Pajarito Mountain Ski Area, Los Alamos

An old-fashioned ski area with a variety of runs, especially steep, wide trails and cat tracks. The lifts feel a bit budget, with no padding or pull bars, but they work fine. Since the prices are also cheaper it's ok. Be aware that while the website says you can exchange tickets up until the night before, it's really only until about noon the day before or so.

We've been coming here for 2 years now and have yet to have any bad experience. The staff is AMAZING - friendly, helpful and diligent in their jobs. The instructors are top notch and its very likely you'll be in a much smaller group size for lessons than most other places. The skiing is great (though I wish the snow gods would gift them with more snow). The ski community is far and above any other NM ski areas; we've never seen anywhere near the trash like at Santa Fe or others, and everyone really looks out for each other, checking on you if they see you down etc. We've also found it to be very family friendly and our kids really feel "at home" here. Finally, the prices and lack of crowds (both lift lines and parking are never a problem) can't be beat. Kids under 12 ski free and adult lift tickets are on demand pricing, so buying ahead saves $$ and we've never payed more than $85 for lift tickets.