Snowsports & Other Activities in New Mexico's Northern Mountains

Northern New Mexico's landscape transitions from high desert to mountainous terrain with high elevations where the southern tip of the Rockies enters the state. Learn more about this unique terrain through hands-on exploration, whether on skis, horseback, two-wheels, or foot, and have a miraculous adventure amongst the mountains.

Meet Marion Balsamo

Growing up in a small town in Northern New Mexico, Marion can't remember a time when she hasn't been on two skis once snow hits the slopes. Marion has park skiing since she was 7, alongside her entire family, and started competing in competitions in New Mexico and Colorado at age 11. Since then, Marion has competed in the X-games Street Style competition, taking home a bronze medal, and continues to progress her skills while attending medical school.

A person wearing a cowboy hat stands beside a dark brown horse. The sky is clear with a few clouds, and there is a wooden fence and tree in the background.


 

Visit Sipapu Ski Resort

Sipapu Ski Resort has been operating since 1972 and has created a name for itself as an extremely affordable and family-friendly ski resort. Just 2.5 hours from Albuquerque, Sipapu is a perfect Rocky Mountain getaway on your trip to the Land of Enchantment, or book a longer stay and experience all this quaint resort has to offer.

A skier wearing colorful jacket and pants jumps on skis down a snowy slope surrounded by pine trees and mountains.


 

Outdoor Adventure in the Enchanted Circle

New Mexico's north-central region is a mountainous high-desert landscape that lends itself to a myriad of outdoor activities including, but not limited to, hiking, biking, skiing, rafting, and swimming. Head out from the big cities and experience the calming nature that the Enchanted Circle has to offer.

A line of people riding on horseback in a heavily wooded area with some barren trees and some with leaves.


 

Drive the High Road to Taos

While you're in northern New Mexico, driving the High Road to Taos is an amazing way to explore the alpine landscape in addition to a multitude of cultural and historic landmarks. Winding its way through the Sangre de Cristo mountains, you'll see magnificent views, historic villages, and architectural marvels.

A scenic road leading towards snow-capped mountains, with a vehicle and motorcycle traveling along it. Forested hills and open fields line the road under a partly cloudy sky.


 

More Skiing in Northern New Mexico

New Mexico is full of opportunities for downhill thrills during the winter months. Once you've explored all Sipapu has to offer, there are seven more ski areas across the state with a variety of terrain and amenities for you to experience. From the cragged, steep trails at Taos to the wide groomers at Ski Santa Fe, every ski area has unique features.

A person stands on the summit of a snowy mountain overlooking the landscape with a red backpack and skis slung over their shoulder


 

New Mexico's Mountains Year-Round

New Mexico's mountains provide a landscape for outdoor adventure across every season. Head to higher elevation for enchanting hikes, exhilarating mountain biking trails, alpine lakes, and secluded, mountainside drives!

Aerial view of a serene lake with a small town nestled at the base of expansive mountains under a partly cloudy sky.