purchase of a $39 lift
ticket, visitors can get free lodging
in Sipapu or at participating hotels
in Taos. Visitors who drive 100 or
more miles can sleep and ride for
free. And active members of the
military also ski and ride free. Si-
papu offers specials such as “Fourth
Day Free,” “Fifth Day Free,” and one
where everybody in the car rides for
only $50. Check availability with
the resort before your trip.
For the 2008/2009 season, the
resort has extended some of its
runs. It also will continue offering
lodging and lift ticket deals.
The Riverside Cafe, located right
on the Rio Pueblo, is known for its
fresh ingredients and local drafts.
Sipapu’s motto, “Family Friendly,
Family Fun,” says it all. This tran-
quil mountain resort offers relax-
ation and recreation for every mem-
ber of the family, whether beginner
snowplower or expert shredder. 
Teen Child Senior
13-20 7-12 60-69
$34 $29 $27
$25 $22 $22
continued...
 Cross-Country Skiing

Ski Enchantment
A mining town right out of the old west, a railroad village still
resonating from the 1800s, and an ancient volcanic basin-
turned national preserve. What do they have in common? The
answer is easy ... they are three of New Mexico’s finest cross-
country ski destinations, located in some of the most pristine,
magnificent settings in the U.S.A.

Enchanted Forest
Located just three miles east of
Red River, Enchanted Forest Cross
Country Ski Area is New Mexico’s
largest full-service cross-country
ski resort. Here the beginner to
the advanced cross-country skier
can hit the 30 kilometers of trails,
groomed for both classic and free-
style skiing. One side of the trail is
tracked for classic (diagonal stride)
skiing and the other is smoothed
for snow shoeing and freestyle (or
skate) skiing. All trails are groomed
with state-of-the-art groom-
ing machines designed specifi-
The Land of Enchantment delights
cally for cross-country skiing. A
warming hut and two “Sangre
diverse and spectacular offerings.
de Cristo” windbreaks provide
welcome shelter along the trails.
Enchanted Forest ranges from
9,700 feet to 10,040 feet in eleva-
tion. Forty different trails provide
options to explore. The trails’ names
say it all: From Powderpuff (the flat-
test and easiest trail), to the North-
west Passage (the longest and most
difficult loop with fantastic views) to
even a trail named Face Flop Drop
(an accurate description), snow
enthusiasts are bound to fall in love
motto is fulfilled: “At Enchanted
Forest we make it easy to have fun!”
Their Learn to Ski package includes:
rental equipment (boots, skis and
poles), trail pass and lesson.
Enchanted Forest offers 15
kilometers of snowshoeing trails
designed to create a relaxing experi-
ence in this winter wonderland.
To ensure the whole family takes
part in the snow action, Enchanted
Forest also offers kids equipment as
well as “pulks” (sleds) for infants and
five kilometers of dog-friendly trails.
the cross-country skier with her
Operating daily during the sea-
son, opening day is scheduled for No-
vember 18, 2008, providing months
of fun in the snow on their 600-acre
winter play land. For details, visit
www.enchantedforestxc.com.
Chama
Chama always has and continues to
be a popular getaway for XC skiers
who seek the “off the traveled path”
snow experience. Tucked at the base
the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Rail-
road. But as the snowflakes fall and
the mountain passes become cov-
ered with snowfall measured in feet,
Chama becomes a quiet spot where
skiers in search of peaceful settings
and pristine areas discover the
wintertime charms of Chama.
Sargents’ Wildlife Refuge, a 20,000-
acre elk refuge turns into a winter
playground for cross-country ski-
ers and snowshoers alike. While the
area is ungroomed for the most part,
the terrain is gently sloping with a
spectacular mountain backdrop.
And because Sargents’ is off
limits to machinery, no snow-
mobiles are allowed, ensuring a
serene experience.
For the overnight adventurer,
there are several yurt rentals in the
San Juan wilderness area around
Cumbres Pass. The yurts are easily
accessible along well-marked trails
with no avalanche danger. Both
telemark and extended touring
terrain connect the yurts, and even
offer a yurt-to-yurt option. South-
west Nordic Center operates this
winter backcountry yurt system.
Chama sits at 8,000 feet altitude
rising to over 10,000 feet at nearby
Ellen Miller-Goins

with the great white outdoors here.

Enchanted Forest offers ski of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Cumbres Pass. One of the snowiest
lessons, equipment rentals and lots this 1880s railroad town is known areas of New Mexico with an aver-
of friendly advice to ensure their for its narrow-gauge steam train, age of over 100 inches annually,
34SLOPES Ski New Mexico | www.SkiNewMexico.com
 Chama offers consistent snow. This
past season, Chama received over
185 inches of precipitation. A vari-

CROS
ety of lodges, cabins and B&Bs are
available for the overnighter and a
number of restaurants and shops
remain open year-round.

Valles Caldera
National Preserve
Another great wilderness desti-
nation for cross-country skiers is
Valles Caldera National Preserve,
located near Los Alamos. This vast
89,000-acre park was designated a
National Preserve in 2000. Situated
in a collapsed volcanic crater in the
Jemez Mountain Range, it’s a natural
choice for XC skiers and snowshoers
with its beautiful vistas and native
wintering wildlife like elk, coyote
and the bald eagle.
Valles Caldera offers special
activities during the season, such
as Moon Light Skiing, Dark Night
Skiing, and Overnight Skiing, with
a stay at a ranch bunkhouse. For
the not-so-athletic visitor, Valles
Caldera offers a delightful win-
tertime experience—horse-drawn
sleigh rides. When the winter snows
blanket the valley, draft horses are
hitched to a sleigh and whisk the
riders over sparkling, snowy mead-
ows while the driver spins tales
from the area’s past about the “old
Baca Ranch.”
The Land of Enchantment
delights the cross-country skier
with her diverse and spectacular
offerings. Red River, Chama, Valles
Caldera… all pristine mountain set-
tings where the sun shines more
than 310 days annually, and where
the clarity of the azure sky and the
Ellen Miller-Goins

sparkling snow create a vision and

experience unmatched. Visit Valles
Caldera at www.vallescaldera.gov. 
2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide SLOPES35

Business Index
ADvertiser
Log on to www.skinewmexico.com for additional resources,
internet specials, listings and links. To learn more about
advertising with Slopes! Magazine or on our website, please
visit www.slopesmag.com.
New Mexico page 8
New Mexico Dept of Tourism page 10
www.newmexico.org 800-733-6396
We work with local communities to promote their
attractions and events so that visitors can see
the amazing variety New Mexico has to offer.
Whether you’re planning to visit for a day or a
month, NMTD is here to plan your best New
Mexico vacation ever! guide@newmexico.org
Accommodations & Lodging
NM Bed & Breakfast Association page 37
www.nmbba.org 800-661-6649
Member inns located all over the state from
Taos to Ruidoso. Adobe casitas, historic
haciendas, inns, family homes. Stay with us for
a memorable ski vacation! info@nmbba.org
Angel Fire page 16
Angel Fire Resort page 18
www.angelfireresort.com 800-633-7463
Angel Fire is a family-friendly mountain resort
nestled high in the southern Rocky Mountains.
Featuring a 550+ acre ski mountain, 18-hole
PGA Championship golf course, 120-room
hotel, parks, fishing, restaurants, shopping,
real estate development and vacation property
management. Visit our website for lodging and
activity discounts, weather and road conditions
and more. reservations@angelfireresort.com.
Accommodations & Lodging
Discover Angel Fire Central Reservations
www.discoverangelfire.com 800-323-5793
We specialize in helping you with your lodging
needs, whether it’s economy or premium
rental properties. Choose from 230 condos,
120 homes and cabins, 2 motels and the Angel
Fire Resort. No additional fees to you. Visit our
website, email reserve@angelfirenm.us, or call.
Equipment & Rentals
Village Ski Shop
www.villageskishop.com 800-469-9327
We are Angel Fire’s premier skiing equipment
rental store. New safe, reliable, great-looking
skis, snowboards, snowblades, snowshoes and
cross-country equipment. 1/2 block from the
slopes. Free parking with ski base shuttle. Free
insurance and equipment exchange. Personal,
individual fittings. Reservations: Call, fax, or
e-mail rentskis@newmex.com.
36SLOPES Ski New Mexico | www.skinewmexico.com
Sponsors and Advertisers
Pajarito page 32
Red River page 24
Red River page 2
www.redriver.org 877-754-1708
“Ski Town of the Southwest” — Whether
you’re searching for skiing, snowboarding,
snowmobiling, or snowshoeing this winter,
your entire family will love the “Ski Town of the
Southwest.” Two of the main chair lifts leave
from the center of town, so there’s no shuttle
necessary. Just park & ski, ride and play! After
a long day on the mountain, enjoy shopping,
restaurants to please every palate, live music,
and plenty of two-steppin’. For a complete list
of special events, including our 50th Anniversary
Celebration, check out www.redriverskiarea.com
or email visitorcenter@redriver.org.
Sandia Peak page 31
Ski Santa Fe page 28
Ski Santa Fe back cover
www.skisantafe.com 505-982-4429
1,725ft vertical rise, 225” annual avg. snowfall,
69 trails and 7 lifts. Ski Santa Fe offers skiing
and snow boarding for all ability levels. The
“Bone Yard” freestyle terrain park features
jumps, hits, rails, and other features for skiers
& boarders. La Casa Mall features a full service
ski & snowboard rental shop, Wintermill Sports
Shop, La Casa Café and the certified snow
sports school. info@skisantafe.com
Santa Fe Convention & Visitors page 39
www.santafe.org 800-777-2489
You’ll find some of the best places to ski in the
Southwest right here in the Santa Fe area. The
season typically lasts from late fall through early
spring, bringing up to 300 inches of snow a year
to some ski resorts and plenty of races, winter
festivals and other events. With an average
of 300 sunny days a year and plenty of snow
during the winter season, Santa Fe is a skier’s
paradise. pearchuleta@ci.santa-fe.nm.us
Accommodations & Lodging
El Rey Inn page 30
www.elreyinnsantafe.com 505-982-1931
Discover El Rey Inn: Historic Santa Fe at its Best!
1862 Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe, NM 87505, Toll Free
800-521-1349. hollyelreyinn@mcleodusa.net
Garrett’s Desert Inn page 30
www.garrettsdesertinn.com 505-982-1851
Downtown Santa Fe’s Most Affordable Hotel
according to the New York Times! Two blocks
from the Historic Plaza. High Speed Internet,
Fitness Center, Guest Laundry, Pet Friendly.
rruiz@garrettsdesertinn.com
Hotel Santa Fe page 11
www.hotelsantafe.com 800-825-9876
Located in Historic Downtown Santa Fe, we are
Santa Fe’s only Native American-owned hotel.
A unique cultural experience, from our luxurious
rooms and suites to the lilting notes of a Native
flute, and the culinary brilliance of our Amaya
Restaurant. reservations@hotelsantafe.com
Hilton Santa Fe Golf Resort & Spa
at Buffalo Thunder page 7
www.buffalothunderresort.com 505-455-5555
Our hotel features luxurious rooms, exciting
gaming, a relaxing spa, and plenty of golf,
all enhanced by our traditional elements of
authentic pueblo architecture and décor.
Inn of the Governors page 37
www.innofthegovernors.com 800-234-4534
World-class service in a beautiful location!
reservations@innofthegovernors.com
La Fonda Santa Fe page 27
www.lafondasantafe.com 800-523-5002
Perfect for those who love all there is to do and
see in Santa Fe. Nearby museums, galleries,
shops and music venues. Free WiFi, outdoor
hot tub, heated pool, spa services. Ski Season
Specials. reservations@lafondasantafe.com.
La Posada de Santa Fe page 27
www.laposadadesantafe.com 866-331-7625
Nestled on six beautifully landscaped acres in
the heart of Santa Fe, the AAA Four Diamond
Award-winning La Posada de Santa Fe Resort &
Spa is an intimate retreat that evokes a unique
sense of Southwestern magic and charm.
reservations@lpdsf.com.
Sipapu page 33
Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort page 3
www.SipapuNM.com 800-587-2240
THE BEST DEALS IN THE ROCKIES ARE HERE!
Sipapu offers FREE slope-side lodging, FREE
lift tickets, FREE lesson packages and New
Mexico’s longest ski season. 40 trails, 4 lifts
and 2 terrain parks. 20 miles SE of Taos.
Ski Apache page 12
Village of Ruidoso page 14
www.ruidosonow.com 877-784-3676
Ruidoso is The Friendly Village of New Mexico
nestled in the Sacramento Mountains of South-
eastern New Mexico. Whether you enjoy skiing,
casino gaming, boutique shopping, golfing,
dining, live music or nightlife, Ruidoso has
something for everyone. We invite you to visit all
that makes Ruidoso the perfect winter getaway.
www.ruidosowebcam.com, info@ruidosonow.com
Accommodations & Lodging
The Lodge at Sierra Blanca page 15
www.thelodgeatsierrablanca.com 866-211-7727
The Lodge at Sierra Blanca is Ruidoso’s finest hotel.
Surrounded by the Links at Sierra Blanca and
conveniently located next to the Ruidoso Convention
Center, you’ll enjoy luxurious accommodations in
a warm and cozy, family friendly setting.
info@thelodgeatsierrablanca.com

Taos Ski Valley page 20

Taos Ski Valley page 5

www.skitaos.org 866-250-7619
Taos Ski Valley welcomes snowboarders! Open-
ing Day is November 27, 2008 and discounted
tickets available thru December 19th! Average
Snow Fall: 305” Number of Trails: 110 Elevation:
12,481’ World Class Ski & Ride School and Kid’s
Center! For vacation package info visit SkiTaos.
org or call 866-250-7619. tsv@skitaos.org
Accommodations & Lodging
Taos Lodging & Ski Packages page 22
www.taospillowpackages.com 800-517-9816
Lodging + lift tickets + ski lessons + meals +
expert advice = the Best Taos Vacation Possible!
Go online to find the perfect ski vacation
package for your time and budget requirements.
Sign up for Taos Pillow & Powder Packages
Sweepstakes for a chance to win a free Taos ski
vacation for two. info@taosskivalley.com
Hotel Don Fernando de Taos page 30
www.donfernandodetaos.com 575-758-4444
Full service hotel on six beautifully landscaped
acres just 1 mile from Historic Taos Plaza! Indoor
pool and hot tub, restaurant, cocktail lounge, WiFi
Internet, large guest rooms, suites with fireplaces.
eshelton@donfernandodetaos.com.
Cross Country Ski Areas
Chama page 34

Village of Chama page 37

www.visitchama.com 866-232-5392
Chama offers superb cross country skiing with
varying terrain, and so much more! Sargents’
Wildlife Refuge provides 20,000 acres of
wilderness. Thousands of additional acres
of trails and paths in the Cumbres area near
Chama. We’re also an excellent snowmobiling
destination. info@chamavalley.com
The perfect ski retreat, steps from the Plaza, minutes from the slopes.
Richly appointed rooms, complimentary “Mountain Sunrise” breakfast,
Enchanted Forest page 34
casual dining, 11:30 a.m.–midnite, at Del Charro, “Santa Fe’s watering hole.”
Valles Grande page 34

ADVertising in SLOPEs!
Slopes! Magazine reaches 80,000 prospective
winter-time vacationers to New Mexico prior to
and during peak ski seasons.
To learn more about becoming a member
or sponsor of Ski New Mexico, turn the page or

INN
of 101 w. alameda
visit www.skinewmexico.com. To learn more the santa fe, nm 87501 reservations
governors 505-982-4333
about advertising in Slopes! Magazine please
Your Home in the Heart of Santa Fe fax: 505-989-9149 1-800-693-3345
visit www.slopesmag.com.

2008-2009 Winter Adventure Guide SLOPES37


In Memoriam
Andrew “Drew” D. Judycki
Nov. 30, 1947-May 26, 2008
T his season at Red River Ski
Area will be an especially
bittersweet one as long-time
owner, Andrew “Drew” Judycki
passed away in May of 2008.
Drew, 60, a 35-year resident
of Red River, let his passion for
skiing guide him. During his first
year of college, he got a job as ski
patrol at Sipapu, then became a ski
instructor at Angel Fire; he then
moved on to Red River, which be-
gan his 30-year tenure at the resort.
George Blanchard, who origi-
nally partnered with Drew to
buy Red River, says Drew dearly
loved the area. “It was the dear-
est thing in the world to him. He
was the hardest-working man I’d
ever seen in all my experience in
business. He worked 60 to 90
hours a week, seven days a week.
He was out plowing the parking
lot at 7 a.m., checking the snow-
making at midnight. He was just
dedicated to that ski area and
knew every square inch.”
At the time of his death,
Drew was the sole owner, presi-
dent and general manager of
Red River Ski Area.
38SLOPES Ski New Mexico | www.skinewmexico.com
Ski New Mexico
Become a Member
Ski New Mexico is open to all. Among the ranks of our not-for-
profit membership organization are ski-oriented businesses,
individual skiers and snowboarders, and local and national
tourism groups. If snow sports are important to you or your
business, consider joining Ski New Mexico. Learn more and
sign up at at www.skinewmexico.com.
Membership Benefits
Skiing. Everywhere. Members receive a card that entitles them to two
complementary lift tickets to each of our member ski areas:
n Angel Fire n Santa Fe n Chama
n Pajarito
n Red River
n Sipapu
n Ski Apache
n Enchanted Forest
n Valles Grande
n Sandia n Taos
Networking: Our unique organization includes “movers and shakers”
of the tourism industry. Membership allows you access to the Ski New
Mexico brain trust.
Internet business leads: Last season, 277,000 people logged onto
Ski New Mexico’s website looking for where to stay, eat, shop and party.
Membership allows you to post your information and access the potential
$290 million economic impact of those interested tourists.
Your membership supports two ambitious programs:
Marketing & PR Legislative & Government
n National branding of n Representation at state,
New Mexico ski products local and federal regulatory
and industry. bodies and other government
n National, regional and affairs and activities.
local advertising and n Representation at local,
promotional programs. state and federal government
n Press and media relations inquiries and meetings.
programs including n Representation within
familiarization tours, industry and outside the ski industry.
spokesman and press mailings.
n Advertising opportunities
and optional Directory Listing in Ready to Join?
Slopes! magazine and
Visit our website at
the website.
www.skinewmexico.com,
n Co-op marketing and
or call Executive Director
promotional opportunities with
Ski New Mexico and partners. George Brooks at
n Participation in consumer trade
505-848-2422.
shows.
n Referrals and networking
opportunities.
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exhilaration
indoors and out

Winter is the perfect time to experience Santa Fe. Besides our legendary ski resort, an eclectic array of
spas and resorts, galleries and restaurants await your discovery. Whether it’s a day on the slopes or a
night on the town, lasting winter memories begin in Santa Fe.

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