Southern Hospitality

As one of the southern-most major ski destinations in the U.S., Ski Apache attracts scores of visitors from the Southwest and Mexico, but riders from all over the world are drawn to this unique and sunny mountain getaway.

Located in the picturesque Sierra Blanca mountain range near Ruidoso, New Mexico, Ski Apache is owned and operated by the Mescalero Apache Tribe.  Located on the reservation and in Lincoln National Forest only three hours southeast of Albuquerque,  Ski Apache’s base elevation rises 9,600 feet above sea level while the peak is 11,400 feet. Sierra Blanca peak forms a stunning backdrop for the area.

Long before settlers came to New Mexico, the mountains, plains and deserts in this part of the Southwest belonged to the Mescalero Apaches. The 463,000-acre reservation near Ruidoso and the ski area were once considered their heartland. Many of Geronimo’s (1829-1909) descendants still reside here.

Ski Apache mixes native culture with winter adventure.

The original ski area opened in 1961. Today, Ski Apache boasts 1,800 feet of vertical drop, 750 acres of skiable terrain, and 55 runs, including the Apache bowl and three terrain parks. And if you love to ski but don’t love the cold, Ski Apache is for you. The average temperature in winter is in the 30s, with plenty of sunshine. However, visitors are advised that even though the climate is milder than other resorts, Ski Apache still gets its share of severe winter weather. For freestylers, the resort offers three terrain parks for beginning, intermediate and advanced shredders.

Last season, Ski Apache began snowmaking on the top of the mountain. Because of its southern location, Ski Apache is always prepared should Mother Nature withhold snow. The snowmaking crews at Ski Apache work the night shift in freezing temperatures covering the mountain in a blanket of man-made snow when needed.

Ski Apache prides itself on catering to beginning and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. More than 100 Professional Ski Instructors of America-certified teachers provide lessons for all skill levels and for ages 4 and up. There are also separate rental shops for skiers and snowboarders. The ski
area’s dining options include: Eagle Café, a cafeteria-style restaurant; Arrowheads Pasta Express, located at the lower level of the main lodge; The Daily Grind for a latte, espresso, or cup of Joe; the Dawg House for a hot dog; and the Spirit Bar for a beer, cocktail and some television.

In winter, ski and lodging packages from Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino, also owned by the Mescalero Apache, are a convenient option. Located in Mescalero just outside of Ruidoso, the Inn has 273 luxury rooms and suites, several restaurants, indoor pool, 38,000-square-foot casino, and additional entertainment options. It offers a variety of ski packages that include lodging, lift tickets, equipment rental and breakfast. For those wishing for a day or two of off-slope recreation, there are plenty of options: history, casinos, scenery and culture. As one of two American Indian-owned ski resorts in the world, Ski Apache mixes native culture with winter adventure for a relaxing, diverse and exciting winter vacation.

Follow us on Twitter @SkiApache or visit us online at www.skiapache.com.

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