Red River Ski Area Ski Report
Rate this placeNearby: Taos Ski Valley
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
A crisp winter morning greets Red River Ski Area this December 19, 2025, with overnight air temperatures hovering just above freezing at 31.3°F. 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
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Humidity
Summary
While the snowpack depth currently sits at a modest 4 inches—about 65% below average for this time of year—there’s a glimmer of hope in the mid-mountain forecast, which hints at a light snowfall expected later this week. Skiers should anticipate variable conditions, with early-season terrain open primarily for beginner and intermediate levels. Groomed runs are your best bet until fresh powder arrives.
Despite the lean snowpack, there's plenty of energy on the mountain as Red River celebrates its 60th anniversary, marking decades of family-owned charm and authentic ski-town spirit. Exciting developments are also underway with plans for a new chairlift, poised to enhance lift access in seasons to come. Off the slopes, the town continues to enchant, recently recognized among the "Most Charming River Towns" and "Most Eccentric Towns" in New Mexico. Illuminated night runs and festive winter events keep the holiday mood alive, making Red River an inviting destination even as skiers await a deeper base. Keep an eye on the forecast—conditions could turn powdery with just one good storm.
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 -2" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Red River Ski Area today?
Weather today, sunny, with a high near 45. breezy, with a west wind 20 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph.
What are ski area conditions in New-Mexico like right now?
New Mexico ski areas are experiencing a dry spell, with no new snowfall reported across the state and no snow forecast over the next five days. Snowpack levels remain modest, with the deepest totals recorded at Taos Powderhorn (13"), Rio Santa Barbara (13"), and Hopewell (13"). Taos Ski Valley, the top destination near Taos Powderhorn and Rio Santa Barbara, has ... Read more