Skiers and snowboarders heading to Sipapu Ski Area this December 24 will find a mixed bag of conditions. Sipapu Ski Area is a quaint ski resort in New Mexico that boasts of being one of the oldest ski resorts in the state.
Wind
Humidity
Overnight temperatures held mild at 39.4°F, limiting the preservation of natural snow. With a snowpack depth of just 1 inch—about 73% below seasonal average—and a Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) of only 0.2, natural coverage is thin and terrain remains limited. However, recent snowfall earlier in the week has helped slightly improve conditions, and snowmaking teams have been working around the clock to enhance key runs. Expect primarily machine-groomed trails with spotty coverage off-piste. A light dusting is in the forecast for late Christmas Eve, offering a hopeful refresh for the holiday crowds.
In resort news, excitement is stirring as Sipapu prepares to replace one of its beloved lifts—a nod to modernization while honoring its deep-rooted legacy in New Mexico’s century-long ski history. Family-friendly events and festive vibes are in full swing, making Sipapu a charming holiday destination despite lean snow conditions. While it may not be a powder-filled Christmas, the resort’s commitment to guest experience and mountain charm continues to shine. Bring your rock skis, holiday spirit, and keep an eye on the skies—more snow could be just around the corner.
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 Tres Ritos.
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 Sipapu Ski Area.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Sipapu Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
Sipapu Ski Area is located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in northern New Mexico. The resort sits in the Carson National Forest and is known for its diverse terrain and family-friendly atmosphere. The mountain ranges surrounding Sipapu include the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Carson National Forest, which provide stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
Some of the key mountain aspects of Sipapu Ski Area include:
1. Diverse Terrain: Sipapu offers a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs, making it a great destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
2. Natural Snow: Sipapu is known for its plentiful natural snowfall, which provides excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions throughout the winter season.
3. Ski Lifts: The resort features several chairlifts and surface lifts that provide access to a variety of runs and terrain options.
4. Ski School: Sipapu offers ski and snowboard lessons for all ages and abilities, making it a great place for beginners to learn and improve their skills.
5. Terrain Parks: Sipapu has terrain parks with features and obstacles for freestyle skiers and snowboarders to practice and challenge themselves.
Overall, Sipapu Ski Area offers a unique mountain experience in the beautiful Sangre de Cristo Mountains of New Mexico.
The resort has a total of 41 trails, with the best trails for intermediate skiers being the Thumper, the Cruiser, and the Lower Bambi. For beginners, the easiest and most popular run is the Practice Slope. An interesting fact about Sipapu Ski Area is that it has been family-owned and operated for over 60 years. For après-ski, the Riverside Cafe is a great place to grab a beer and a bite to eat while enjoying the scenic views of the Rio Pueblo. Overall, Sipapu Ski Area is a great option for those looking for a more laid-back ski experience in New Mexico.
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, partly sunny, with a high near 51. west wind around 10 mph.
Nationwide, skiers and snowboarders are eyeing the latest snowfall reports and forecasts as resorts prepare for a fresh dusting. In Washington State, Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge has received 2 inches of new snow over the past 24 hours, with a base depth of 170 inches. While not a ski resort, the nearby Crystal Mountain Resort will surely benefit from this snowfall, ... Read more