Ski season in New Mexico is going to be a little different this year. Skiers and snowboarders were certainly expecting changes to the season due to COVID-19. But once the impacts of state regulations became a reality, many were in for a shock.
Ski Santa Fe and others are restricted to 25% capacity at the time of writing (October 14, 2020.) These severe capacity restrictions will mean many die-hard snowsports fans and loyal passholders may not have access to New Mexico’s ski resorts this winter.
Ski Santa Fe put its passes on sale earlier this week and sold out in a matter of hours. Needless to say, social media that day was full of complaints from those who could not purchase in time. But New Mexico resorts face the unenviable task of adhering to state-mandated regulations while trying to deliver a good customer experience. It’s an impossible task when capacity is so limited.
This season the following restrictions are in place, at least for now:
- New Mexico ski areas will operate at limited uphill lift capacity. That means actual capacity could change based on how many lifts are operating.
- Lift lines will be socially distanced
- You can ride the lifts with your traveling party, but non-traveling party members must ride alone
- Group lessons must adhere to the mass gathering limits (these may vary depending on infection rates)
- All employees must adhere to COVID-Safe Practices
- Maximum occupancy limits will be set for indoor spaces based on state guidance at the time
- Guests and workers must wear a mask
- Places of lodging must adhere to COVID-Safe Practices and will have occupancy restrictions
- Child care operations must adhere to COVID-Safe Practices and will have occupancy restrictions
- No self-serve lockers
- Patrons will be accepted on a reservation-only basis
When New Mexico Ski Resorts will open
Angel Fire Resort
- Opening day is December 11, 2020
- Multiple types of passes are available
Pajarito
- Opening day of November 27 has been postponed
- Power Pass gives access to Pajarito and partner mountains. On sale until November 6
- Check back for capacity and operations updates
Red River
- Opening day is November 25
- Mountain will operate at 25% capacity
- Passes on sale October 19
- Online sales only
- https://www.redriverskiarea.com/winter/20-21-winter-season/
Sandia Peak
- Tram is operating at ⅓ capacity
- Tentative opening day is December 21
- https://sandiapeak.com/
Sipapu Resort
- Opening day is scheduled for November 13
- Various Power Pass packages allow for tickets at other mountains
- Single-day lift tickets have not yet been posted
Ski Apache
- The Ski Apache website says that Ski Apache is temporarily closed.
Ski Santa Fe
- Tentative opening date is November 26, 2020
- Mountain will operate at 25% capacity
- Passes are sold out
- Single-day tickets must be purchased online
Ski Taos
- Opening day is November 26
- Ski Taos will operate at limited capacity
- Passes are on sale Oct 15
- All payments are cashless
- No shuttle service
Colorado, meanwhile, has not put capacity restrictions in place. However, many resorts are restricting their indoor capacity, how many people can ride a lift and eliminating services like rentals and dining. Most resorts are allowing for online booking only, even for pass holders. And, of course, masks are required. Coloradoski.com has links to many of the resorts.
This article was posted by Jesse Williams
