New Mexico Ski Season 2025/2026 Opening Dates and Travel Tips
When the last of the aspen leaves have fallen, and there’s a new chill in the air, you know what that means in northern New Mexico—it’s time to pull out your gear, start watching ski movies, and get your legs ready for winter.
Here’s a look at ski area opening days, travel tips, and resort updates across Red River, Taos, and Angel Fire for the 2025–2026 season.
Red River Ski & Snowboard Area
Red River kicks off the season early, opening the day before Thanksgiving—November 26, 2025. The town celebrates with its signature small-town charm and a few unforgettable traditions:
- The Frozen Turkey Race: Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. Participants race down the slope while riding a frozen turkey—one of those quirky local events you have to see to believe.
- Saturday Torchlight Parades: A classic Red River Thanksgiving tradition that lights up the mountain and sets the tone for a festive start to the ski season.
Red River’s early opening and family-friendly atmosphere make it a favorite for locals and visitors who want to start their winter early.
Taos Ski Valley
Taos Ski Valley opens on Thanksgiving Day—a perfect way to spend the holiday for those who prefer carving turns over carving turkey.
If you’re planning a ski getaway, The Blake Hotel is offering up to 25% off early-season stays between November 26 and December 24, 2025. It’s the perfect excuse for a mountain escape—and don’t forget to book a spa treatment after your first day on the slopes.
Angel Fire Resort
Angel Fire Resort opens December 11 for members and December 12 for the public, and this year brings some major changes. There’s a wave of economic development happening at the ski area, including two new chairlifts and base area improvements designed to elevate the entire guest experience.
This season marks Phase One of those upgrades, with the debut of Rakes Rider, a new quad chairlift serving some of the most beloved terrain on the mountain’s back side. You’ll also notice extensive tree thinning on both the front and back sides, opening up fresh new glades and tree runs for advanced skiers.
Getting Here: Flights to Northern New Mexico
Traveling to the slopes has never been easier.
- Contour Airlines offers nonstop flights from Denver to Taos, with seamless booking through United, American, and Alaska Airlines—all on one itinerary.
- JSX provides private-terminal, hassle-free flights to Taos from Dallas, Austin, Carlsbad, and Burbank, combining comfort and convenience.
- Advanced Air connects Angel Fire and Albuquerque, giving visitors and homeowners alike a simple way to reach the resort area without the drive.
FEATURED events
Red River Ski Area Frozen Turkey Race
Nov 27 (12pm-1pm) · Main Chalet
Participants race down the slope while riding a frozen turkey—one of those quirky local events you have to see to believe.
Thanksgiving @ Elements
Nov 27 · Seating at 11AM and 3PM
Relax this Thanksgiving with your family and let Elements Fine Dining at the Angel Fire Resort Country Club do the cooking for you!
Thanksjibbing Rail Jam
Nov 29 (12pm) · Main Chalet
Kick off the season with a jam session competition at the annual Thanksjibbing Rail Jam at the Red River Ski Area. Register in the Main Chalet until 11:00am.
SEASON & OPEN ACTIVITIES
Red River Ski Area Torchlight Parades + Fireworks
Nov 29 • Every Saturday during ski season
The Torchlight Parade & Fireworks on The Face is a deep rooted tradition that you and your family won’t want to miss!
Tubing Hill @ Angel Fire Resort
Open Dec 12 • Conditions permitting
The Angel Fire Tubing Hill is a 3-lane tubing hill perfect for family fun and friendly rivalry on the mountain.
Nordic Skiing and Snowshoeing @ Angel Fire
Open dec 12 • Conditions Permitting
The Angel Fire Resort Nordic Center offers over 12 km of groomed, classic, and skate cross-country ski trails.
Skiing in New Mexico offers breathtaking Rocky Mountain views, uncrowded slopes, and family-friendly atmospheres perfect for winter adventure.
November is a great time to gear up — whether you’re tuning your skis, booking your Thanksgiving getaway, or just watching the weather forecast for that first big storm in the Southern Rockies! We’ll be right here doing the same — see you out there.
