Ski Cloudcroft

Ski Cloudcroft is a small, old-school ski area east of Cloudcroft in the Sacramento Mountains. Its small size, cheap lift tickets, and beginner-friendly terrain make it a good option for families and first-time skiers. Because it sits so far south, conditions can vary considerably from year to year, and the upper mountain depends heavily on natural snowfall.

Terrain Overview

Ski Cloudcroft has 25 trails: 8 beginner, 7 intermediate, 8 advanced, and 2 expert. A double chairlift serves the upper mountain, while a handle tow and rope tow serve smaller areas near the base. With only 700 feet of vertical, this is much smaller than destinations like Ski Apache or Taos Ski Valley, but that compact size works well for beginners and families looking for a straightforward day on the snow.

Facilities & Services

• Ski and snowboard rentals
• Ski and snowboard lessons
• Chalet restaurant and viewing deck
• Winter tubing
• Summer tubing

Getting There

Ski Cloudcroft is located directly along U.S. Highway 82 about 2 miles east of Cloudcroft. From Alamogordo, the ski area is about 19 miles away, with the highway climbing steeply from the Tularosa Basin into the Sacramento Mountains. Winter storms can make this stretch of US 82 snowy or icy, so check road and ski-area conditions before heading up. ([Ski Cloudcroft][3])

Quick Facts

• Base Elevation: 8,400 ft
• Summit Elevation: 9,100 ft
• Vertical Drop: 700 ft
• Skiable Acres: 74 acres
• Trails: 25
• Lifts: 3
• Closest Town: Cloudcroft
• Season: Typically mid-December through March, depending on snowfall and temperatures