You Must Visit These 8 Awesome Places In New Mexico This Winter
By Monica Spencer|Updated on November 25, 2022(Originally published November 20, 2022)
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
The calendar may not say that winter has arrived just yet, but the temperatures outside certainly say otherwise! The days are getting shorter. The nights are getting longer. It’s just about time for the snow to start falling… may be patchy at first, but it’ll fill in as the season goes on. If you’re looking for ways to make the season a jolly one, then check out these fun-filled activities you can see and do around New Mexico this winter. There are an array of fun things to do in New Mexico in December, January, and on! What are your favorite things to do in New Mexico during the winter? Let us know!
1. See one of the most dazzling holiday light displays at ABQ BioPark.
Boasting more than 500 light displays and a Polar Bear Express, the River of Lights is one fantastic way to ring in the holiday season. Visit and you’ll not only be dazzled by all the lights but your kids might even be starstruck upon meeting Santa while sipping on some hot cocoa. Come see why the River of Lights is one of our favorite winter traditions in New Mexico.
2. Book a stay at a cozy mountain lodge.
The Bavarian Restaurant, 100 Kachina Rd, Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525, USA
One particularly fine example? The Bavarian Lodge found in Taos Ski Valley, which offers picturesque views and accommodations perfect for snuggling. Plus, the German atmosphere means you’ll be treated to some delicious brews and rich foods. This is definitely one of the best places to stay in New Mexico when it's cold outside.
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3. Hop aboard the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad for a Christmas train ride to remember.
If the kiddos in your family are dying to see Santa, you’ll want to check out this magical train ride for memories that will last a lifetime. Not only will they get a chance to see Santa and his elves but you’ll also be treated to beautiful snowy views and some sweet snacks. This wonder-filled Christmas train ride in New Mexico is a delight for the entire family.
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4. Pay a visit to New Mexico’s snowiest town, Red River.
You’ll find a lot of people outside the southwest don’t realize New Mexico sees snow in the winter but it does and a lot of it! The snowiest town in New Mexico is Red River, a mountain town located 36 miles from Taos and it will be the perfect place to feel like you’re in a winter wonderland.
This little mountain town sits 25 miles east of Taos, is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, and is home to some delightful winter activities. You can enjoy skiing, tubing, sleigh rides, and even watching some rather odd shovel races in the snow. Afterward, warm up with tasty food and drinks at one of its many restaurants. Angel Fire is by far one of the most beautiful mountain towns in New Mexico that you're sure to love.
6. Explore the state’s striking landscapes on a winter trail ride.
Venture outdoors this winter by going on a horseback ride in wonderfully chilly conditions. Grindstone Stables near Ruidoso will take you on a three-mile journey through a New Mexico forest, which looks especially magical in the snow. The best part? No riding experience is necessary to head out on this journey! If you've never gone horseback riding in the winter, you've never lived. Seriously.
7. When the temperatures are really dropping, check out some frozen waterfalls!
There’s something simply magical about finding a waterfall frozen in time and you just might be surprised to find some in New Mexico. Keep in mind that you may need to hike a considerable distance to find some of these places but they are truly a breathtaking sight to see! Did you know about the amazing frozen waterfalls in New Mexico? Now you do.
8. Celebrate the holidays and warm up with a plate of tamales.
We don’t know about you, but nothing says winter and/or Christmas like a massive plate of mouthwatering tamales. While they can be enjoyed any time of the year, tamales seem to be a holiday tradition here in the Southwest and we think you should try out some of New Mexico’s best at Teresa’s Tamales. The famous tamales can be found in a humble little roadside restaurant in Cleveland and people have been known to travel long distances for a tasty morsel.
We don’t know about you but we’re definitely looking forward to checking out some of these activities in New Mexico in winter! Be sure to let us know which of these you plan to add to your winter bucket list and any other fun things to do in New Mexico in December that you’re aware of.
Winter in New Mexico is an interesting mixed bag of expectations; in the southernmost regions of the state, there may or may not be snowfall every year, whereas, in the northernmost parts of the state (as well as mountainous regions), snow is to be expected. Some interesting examples of the extremes of a New Mexico winter include:
