Summer Adventures at Red River Ski & Summer Area
A mountain gem in northern New Mexico.
Tucked into a narrow valley in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the mountain outpost of Red River, New Mexico, is one of those towns that it's almost hard to believe exists. Surrounded by mountains, the forested slopes of New Mexico's tallest peaks rise right off of Main Street.
Small in size but big in adventure, Red River Ski & Summer Area is the perfect summer destination for outdoor lovers of all kinds.
Ride a Chairlift to the Top
Scenic is one word to describe a summer chairlift ride to the top of Red River Ski & Summer Area, "adventure jumping off point" are a few more. Hop on the three-seat chairlift to cruise the 1,600 vertical feet to Summit Camp. It's a 30-minute ride, so take that time to enjoy the views of the Sangre de Cristos and the Carson National Forest.
After snapping a few pictures at the top you can grab another lift back down, but we think there's too much to do at Summit Camp for such a short trip. For example...
Disc Golf at 10,350 Feet
We can almost guarantee you've never seen a disc golf course like the one at Red River Ski & Summer Area. The 21-hole course follows the mountain's ski runs on and around the summit. Amateurs will love the short "greens" on the Back Nine, while the Front Nine's longer drives will challenge even advanced players.
The course is free to play, and discs are available for rent from the Pro Shop at the Ski Tip Restaurant at Summit Camp.
Refuel and Relax at the Ski Tip Restaurant
The Ski Tip Restaurant at Summit Camp is open both summer and winter, but summer is when you can relax on the deck, beer in hand, taking in panoramic views of the northern New Mexico mountains. Fare is hearty with burgers, soups, and sandwiches, and drinks are always on tap.
In the summer, the Music on Top series features free concerts on the restaurant's deck every Saturday afternoon.
Hike Around, or Hike Down
After a scenic ride up the mountain, some disc golf on the summit, and with your stomach full of great good, it's time to head down. You could hitch a ride on the chairlift, sure, but how about giving your legs a bit of a workout?
Hop on a trail and make your way back down to the base, or, simply set out on a meandering wander down the ski slopes. All the groomed trails lead to the bottom, right?
A day at Red River Ski & Summer Area is just the start of the fun in Red River. Don't miss the Red River Nature Trail, or, if you haven't had your disc golf fill, check out the 9-hole course at Mallette Park.
For more Red River adventures, check out 3 Summer Activities in the Mountain Haven of Red River, New Mexico.
Photos courtesy of Red River Ski & Summer Area
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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