How to Go Skiing in Ski Apache, New Mexico

Ski Apache, New Mexico is a much-loved ski destination geared toward beginner and intermediate ski and snowboarders. Run by the Mescalero Apache Tribe, the Ski Area is located in Ruidoso, New Mexico, three hours south of Albuquerque, atop the 12,000-foot Siera Blanca Peak. Close proximity to Texas makes it the most popular destination for skiers from that state, and with its mixed and scenic terrain, Ski Apache is a wonderful place to book a ski trip.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Phone
• Computer with Internet access

Choose Lodging and Transportation

1. Check the 'Ruidoso Area Information' page of the Ski Apache Web site (see Resources below) for a list of recommended nearby lodging. You can't book online, but you can link to the properties' individual sites. Call the Ruidoso Visitors Center at 888-268-8811 if you need booking assistance.
2. Stay in the charming mountain town of Ruidoso and experience hospitality in one of the many accommodations it has to offer. From romantic bed and breakfasts to budget-and-family-friendly hotels and lodge cabins to high-end resorts, the town of Ruidoso is where Ski Apache skiers relax after an exhilarating day on the slopes.
3. Fly into the nearest international airport to Ski Apache in El Paso, Texas, or make an easy road trip 180 miles south from Albuquerque into south central New Mexico. Ski Apache is located 18 miles northwest of the town of Ruidoso.

Get Familiar With Ski Apache

4. Take your first ski trip to Ski Apache, and benefit from all the mountain has to offer beginners. The slopes are wide and there is a plentiful variety of both group and private lessons in skiing and snowboarding Ski Apache has an experienced staff of over 100 instructors, and packages for beginners that include a free lift ticket.
5. Experience Ski Apache's diverse and exciting terrain, including bump runs, cruisers, a top-notch terrain park and a giant mountain-top bowl. Stunning views down the mountain of the White Sand National Monument thrill skiers, and the Ski Area's 55 trails feature a 1901-foot vertical drop that's steep enough for even the experts to take note.

Prepare for your Trip to Ski Apache

6. Find snow reports, pricing, reservations, trip planning, lodging and other important information at Ski Apache's official Web site (see Resources below).
7. Take some time to gather the proper equipment for your trip to Ski Apache, and if you need to rent gear, the Ski Area offers a well-equipped Rental Shop for your convenience.

Tips & Warnings

• Book reservations for lessons before you leave to avoid headaches at the mountain.
• Most of the employees of Ski Apache are members of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, which has certain customs that may be unfamiliar; learn more by consulting the Ski Area's Web site.
• No official online booking Web site is available for accommodations near Ski Apache.
• For more information on Ski Apache, call their toll-free number at 505-464-3600
• The road up to the top of the mountain is a 12-mile, 2-lane access road, and the driving is often challenging. You may want to book reservations on the local shuttle service called the Ski Apache Express.

Who Can Help: