This Chairlift Is the Best Way to See New Mexico’s Fall Foliage

Fall is nearly upon us and plans are already underway for pumpkin and apple picking, fall festivals, Oktoberfest, and leaf peeping. Yes, we can certainly find yellow and gold fall foliage hues in many parts of the state, and there are several ways to see it as well. How about a scenic drive or a hike? Better yet, how about a chairlift ride to see fall foliage in New Mexico? I think that may be the best idea yet!

Angel Fire Resort may be a popular place to go skiing and snowboarding come wintertime but it's also a great place to visit year-round. Not only are there hiking trails galore but a bike park, a zipline tour, boating, tennis, pickleball, disc golf, and golf. This resort is certainly an outdoor playground!

But if you really want a bird's-eye view of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the foliage in the fall, taking a chairlift ride is the way to go. Between the spring starting in mid-May through the end of October, Angel Fire Resort offers scenic chairlift rides. During September and October, the rides are offered only Friday through Sunday.

On the chairlift, marvel at the views of the mountains, Moreno Valley, and the golden leaves of fall as you're taken to the summit at 10,677 feet in elevation. The scenery is unreal on the ascent. Once you're at the top, you can enjoy further panoramic views and even stop for a bite to eat at the Summit Haus.

You also have the option of taking the chairlift back down or taking a trail back. I don't know about you but I certainly prefer the chairlift option so I can look around and take photos of the fall foliage.

If you opt to take a chairlift ride to see New Mexico's fall foliage this year, I suggest you head to Angel Fire Resort. The chairlift is open for scenic fall foliage rides Friday through Sunday between Sept. 6 and Oct. 27, 2024. Chairlift tickets can be purchased at the mountain's ticket office or over the phone by calling 575-377-4499. You can visit the official Angel Fire Resort website for exact dates and follow the resort's Facebook page for updates.

If you prefer to go for a fall hike in Angel Fire, New Mexico this fall, check out your options on AllTrails. You should also download the incredibly helpful AllTrails+ app for additional trail information as well as the ability to download maps offline.