Red River Ski Area Ski Report
Rate this placeNearby: Taos Ski Valley
Last Updated: January 2, 2026
Red River Ski Area kicks off January 2, 2026, with mild overnight temps around 36°F and a modest snowpack depth of just 2 inches—significantly below the seasonal average by over 80%. Red River Ski Area is a family-friendly ski resort in New Mexico with 57 trails and a vertical drop of 1,600 feet.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
While conditions are currently thin on the slopes, there's a glimmer of hope in the forecast: 2 inches of fresh snow is expected within the next 24 hours, with nearly an inch more predicted over the next three days. The Snow Water Equivalent sits at 0.9", suggesting that what snow does fall should be dense enough to help shore up the base.
Despite the light snowpack, Red River is buzzing with energy as it celebrates its 60th anniversary—a testament to its enduring charm and family-owned legacy. Visitors can expect a festive atmosphere both on and off the slopes, with local news outlets highlighting the town's alpine appeal and winter festivities. With the historic early-season snowfalls across New Mexico and a snow-friendly forecast on tap, skiers and snowboarders should keep their eyes on Red River. Conditions may be lean now, but the mountain spirit—and the snow—are beginning to build.
Weather Forecast
Seasonal Comparison
Year over year snow water equivalent
Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from Red River Pass #2.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Red River Pass #2
Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Red River Ski Area.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Red River Ski Area
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Red River Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
The Red River Ski Area in New Mexico is located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, which are part of the southern Rocky Mountains. The resort is situated in the Carson National Forest and offers a variety of ski runs and terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
Some of the pertinent mountain ranges and aspects of the Red River Ski Area include:
1. Wheeler Peak: The highest peak in New Mexico, standing at 13,161 feet, Wheeler Peak is located near the Red River Ski Area and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
2. Gold Hill: A popular ski area within the Red River Ski Area, Gold Hill offers a variety of challenging runs for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
3. Pioneer Bowl: Another popular skiing area within the resort, Pioneer Bowl features wide-open slopes and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
4. Summit Lift: The Summit Lift at the Red River Ski Area provides access to some of the highest and most challenging terrain at the resort, including black diamond runs and expert-level terrain.
Overall, the Red River Ski Area offers a mix of terrain and mountain aspects that make it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
The resort is known for its beginner and intermediate runs, particularly the ski school's terrain-based teaching areas. One interesting fact is that the resort was originally a mining town, and the ski area was started in the 1950s to attract winter tourism. For beginners, the ski school offers private lessons and group packages to help build skills and confidence. The Lift House Bar and Grill is a popular spot for apres ski drinks and food, with live music on weekends.
Red River Ski Area FAQ
How much snow did Red River Ski Area receive over the past day?
The ski area received -1" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Red River Ski Area today?
Weather today, a 30 percent chance of showers, mainly between 11am and 5pm. cloudy, with a high near 43. west wind 10 to 15 mph.
What are ski area conditions in New-Mexico like right now?
As of today, ski conditions across New Mexico remain generally stable with limited new snowfall. The highest snowpack is reported at Navajo Whiskey Creek (190"), although that area lacks nearby major resorts. Among ski destinations, Taos Ski Valley — near Gallegos Peak and Taos Powderhorn — reports modest snowpack (13–15") and up to 1" forecast over the next five days. ... Read more