New Mexico’s ski industry is preparing for a promising winter season, emphasizing early snowmaking, recent resort upgrades, and a forecasted strong El Niño that could bring more natural snowfall after a warm, dry previous year.
Snowmaking and grooming efforts
Christy Germscheid, executive director of Ski New Mexico, said last season’s limited snowfall and warm temperatures made operations difficult for resorts and their employees. Snowmaking and grooming crews worked around the clock to keep slopes open whenever conditions allowed.
“The snowmaking teams were unbelievable, and they maximized every single night and day with cold temperatures that they could,” Germscheid said.
El Niño optimism
Forecasts of a strong El Niño have generated optimism among resort operators. Germscheid hopes increased natural snow will allow resorts to open more terrain, including advanced runs that have been hard to access in recent years.
While snowmaking can provide a solid skiing surface, Germscheid noted that “nothing replaces Mother Nature in terms of being able to blanket the mountain all at once.”
Investments and new amenities
Resorts are continuing to invest in infrastructure. Angel Fire Resort installed a six‑person high‑speed chairlift, while Red River and Sandia Peak added magic‑carpet lifts for beginners. Pajarito Mountain is adding a new water pipeline and a 10‑million‑gallon reservoir to improve snowmaking consistency.
Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort plans to open on Nov. 20, with other resorts expected to follow around Thanksgiving. Sipapu is also seeking Forest Service approval for a major expansion, though that project will not be ready for the upcoming season.
Family‑friendly deals
New Mexico ski areas are promoting affordability and convenience. Many resorts offer free skiing for children 12 and under, and a $49 package that includes a lift ticket, equipment rental and a lesson. Several ski areas have kept season‑pass prices steady.
Germscheid said the state offers a Southern Rockies ski experience that can compete with neighboring states while showcasing New Mexico’s distinctive culture.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
