When most people think of New Mexico, they picture hot desert summers. However, many parts of the state are blanketed in snow for nearly half the year, offering a variety of winter activities beyond downhill skiing and snowboarding. While skiing remains popular with eight ski areas and thousands of acres of terrain, there are plenty of alternative ways to enjoy New Mexico winter activities in the high desert.

New Mexico Winter Activities (Other than Skiing)
Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing in New Mexico

One of the most peaceful ways to enjoy New Mexico’s winter landscape is by hiking. While many higher elevation trails may be snow-covered and challenging without additional gear, trails at lower elevations can remain accessible.
Rio Grande Gorge West Rim Trail: This relatively flat trail offers stunning views of snowy peaks and the deep Rio Grande Gorge.
Snowshoeing Adventures: If you’re eager to tackle snow-covered trails, snowshoeing is a great option.
Popular destinations include:
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- Northside of Taos Mountain
- The Enchanted Forest in Red River
- Valles Caldera National Monument near Los Alamos
These areas often feature designated snowshoe trails and the chance to explore fresh snow after a recent storm.
Guided Snowmobile Tours

For a more thrilling winter activity, consider a guided snowmobile tour. These tours, available from late November to early April, range from a few hours to full-day excursions. Many tours allow time for individual exploration, letting you carve out your own winter adventure.
Tubing and Sledding

Tubing and sledding are fun for all ages and provide a fantastic way to enjoy the snow. Many tubing hills in New Mexico feature magic carpets to whisk you back up the hill for endless runs.
- Southern New Mexico: Ski Cloudcroft and Ruidoso Winter Park
- Northern New Mexico: Angel Fire, Red River, and Taos Ski Valley
Don’t forget to link up tubes with friends or ask for an extra spin for added excitement!
Ice Fishing and Ice Skating in New Mexico

Winter isn’t just about snow—it’s also a time to enjoy frozen lakes and rinks across the state.
- Ice Skating: Many towns and cities in New Mexico feature indoor ice rinks, perfect for skating or practicing hockey throughout the winter.
- Ice Fishing: Eagle Nest Lake, located along the Enchanted Circle scenic byway, is a favorite destination. It’s home to trout and salmon, offering year-round fishing opportunities.
Spring Preview: Snowmelt and Early Season Rafting

As winter transitions to spring, New Mexico’s rivers swell with snowmelt, making early-season rafting a must-try activity. Whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande is one of the only opportunities to experience winter and whitewater in the same day! Starting as early as mid-March, you can experience the river with fewer crowds and enjoy the beauty of the changing season.
Enjoying the Best of New Mexico Winter Activities
Winter in New Mexico is a season full of diverse activities for all interests. From serene snowshoeing trails and thrilling snowmobile tours to family-friendly tubing hills and frozen lake adventures, the Land of Enchantment has something for everyone.
Rio Grande Racecourse Half Day
$60 Child
Rio Grande Gorge Rafting Full Day
$95 Child
$450 Child