Taking a winter vacation in Red River has been a choice for many skiers and outdoor enthusiasts for many years. This region in New Mexico, is referred to as The Enchanted Circle, due to the scenic drive that circles Wheeler Peak. It has been a popular vacation destination in the United States for decades. Places like Taos, Red River, and Angel Fire make this area a favorite vacation destination in the winter months, as well as the rest of the seasons.
The Red River Ski Area
Red River is referred to as the Ski Town of the Southwest. The main winter activity in Red River involves the Red River Ski Area where skiers and snowboarders can enjoy the many trails the mountain offers. The Ski Area in Red River has been enjoyed by snow bunnies since it was established in 1959.
The town’s base elevation is 8,750 feet (2,667 m) with the highest elevation of the mountain at 10,354 feet (3,155 m). The mountain offers six chair lifts and one surface tow. Scattered among 247 acres, there are 58 ski runs that are almost equally divided for beginner, intermediate, and expert skiers and snowboarders.
The area itself gets an average annual snowfall of 214 inches (543 cm) and about 85% of the powder is man made.
The 2010-2011 daily passes are $63. Please check the ski rates on the website, for they will change year to year and vary by packages. They do offer reduced rates for children, teens, and seniors. This is a great way to save money on your family ski vacation.
Red River also provides group and private lessons. Lessons are available for beginners or experts that may need a refresher. There are also lessons for snowboarders, who are welcome on the Red River slopes. For those who do not have equipment, ski and snowboarding equipment are available to rent for reasonable rates.
Other Winter Activities
While the mountain is the main attraction to the town, there are also so other winter activities in the area. Located only five minutes away is the Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Area for those more enticed by flatter hills or to discover the scenic backcountry. Here they also offer season passes, lessons, and equipment rentals.
For people interested in seeing the backcountry in a more fast-paced speed, snowmobiles are available for riders from a couple different local outfitters, like Red River Sled Shed. The tour operators will provide all the necessary gear to enjoy riding through the open wilderness.
The visitor center is your first stop into town to find out more information on lodging, dining, activities, and shopping.
Lodging in Red River
There is a variety of choices for lodging in Red River. Depending on your tastes and budget, lodging choices include cabins, the ski lodge, motels and inns, or private condominiums. There are also many lodging packages, as well as ski packages available through Red River Central Reservations.
Dining and Nightlife in Red River
Red River has quite a few restaurants to choose from including everything from fast food, New Mexican cuisine and casual steakhouses. There is also dining at the resort, including the Lift House Bar and Grill.
After a day on the slopes, you can kick back and relax at the lodge, or visit one of the local taverns in the area. For the younger crowd, there is a game room located right in the center of the town.
Shopping and Spa Services
Besides spending time outdoors, you may want to relax and spend a day shopping or getting a massage. For shopping, visitors can check out the Main Street Mercantile or Frye’s Old Town.
After being in the winter weather and working out your muscles, a facial or massage can be appealing. There are a few places to get pampered with spa services in town including Cathleen’s Mountain Day Spa or Pura Vida Massage.
One of the appealing things about Red River is that most activities, restaurants, and shopping are located within walking distance of the lodging areas, and shuttles are provided for transportation to and from the slopes.
Julie McElroy - Freelance travel writer with published articles about places all over the world, including Italy, Colorado, Japan, Germany, and Spain.
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