Ski Season Near Alamogordo 2026: Ski Apache and Cloudcroft

Ski season is almost here. Ski Apache, up near Ruidoso, plans to open for the 2026 to 2027 season on Saturday, November 28, 2026, according to Ski New Mexico, though the date depends on weather and snow. Closer to home, Ski Cloudcroft has not posted this season's opening date or prices yet. Here is what I found so you can start planning a snow day.

When does Ski Apache open for 2026?

Ski New Mexico's 2026 to 2027 opening dates list Ski Apache's target opening as November 28, 2026, subject to change based on weather, snow conditions and mountain operations. Ski Apache's own website says to check back for opening date updates, so look there before you load up the car.

Ski Apache has 55 trails and 11 lifts, and New Mexico's only eight passenger gondola, which rises to 11,500 feet. It is at 1286 Ski Run Road in Alto, and the phone number is 575-464-3600.

What is new at Ski Apache this season?

According to Ski New Mexico:

• Ski Apache's Snowfactory, which can make snow even when it is too warm for regular snowmaking, is still a big help for early season snow. Ski Apache says it is one of only two units like it operating in the U.S.
• Season passes for 2026 to 2027 are on sale.
• The Free Kids Ticket Program offers free tickets for kids 12 and under on eligible dates.

Can you ski in Cloudcroft?

Yes. Ski Cloudcroft's rates page lists 25 trails served by 3 lifts, from 8,400 feet at the base to 9,100 feet at the top. It is at 1920 1/2 U.S. Highway 82, and the phone number is (575) 682-2333.

The page still shows last season's prices, so treat these as a guide only:

The 2026 to 2027 dates and prices were not posted when I checked on 23 October 2026, so call ahead before you go.

When do other New Mexico ski areas open?

If you are planning a bigger trip, here are the target dates Ski New Mexico lists for 2026 to 2027. All of them depend on the weather.

What does this mean for people living in or moving to Alamogordo?

This is one of my favorite things about living here. You can spend the morning in the desert sunshine and be in the snow in the same day. If you are moving here from somewhere snowy, you get winter fun without shoveling your driveway every week.

For another cold weather outing, see my post on the Cloudcroft ice rink. If you are thinking about a mountain cabin or a home with easy access to the high country, my neighborhoods page is a good place to start.

Frequently Asked Questions

Details are from Ski New Mexico (updated September 22, 2026), the Ski Apache website and the Ski Cloudcroft rates page, checked 23 October 2026. Opening dates depend on the weather and prices can change.