Sunset glow, mountain thrills, small-town charm
Angel Fire, east of Taos, lives up to its name. The Moache Utes, who once gazed at the fiery glow of sunsets on Agua Fría Peak, called it the “fire of the gods.” Today, that glow shines on a village known for big-mountain adventure and small-town charm. Angel Fire Resort anchors the community with 82 trails, four glade runs, and more than 2,000 vertical feet of skiing/riding. Families flock to the six-lane tubing hill, while weekend night skiing keeps the slopes alive under the stars. Horse-drawn sleigh rides, shopping and après-ski fun round out the winter magic.
Dining comes with a view: Elements at the Country Club offers refined cuisine, while the Summit Haus at 10,600 feet pairs comfort food with panoramas into Colorado. Down in the village, Mikuna Grill blends Peruvian and Southwestern flavors, while El Jefe delivers tacos and tequila at the resort base. The après scene is buzzing with newcomers. Nuckolls Brewing Company opened in 2024 with a 20-barrel brewhouse, expansive taproom, and beer garden. Elevated Pour, a sleek wine and cocktail bar beside the Angel Fire Visitor Center, serves curated wines, craft cocktails, and small plates.
Getting here is easier, too. Advanced Air now offers seasonal 40-minute flights from Albuquerque to Angel Fire Airport — one of the highest in the country — complete with village shuttle connections.
Visitor Center • 575-377-6555 • visitangelfirenm.com | Angel Fire Resort • 800-633-7463 • angelfireresort.com | Advanced Airlines • advancedairlines.com/airports/angel-fire-airport
Mountain Stats – Angel Fire Resort
* Season: Mid-December – late March (weather permitting)
* Base Elevation: 8,600 feet
* Summit Elevation: 10,677 feet
* Vertical Drop: 2,077 feet
* Skiable Acres: 560
* Trails: 82 (beginner to advanced) + 4 glade runs
* Lifts: 7 (including 2 high-speed quads)
* Night Skiing: Offered on weekends and holidays
* Annual Snowfall: 210 inches (average)
* Snowmaking Coverage: 52 percent of terrain
* Sunshine: 300+ days a year