Just because it’s winter, there’s no need to hibernate! There are plenty of things to do in New Mexico during the winter, from snow sports to soaking in hot springs and everything in between. Beat the winter blues by visiting some of these unforgettable places! Which one will you choose for your next New Mexico winter vacation? Let us know in the comments!
1. Sandia Peak via the Sandia Peak Tramway
The trip is actually more memorable when the mountain is carpeted in snow, and the panoramic views of Albuquerque are just as amazing. Come check out some of the downright best views in New Mexico with a wintery twist this season.
2. One of New Mexico’s ski resorts in the northern part of the state
Taos Ski Valley added the Kachina Peak Chairlift, which carries you 31 feet above the mountain to a max elevation of 12,450 feet. And there is now a bus service running to Ski Santa Fe! This is seriously one of the best winter vacations in New Mexico we can think of - for locals and visitors alike.
3. Or, go further south.
Ski Apache, near Ruidoso, has 55 trails and receives an average of 180 inches of snow per year. Oh, and fun fact: Ski Apache is home to the longest zipline in New Mexico.
4. Visit an enchanting frozen waterfall.
There’s nothing like the sight of a waterfall that has frozen, like Sitting Bull Falls (pictured) in the Guadalupe Mountains near Carlsbad. Come out and find yourself utterly transfixed by the many frozen waterfalls in New Mexico.
5. Lake Maloya or Lake Alice
Yes, you can go ice fishing in New Mexico! Both of these lakes in New Mexico are in Sugarite Canyon State Park, near Raton. Just remember to check the park’s website to ensure that the ice is still thick enough before you head out.
6. Angel Fire. Yes, the whole town.
You can do most winter sports in Angel Fire, but for those who want to enjoy the season at a slower pace, a romantic sleigh ride is the way to go. You'll quickly see why Angel Fire is one of the best winter towns in New Mexico.
6. Book a romantic stay at a stunningly wonderful cabin.
Speaking of romance, holing up in a cabin by a roaring fire is a great way to embrace the season. Rental cabins are abundant in Ruidoso, Cloudcroft, Red River, and Angel Fire. Some of these amazing cabin rentals in New Mexico even come complete with a hot tub. Cozy!
7. Take a dip or soak for a while in some relaxing, refreshing hot springs.
Discover natural hot springs in the wilderness, like those spread throughout Gila National Forest, or warm up at a resort such as Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs, located in the town of Ojo Caliente.
8. Visit an artisanal chocolate store.
Stores like Kakawa Chocolate House in Santa Fe offer truly addictive drinking chocolate to keep you toasty this winter. It's the perfect addition to one of those lovely cabin rentals we alluded to above!
There are so many awesome places in New Mexico to visit during winter. What’s your favorite? Do you have any ideas now for your next New Mexico winter vacation? Tell us your thoughts and plans in the comments!
For more of the Land of Enchantment, you might be interested in awesome things to do in New Mexico during the winter. If you're a lover of nature, you might enjoy the ten most incredible natural wonders in New Mexico.
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