Ski Apache The Best Skiing in Ruidoso

Skiing is an activity that everyone should try at least once. Breathing in the cold mountain air, seeing the pristine white powder snow, masterfully riding down the slopes, all of this combines into an unforgettable experience. Visitors to our mountain village will find that Skiing in Ruidoso offers some of the best warm weather skiing around at Ski Apache, the premier Ruidoso skiing resort. We’ll give you an overview of Ski Apache as well as some suggestions for ski rentals.

Ski Apache

  • Address: 1286 Ski Run Rd, Alto, NM
  • Distance from us: 18 miles
  • Hours: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Thurs – Sun, Closed Mon – Wed
Set on the slopes of the Sierra Blanca mountains, Ski Apache has been owned and operated by the Mescalero Apache Tribe since 1963. This Ruidoso skiing resort is New Mexico’s southernmost skiing area, offering a mix of slopes, runs, and a terrain park to entertain skiing enthusiasts of all experience levels.
The peak of the mountain above the resort is over 12,000 feet with a vertical drop of 1,900 feet. The resort received an annual snowfall average of 15 feet and combined with their enhanced snowmaking techniques, this means that there is always enough powder to cover the slopes in the winter season.
Ski Apache boasts over 750 skiable acres, with 55 runs and trails that differ in challenge level. There are a total of 11 lifts onsite, making it easy to get to your preferred run. The resort employs a Ski Patrol that routinely monitors the trails to ensure safety standards are met. Each member of the patrol is an EMT qualified in case of an emergency.

Ski Apache Lessons

Ski Apache offers lessons for every skill level. Whether you are a skiing or snowboarding veteran or whether you are brand new to the slopes, the staff instructors will help you develop your skills and grow your confidence. The resort offers both private and group lessons. The group sessions are registered for on site and typically last around 40 minutes. The private lessons last around 50 mins, giving you specific one on one instruction. Reservations must be made in advance for private lessons.

Ski Apache Rentals

In order to ensure that you have as much time as possible to spend on the mountain, Ski Apache constantly endeavors to make renting equipment quick and easy. There are two locations where you can rent equipment: at the resort itself, or at the Ski Apache Ski Shop in Ruidoso. Both shops rent out skiing and snowboarding equipment, but not clothing of any kind. If you are in need of renting clothing, you’ll have to go to a different rental store in town. Each rental requires a valid driver’s license. The resort also runs a Adaptive Sports program that offers special assistance and equipment to those with disabilities.

Dining at Ski Apache

This resort has a number of dining options onsite, both indoors and out. Whether you are looking for a quick snack between runs, or want to have a relaxing meal after a long day of mastering the slopes, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for at the different venues.

Ski Rentals in Ruidoso

Here in Ruidoso, there are a whole host of options when it comes to finding quality rentals. If you would prefer to look around some of the other local stores, look through the short list below.

Ski West Sports

  • Address: 2807 Sudderth Dr, Ruidoso, NM
  • Distance from us: 0.7 mile
  • Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily

Wild West Ski Shop

  • Address: 1408 Mechem Dr, Ruidoso, NM
  • Distance from us: 4.6 miles
  • Hours: Variable, refer to website

St Bernard Ski & Snowboard

  • Address: 1125 Mechem Dr, Ruidoso, NM
  • Distance from us: 4.6 miles
  • Hours: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily

Your Luxury Cabin Getaway

After conquering the slopes, it’s nice to retreat to a private, intimate cabin to enjoy the company of your loved ones. At Ruidoso Luxury Cabins, we offer the most elegant lodging with a romantic landscape that lets you get the most out of your vacation. Book with us today!