* WHAT...Heavy mixed precipitation expected. Total snow accumulations between 4 and 10 inches across much of eastern New Mexico with higher amounts of 10 to 16 inches above 9,000 feet. * WHERE...Portions of central, east central, north central, and northeast New Mexico. * WHEN...From 11 AM this morning to 8 AM MST Sunday. * IMPACTS...Travel will become very difficult to impossible for an extended period of time, most notably along I-40 from Tijeras Canyon to the Texas border. The weight of accumulating snow will stress the power grid, potentially creating outages. An extended period of cold temperatures will increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Bitterly cold temperatures will also accompany this winter storm, with the coldest temperatures in the eastern plains of New Mexico. Temperatures will be coldest Sunday and Monday mornings when much of the eastern half of New Mexico will be in the single digits with wind chills below zero.
Sipapu Ski Area is on the brink of a winter revival this January 23, 2026. Sipapu Ski Area is a quaint ski resort in New Mexico that boasts of being one of the oldest ski resorts in the state.
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Though the current snowpack sits at a modest 1 inch—an 86% drop from average levels—hope looms large on the horizon. After a mild overnight low of 26.8°F, forecasters predict a swift turnaround with nearly 13 inches of fresh snow expected over the next 72 hours. Today alone could bring just under an inch, setting the stage for a much-needed powder refresh across the mountain.
Despite a slow start due to unseasonably warm early-season temps, excitement is building as Sipapu prepares for changes on and off the slopes. A beloved lift is being replaced, promising smoother rides and quicker access to terrain as the season progresses. With Sipapu’s family-friendly charm and a renewed snow outlook, now is the time to plan your carve. Keep an eye on storm totals—if the forecast holds, the weekend may unveil a transformed mountain blanketed in soft snow.
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, a 30 percent chance of snow showers after 2pm. partly sunny, with a high near 41. southwest wind around 10 mph. total daytime snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.
Sipapu Ski Area is expected to receive up to 12.28" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
Northern New Mexico is expected to see moderate snow accumulation over the next five days, with the heaviest snowfall forecasted near Chamita (16"), Rio Santa Barbara (13"), and multiple sites near Tres Ritos, Gallegos Peak, and Palo (all 12"). These locations are in close proximity to major ski resorts such as Taos Ski Valley and Sipapu Ski Resort. Taos Ski ... Read more