Winter Sports
General forest areas throughout the Santa Fe National Forest, including wilderness areas, are open to Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. Generally, the higher the elevation, the better the snow. Backcountry travelers should always be alert for the possibility of avalanche activity, and should understand the inherent dangers of remote winter travel.
There are no areas specifically managed or recommended for sledding, tubing, or snowmobiling on the Santa Fe National Forest.
Snowmobile use is not authorized in Wilderness areas.
Skiing/Snowboarding
Ski Santa Fe is located at the top of the Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway, (NM State Route 475 or Hyde Park Road), in the Sangre de Cristo Mountain range, 16 miles from the historic Santa Fe Plaza in downtown Santa Fe. The area operates on 660 acres of National Forest land, under a Special Use Permit. There are seven lifts serving 73 runs, with a mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced runs. Equipment rentals and lessons are available. The area also sponsors the largest Adaptive Ski Program in the state and one of the finest in the country. The base area elevation is 10,350’ and the summit 12,075’, for a total vertical gain of 1,725’.
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing
Cross-country ski and snowshoe equipment is available for rent from a variety of shops in Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Snowshoes are also available for rent at the Los Alamos YMCA and the Valles Caldera National Monument Visitors Center.
Jemez and Cuba Trails: These trails are not groomed. They are maintained by volunteers. Trail conditions may vary, and visitors should be prepared for inclement weather and cross-country travel.
Jemez Ranger District: Forest Service Roads 376, 289 and 10 are typically closed to motorized vehicles from December 31 to April 15 and are options for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during that time period. Call the Jemez Ranger District at 575-829-3535 for current road closure information. Los Griegos Trails (Map) - Located about 4.6 miles west of the entrance to the Valle Caldera National Preserve.
Search for Winter Sports Opportunities
Big Tesuque Campground
Black Canyon Campground
Santa Fe Alpine Ski Area