Ski Apache, Alto

Sierra Blanca Peak, home to Ski Apache, rises more than 12,000 feet above sea level in south central New Mexico, providing stunning views of the desert lands more than 7,000 feet below, including White Sands National Monument. The resort is owned by the Mescalero Apache Tribe, as seen in the resort's staff and some decorative elements. The area also boasts the state's only (and ancient) gondola. It is 18 miles northwest of the town of Ruidoso and is easily accessed by car from Albuquerque (3 hours) or El Paso (2.5 hours). It has a nice mix of wide beginner slopes, tough bump runs, a huge bowl and nice cruising runs, and is very popular with skiers from west Texas. There's a casino, too.ActivitiesSnowboarding: All 55 trails are open to snowboarders, including Apache Bowl, where "the fingers" in good snow years turn into a series of natural halfpipes. "Boneyard" terrain park. Snowboard shop offers rentals as well as repairs and service.Cross Country Profile: None available on-site, but across the canyon from the ski area a road leads to the top of Buck Mountain where there is a spectacular trip about 2.5 miles long.LodgingNo slope-side lodging; however there is a tremendous variety of accommodations 12-18 miles away in the Ruidoso area down the sometimes gnarly access road. Skiers get lower rates than summer visitors.Winter RecreationIn Ruidoso you will find the Casino Apache on the Mescalero Reservation, and slots at the Ruidoso Downs, art galleries, theaters for the performing arts, museums, golf (in spring), and horseback riding. Scenic attractions include Carlsbad Caverns National Park, The Billy the Kid Scenic Loop, and White Sands National Monument.