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Five Must Do Wilderness Snowshoe & Cross-country Ski Trails


Enjoy the majestic beauty of mountains in the winter.

We have stunning locations for Nordic skiing with options for all levels of skiers. When traveling in wilderness areas with changing weather conditions and deep snow, be prepared for changing conditions.

Rest assured many exciting adventures await you.

  • Fenton Lake State Park

    A perfect valley nestled between the mountains for a leisurely 2.3-mile Class 1 loop. If you are in for a bit more adventure, the north eastern area of Fenton Lake is great to explore. Explore!

  • Valles Caldera National Monument

    Valles Caldera is an 89,000-acre diverse landscape thriving with an abundance of wildlife, flora and fauna, towering mountain meadows, and winding streams located in the Jemez Mountains. It is the prefect immersion adventure. Trails within the Valles Caldera include:
    La Jara Loop 1.5 Class 1 Loop - This trail is excellent for families with young children just learning to cross country or snowshoe. Explore!

  • Valles Caldera National Monument South Mountain Trail

    South Mountain Trail 8.2-mile Class 2 – 3 trail - You’ll need some skins on your skis as you rise in elevation but well worth it, as the best views of the Valle Grande are from this summit. Explore!

  • Rio Cebolla Trail

    4.9 miles Class 1-4 trail
    A very popular slow and soft trail for cross country skiers. Look for the tracks of elk, coyote and deer. Maybe, you will spot wildlife off in the distance. Explore!

  • Bandelier National Monument Trail

    Upper Frijoles Canyon Overlook trail 7.7 miles Class 2 – 4 trail
    Is an out and back trail route into the Caja del Rio wildness. It offers epic views of pinion juniper forest and sagebrush. Explore!

After a day of winter fun, unwind, relax and soak in the natural comfortable mineral hot springs of Jemez Springs. There are several options in the Jemez Springs area to choose from including: Jemez Springs Bath House, Giggling Springs Hot Springs and Canon del Rio Retreat. All are good choices.

Playing in the snow creates the need for a great meal. So, try artisan pizza and local brews at Jemez Mountain Brewhouse - or maybe a green chile cheeseburger at Los Ojos Restaurant & Saloon offers the best in the mountains.