Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing at

Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area - PO Box

219, Red River, NM 87558

Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area in Red River, New Mexico (800-966-9381, 505-754-2374, www.enchantedforestxc.com) has 33 km of trails groomed for classic and skate skiing and 15 km for snowshoeing. Enchanted Forest is known for the entertaining events it schedules and the great scenic views in its 600 acres of ancient forests, aspen groves and sweeping meadows. Register for the Just Desserts Eat & Ski slated for Feb. 25

There are xc ski equipment rentals and lessons available at the center and there's retail equipment, clothing, and accessories selection at Millers Crossing (the area proprietors' retail store) in the town of Red River. Numerous scenic views from the trails including Wheeler Peak, the highest point in New Mexico and downtown Red River.

Ladies Snowshoe Tour every Thursday at 12:30 for two hours for $5 with a $5 snowshoe rental available - and there are also naturalist and head lamp snowshoe tours that are offered. Bring the dog for the 5 km of smooth groomed trails open to them to ski with you if they are under voice command. No trail fee for the dog and there are waste bags along the trail. Lodging and services are in the town, which is a step back to the Old West in the Sangre de Christo Mountains. Enchanted Forest has a warming hut day lodge for a snack and two new shelters on the trails.

Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area is 3 miles east of Red River on Bobcat Pass. Open daily 9 AM - 4:30 PM $12 for trail pass, $9 for 13-17 year olds and seniors; $5 for 12 and under. Three day punchcard available for discounted trail fees. Nearby alpine ski areas include Taos, Angel Fire, Red River Ski Area and there is also skiing at the Wild Rivers Rec Area. CCSAA member