Content Produced in Partnership with Discover Ruidoso
When you think of picturesque mountain getaways, New Mexico is not likely the first place to jump to mind but perhaps it should be. Ruidoso is an enchanting oasis among the sweltering desert heat. While summertime temperatures throughout the rest of the state often reach upwards of 90 degrees by the middle of July, Ruidoso rarely reaches above 80 in mid-summer thanks to the altitude, making it perfectly pleasant to participate in outdoor pursuits all year-round. With dozens of rustic cabins available, you’ll feel like you stepped out of a fairy tale. It’s hard to beat relaxing on the porch, frosty beverage in hand, watching the elk and deer amble by. If deck sitting were an Olympic sport, they very well may take home the Gold.
The cool mountain temperatures stick around from May through October making it a great destination any season, but snowfall from December-March signals ski season is underway. If you’re surprised to learn there is skiing in the Southwest, Ski Apache actually gets over 15 feet annually, so powder hounds, never fear, this is way more than a bunny hill. In the summer, the resort is transformed into an adventure playground, with mountain biking, hiking, and zip lining aplenty.
What is this Magical Place?
Settled by Native Americans, that culture is still deeply rooted in Ruidoso. Originally named Rio Ruidoso, which literally means “Noisy River,” the quaint village is tucked in the rugged Sierra Blanca Mountains and revolves around the world-class ski mountain, Ski Apache, which is owned and operated by the Mescalero Apache Tribe. Opened Christmas of ’61, the resort was the first to pioneer multi-passenger gondolas, cementing it’s place the history of the ski industry and making it a must-see for winter sport enthusiasts.
Whether you want to check the spot off your ski bucket list, or are looking to beat the heat in the sweltering summer months, Ruidoso is an easy getaway from a number of locations like Roswell (1.5 hours), El Paso (2.5 hours), and Albuquerque (3 hours). It’s not called the “Land of Enchantment” for nothing.