There are two ski areas that call Red River home, Red River Ski & Summer Area and The Enchanted Forest Cross Country & Snowshoe Area. Red River Ski & Summer Area is designed for alpine (downhill) skiing; whereas, Enchanted Forest Cross Country & Snowshoe Area is for Nordic (cross-country) fans. But for those who aren’t familiar with skiing, how are you supposed to know which one is right for you?
When you grow up skiing in Red River you become one with the mountains, quite literally after tumbling down them a few times. (Yes, even locals fall every once in awhile.) So luckily for you, we know a thing or two about skiing in Red River, NM.
Red River Ski & Summer Area
The largest ski area in town is Red River Ski & Summer Area which is designed for downhill skiing. If you’re someone who is familiar with skiing this term is nothing new to you. But if you’re not a skiing expert like myself you might be thinking, “Isn’t all skiing downhill?” While you’re technically not wrong, there is a difference. Downhill skiing is what you envision when you think of “traditional” skiing where you take the lift to the top of the mountain and ski down it. This skiing style is extremely fast paced and sometimes even competitive for those hitting the slopes.
Enchanted Forest
Our friends at Enchanted Forest offer a different, more leisurely style of skiing in Red River. Cross-country skiing is for those who want to slow down and enjoy their surroundings, compared to the fast pace style of downhill skiing. With cross-country skiing, you are able to glide up, down, and around the mountain in a sort of walking fashion. There’s nothing competitive about this style. It’s all about enjoying your surroundings and exploring the mountain at a leisure pace.
Here in Red River, NM we continue to pride ourselves on having something for everyone, and our skiing styles are no exception. So now it’s up to you. Are you an adventure seeker who craves the fast pace of downhill skiing? Or are you more relaxed and want to slow down to take in the beauty of freshly fallen snow on the mountain?
