Winter Paradise
Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort has honed the art of blending family-friendly skiing and snowboarding, short lift lines, a long ski season and affordability.
Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northern New Mexico, about 20 miles southeast of Taos, Sipapu sits at 8,200 feet above sea level and the top of the lifts rise to a summit elevation of 9,255 feet above sea level.
Founded in 1952, Sipapu (which means “Land of Paradise”) is the oldest ski area in New Mexico. It’s also the first to open and the last to close every season. Still a family-owned resort, the ski area now boasts 40-plus named trails, four chairlifts, and a vertical drop of 1,055 feet.
When it comes to value,
it’s hard to beat this
New Mexico destination.
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The resort has great northern slope exposure, and conducts snowmaking on 70 percent of its trails. This helps extend the winter season each year and preserve the quality of snow, according to James Coleman, managing partner. He says Sipapu has managed to have New Mexico’s longest ski season six years in a row.
Sue’s Ski School offers group and private lessons for all ages. Junior private lessons are available for kids 4 to 6. The resort also offers free lessons for “never evers.”
When it comes to value, it’s hard to beat this New Mexico destination. With the purchase of a $39 lift ticket, visitors can get free lodging in Sipapu or at participating hotels in Taos. Visitors who drive 100 or more miles can sleep and ride for free. And active members of the military also ski and ride free. Sipapu also offers specials such as “Fourth Day Free,” “Fifth Day Free,” and one where everybody in the car rides for only $50. Check availability with the resort before your trip. And after a great ski day, check out the delicious Riverside Cafe, located right on the Rio Pueblo.
For the 2009/2010 season, the resort will continue offering great lodging and lift ticket deals. Sipapu’s motto, “Family Friendly, Family Fun,” says it all. This tranquil mountain resort offers relaxation and recreation for every member of the family, whether beginner snowplower or expert shredder.
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@SipapuNM or visit us online at
www.sipapunm.com.