See for yourself at the always-amusing shovel races, February 11–12, 2012, in which adults and li’l scoopers zip down the mountain while sitting on snow shovels, competing for cash prizes.
Nordic Center
Cross-country skiers have a new venue in which to glide, now that Angel Fire has moved its operation from the top of the mountain to the golf course. The new Nordic Center is based out of their recently completed, multi-million-dollar County Club. Visitors can also purchase day passes to the Country Club and enjoy fine dining at Elements, which offers superb mountain views with its steak-and-seafood menu.
On the new course, a variety of trails gently wind through scenic stands of pine and aspen. Some loops are short and flat, catering to novices. Longer tracks provide a high-altitude (8,400 feet) aerobic workout. Groomed trails accommodate both classic and skate-style cross-country skiing. Snowshoeing and sledding are also permitted.
The Nordic Center rents equipment, provides lessons, and has a store with the latest equipment, clothing, and accessories. Spacious new locker rooms and a swimming pool round out the facilities.
On The Mountain
Liberation Park, Angel Fire Resort’s signature lift-serviced summit terrain park, has expanded to include more slip-slidey features. At least a dozen new rails and fun boxes were added for this season.
For those a bit apprehensive of Liberation’s massive jumps, a development park was created next door. It is designed for skiers and snowboarders who want to improve their freestyle skills by practicing on lower features and smaller jumps.
A new, groomed black-diamond run has also been opened. To access the slope, take the Southwest Flyer lift to the top, then hike to C-4, which is past the Nitro run.
The Lodge, which sits at the base of the mountain, has also received a facelift: 45 guest rooms have undergone complete renovations, as has the lobby.—Michael Johnstone
10 Miller Lane; (575) 377-6401; www.angelfireresort.com