A family ski trip to Angel Fire, New Mexico is one of my favorite ways to spend Christmas. If you live in driving distance, this is a very affordable family ski vacation that will leave enough in your bank account for the Christmas gifts too.

At Angel Fire Everybody Skis

The great thing about Angel Fire for families is that there are plenty of kid-friendly green runs. There is also an all day ski school as well as daycare for the really little ones. And unlike the pricier and more crowded popular Colorado ski resorts, the reasonably priced lift tickets in Angel Fire, New Mexico grant you quick access to lifts that put you in place for nice long runs. While the mountain is geared to the blue-green skier, there are a few black runs to keep the more advanced skiers happy, but not so challenged that they end up in the ER. For those who really need a workout, the steep slopes of Taos are just thirty minutes over the mountain pass. The only drawback to New Mexico versus Colorado is that the snow is less predictable. If you’re going for Christmas, you’ll be there at the start of their snow season. That said, I’ve been several times and though I haven’t been able to ski every day, I’ve never been too disappointed.

Eating and Lodging for Your Angel Fire Ski Vacation

One of the best things about Angel Fire is the ski-in-ski-out access from the lodge to the slopes. I like to be able to go back to the room for lunch. If you are able to drive to the resort, pack a big cooler full of lunchmeat, cheese, and bread for killer mid-day sandwiches. You’ll also want to pack plenty of snacks and your favorite beverages! If you fly in, just hit a grocery store in town at the base of the hill. It’ll do your wallet and your waistline good to eat lunch in your room.

Sometimes the resort will run a special that includes a buffet breakfast with your room rate and this is a great deal. Other than that, I haven’t had good luck with the on-site food at Angel Fire. However, halfway down the hill from the resort—and this is literally walking distance, even in snow—just a couple of blocks—there is a great Chinese food restaurant and an awesome pizza place.

Of course, there are also condos and homes you can rent. I just prefer the convenience of the lodge.

 

Santa’s Parade and Fireworks

Every year on Christmas Eve, Angel Fire puts on a torchlight Santa ski parade and a fireworks show. It’s usually very, very cold and they never seem to start on time—so dress accordingly and put something warm in your Thermos!

 

Angel Fire, New Mexico is a laid back place. If you’re looking to escape the craziness of Christmas, I recommend it.

 

Photo Credit: FrenchBeretArtista, Flickr