Snow on cacti? Yes, that bizarre juxtaposition happens here in New Mexico. While snow in the southern half of the state falls primarily in the mountains, overall, our ski resorts average 300 inches of powder every season. Here are 15 stunning photos of New Mexican landscapes transformed by snow.

1. Snow softens the brutally-sharp spikes of a cholla cactus.
Flickr/Michele
2. Snow blankets the erupted remains of the Bandera Volcano.
Flickr/Mary Madigan
3. Perhaps this herd of elk is also wowed by the snow-covered beauty of the land surrounding Bandelier National Monument, near Los Alamos.
Flickr/Larry Lamsa
4. The warm earth tones of New Mexico's adobe-style houses emphasize this dramatic contrast in colors.
Flickr/Paul Sableman
5. The scenery around the Valles Caldera is always spectacular, even in the wake of fire. This 12-mile wide volcanic crater is located between Jemez Springs and Los Alamos.
Flickr/Larry Lamsa
6. Snow adds an element of mystery to the ruins at Bandelier National Monument.
Flickr/mimerkel
7. Snow and clouds meet on a New Mexican mountainside.
Flickr/Michele

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8. Aztec ruins, in northwestern New Mexico, carpeted in snow.
Flickr/Travis
9. The drive up the the Santa Fe Ski Basin offers panoramic views throughout the year, but it is particularly magical during winter.
Flickr/Paul Sableman
10. The views from the Angel Fire ski lifts are unsurpassed.
Flickr/Brandi
11. Although Ruidoso is located in the southern portion of the state, locals are no strangers to freezing conditions in this ski resort town.
Flickr/Laura Lafond
12. This snowy view is certainly worth admiring—from indoors, with cocoa.
Flickr/Raul Diaz
13. Snow highlights the craggy nature of this mountain, near Arroyo Seco.
Flickr/Paul Sableman
14. Trees in Valles Caldera gleam in the winter light.
Flickr/Larry Lamsa
15. A snowy sunset over Embudo.
Flickr/Mike Lewinski

What about you? Does the first dusting of crisp snow thrill you? If you’ve captured pictures of your favorite New Mexican snow scene, please share them in the comments below.

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