Ski Apache Opening 2025-2026 Season
Winter is calling and Ski Apache is gearing up for another epic season in the beautiful mountains of southern New Mexico! Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for the season before the big opening day arrives.
When is Ski Apache Opening for the 2025-2026 Season?
The Ski Apache opening date for the 2025–2026 season is November 29, 2025 right after Thanksgiving. Our team has been hard at work behind the scenes preparing the slopes, prepping the rental gear, and making sure everything is ready for another incredible winter in the Sierra Blanca Mountains. Whether you’re planning your first visit to Ski Apache or you’re a loyal season pass holder, we’re excited to welcome you back to Ski Apache for a great season.
Ski Apache will operate Saturday and Sunday from 9AM to 3:45 PM weather permitting. For real-time information about snow conditions, open runs and lifts, and any weather-related changes, check out our trail status report and live webcam.Â
Join the Party on the Mountain Celebration
To celebrate the 2025 Ski Apache opening, we’re hosting our annual Party on the Mountain celebration on November 29th from 9AM to 4PM. This will be a family-friendly event with food, fun, ziplining, and live music all day long. Come out and celebrate the start of the ski season with us at Ski Apache!
Ski Apache Lift Tickets, Season Passes, and Deals Â
Lift Tickets  Â
Full day, half day, and gondola ride lift tickets are available for purchase starting opening day. Visitors can purchase lift tickets online, at the ticket window, or at Inn of the Mountain Gods. We recommend buying lift tickets online ahead of time. It helps you skip the lines and you’ll get the best rate. See the tables below for lift ticket pricing.
Please note: special holiday lift ticket prices apply. Get more information about holiday lift ticket prices.
| In-Person Lift Ticket Pricing | |||||
| Adult | Kids (12 and under) | Senior (55-69) | Senior (70+) | Military | |
| Full Day | $160 | FREE | $130 | $72 | $130 |
| Half Day | $115 | FREE | $108 | $108 | |
| Gondola Ride (Scenic Only) | $50 | $40 | $40 | $40 | |
| Online/Inn of the Mountain Gods Kiosk Lift Ticket Pricing | |||||
| Adult | Kids (12 and under) | Senior (55-69) | Senior (70+) | Military | |
| Full Day | $150 | FREE | $130 | $72 | $130 |
| Gondola Ride (Scenic Only) | $45 | $30 | $30 | $30 | |
Season Passes Â
Can’t get enough of the slopes? For avid skiers or snowboarders, a season pass is definitely the way to go. Season passes are available now for purchase before opening day on November 29th. Passholders get unlimited access, free parking, and a 10% discount on lessons, equipment rentals, food and beverages at the Elk Lodge and Eagle Cafe, and logo retail items at the Ski Apache Ski Shop. View pricing below and purchase your season pass for the winter. Season passes can be purchased online, on site, or at the Ski Apache Ski Shop in Ruidoso.
| Season Pass Type | Fee |
| Adult/Teen/Child | $750 |
| Military/College | $700 |
| Senior (ages 55-69) | $700 |
| Senior 70+ | $400 |
Free Kids’ Ticket Program
Families, rejoice! Ski Apache is debuting the Free Kids’ Ticket Program this 2025-2026 season. Children 12 and under ski for free with a paying adult! It’s a fantastic way to introduce young ones to the slopes and foster a lifelong love for winter sports.
Blackout dates do apply during peak periods. During the following dates this program is not available:
- December 26, 2025 – January 4, 2026
- Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday: January 15–19, 2026
- Presidents’ Day Weekend: February 12–16, 2026
Mountain Conditions and Safety at the Start of the SeasonÂ
Before purchasing your lift tickets online this winter season, be sure to check our full lift and trail status report. This report details which lifts are open or closed, and which trails are groomed and open for skiing or snowboarding. We also recommend checking our live mountain webcam to take a look at the snow conditions of the trails for yourself before heading to Ski Apache.
With so much excitement for the beginning of the season, it’s also important to keep in mind a few safety protocols so that everyone has a positive experience on the mountain. Remember to always stay on marked trails and watch for thin snow coverage or natural obstacles. Take it easy on your first few runs, wear a helmet, and be mindful of other skiers and riders as everyone gets back into the rhythm of the slopes.
If you don’t have your own gear, Ski Apache provides equipment rentals, including skis, snowboards, helmets, and poles for your convenience.
Ski Apache Opening FAQÂ
When did Ski Apache open?Â
Ski Apache first opened its doors in 1961 under the name Sierra Blanca Ski Resort. In 1963, the Mescalero Apache Tribe purchased the resort and later renamed it Ski Apache Ski Resort. Today, we continue to be proudly owned and operated by the Mescalero Apache Tribe, making it not only one of the oldest resorts in southern New Mexico, but also one with a rich tribal history and culture.
How difficult are Ski Apache’s slopes? Â
We have a great mix of terrain for all skill levels. Around 20% of the runs are beginner-friendly, perfect for new skiers and riders. Approximately 60% of the mountain is made up of intermediate runs, and the remaining 30% offers advanced and expert terrain for those looking for a challenge.
How long is the ski season at Ski Apache?Â
The Ski Apache season typically runs from late November through mid-to-late March, depending on weather and snowfall. For the 2025–2026 season, the resort is set to open on November 29, with plans to keep the lifts running as long as the snow holds up, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the slopes.