When I think of New Mexico I imagine warm sunsets, Native American Treasures, exciting festivals, and cactus. The last thing I picture is snow. Yet there are moments when you to stand at the summit of Ski Santa Fe, at over 12,000 feet, and see nothing but a white landscape within the 8,000 square mile view. From the Truchas Peaks in the north to the Sandia Mountains flanking Albuquerque in the south out to Mount Taylor near the Arizona border in the west, it's nothing but snow as far as the eye can see. What does this mean for travelers? It's time to Ski Santa Fe, New Mexico!

Winter in Santa Fe, New Mexico is a thrilling time. Head out and experience the breath-taking rush of skiing Santa Fe's smooth cruisers to the steep bowls and perfectly spaced trees. The mountain of Ski Santa Fe is evenly split between blue and black runs so there's plenty of comfortable trails for intermediates while the steep fall-line runs, glades, and moguls are ideal for experts. Heavy and frequent December and January snowfalls have provided outstanding conditions area-wide. Ski Santa Fe also offers a highly-regarded children's program and ski school, indoor and outdoor dining at the base and mid-mountain, and over 660 acres of Rocky Mountain terrain covered with more than 4 feet of dry, New Mexico snow.

The newest lift, the Millennium Lift, serves a new, higher summit (12,075 feet) accessing 2 new intermediate and 4 new advanced trails. The addition of the quad (four place) lift adds an extra dimension to the area with faster access to the northern runs and a greater variety of ways to get around the mountain. For non-skiers and boarders, or at day's end when the lifts close, all the legendary amenities, culture, and comforts of charming Santa Fe are at the end of a short, scenic drive back into town.

Winter is Santa Fe's slowest time of year so while museums, shops, restaurants, and attractions are open, the price of lodging is typically less, and town is at its most leisurely. This slower pace allows for leisurely strolls through this historic town, and fewer crowds at local events held throughout the season. Among the cozy and beautiful options that offers great ski packages and lodging in Santa Fe are Eldorado Hotel & Spa, La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa, and Hotel St. Francis. Which makes any Santa Fe winter getaway a real value for skiers and snowboarders looking to play in the snow and spend a little time in one of America's great small cities. In addition to the great skiing and snowboarding, a visit to Santa Fe in the Winter makes you feel like you've discovered your own personal piece of paradise!