Winter Trails
Skiing, snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, snowboarding abounds in Sandoval County. With consistent snowfall and sunny skies, the Jemez Mountains give way to a world that is a winter wonderland surrounded by turquoise skies and plenty of sunshine. The area offers wide open terrain, mountain ranges that will thrill you and fulfill the outdoor adventure dreams for all snow enthusiasts. The best skiing and snowshoeing are from late December through February.
The Jemez Mountains have a lot of options. Just check out the skiing trails! These are not your typical groomed ski trails so be ready for a true winter wonderland of rugged back-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Valles Caldera National Preserve is an incredibly gorgeous pristine valley, especially during those glorious morning hours.
FENTON LAKE STATE PARK – Hal Baxter Memorial Trail
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.
VALLES CALDERA NATIONAL PRESERVE – La Jara Loop
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.
VALLES CALDERA NATIONAL PRESERVE - 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.
VALLES CALDERA NATIONAL PRESERVE – 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.
BANDELIER NATIONAL MONUMENT - Frijoles Rim Trail
Upper Frijoles Canyon Overlook trail 7.7 miles Class 2 – 4 trail
This is an out and back trail route into the Caja del Rio wildness. It offers epic views of piñon juniper forest and sagebrush.