Think Albuquerque only offers summer fun? Think again! We’ve put together a list of fun ways you can take to Albuquerque’s many nearby mountains and enjoy the snow and the high desert winter weather we all love.

Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding

Skiing Sandia Peak Ski Area

Albuquerque is surrounded by some of New Mexico’s best ski resorts. Take a quick drive to Sandia Peak or Ski Santa Fe and hit the slopes!

Cross Country Skiing

Snowy Mountains

Cross country skiing more your style? Head to the mountains surrounding Albuquerque, and find cross country skiing trails in the Sandia and Manzano Mountains. As you drive up the Sandia Mountain pass (Scenic Byway 536), you’ll find some great ungroomed trails at the 10K and Ellis Trailheads, as well as from the Sandia Crest parking lot and Upper Tramway terminal at Sandia Peak.

At the 160-acre Manzano Mountain State Park in Mountainair, you’ll find about five miles of trails that, with good snow conditions, are perfect for beginners. Take the quick drive Southeast of Albuquerque to find some great views and some fun trails.

Sledding and Tubing

Snow Tubing Stock

Head to the east side of the Sandia Mountains to find perfect slopes for sledding and tubing. When enough snow falls, the Capulin Snow Play Area in the Cibola National Forest in the Sandia Mountains is a local favorite spot to take the family and have some fun in the snow! Check here for updates on opening and for some important safety tips.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoes Stock

The Sandia Mountains and Cibola National Forest offer many opportunities for trekking your way through the winter months on snowshoes. The 10K and Ellis trails, found off of Scenic Byway 536 are perfect for strapping on your snowshoes while offering some fantastic views of the mountains as well as the city below. Rent a pair of snowshoes, or go on a guided snowshoe tour with Routes Bicycle Tours and Rentals or MST Adventures.

Take a Scenic Drive to the Top of the Sandia Mountains

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Take the scenic drive up the Crest road on the east side of the Sandia Mountains. At the top, you'll take in the unbeatable view of the city below, the snowcapped mountain peaks, and the crisp, fresh air. Dress warm and drive carefully! The top of the mountain sits at an impressive 10,300 feet. 

Ride the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway

Winter New Tram Car Sandia Aerial Tramway

Take a ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway and soar above deep canyons and breathtaking terrain of the Sandia Mountains. Catch the Tram on a snowy day and take in those incredible views with a beautiful white powder dusting.  

Relax at the Spa

Ten Thousand Waves Winter Spa

After a long day of playing in the snow, or if snow is just not your thing, why not take some time for yourself and warm up in the spa? Here are some of the Albuquerque area’s favorite spas and hot springs.

Warm up with some Hot Chile!

Barelas Coffee House Food

After a day of snow play in New Mexico, there is no better way to warm up than with some hot red or green chile. Find endless dining options to cap off your chilly day of fun here.

Now get out and play in that powder!