Ski Santa Fe Closes Season Early Amid Warm Weather

Ski Santa Fe in New Mexico is set to conclude its ski season earlier than anticipated, announcing on March 24, 2025, that it will shut down operations on March 30. The decision arrives in response to "unusually warm temperatures and rapidly diminishing snow," according to an official statement from the ski area.

The ski area's marketing director, Eric Thompson, expressed disappointment over the early closure, acknowledging how promising the season began. On November 23, 2024, Ski Santa Fe opened its doors thanks to 27 inches of early snowfall, marking the first time since 2001 that the area opened prior to Thanksgiving. "I think we had a great season," Thompson noted, adding, "it is unfortunate to end a week early." This season has been particularly challenging for snowfall, which has been scarce across most of Northern New Mexico.

This past winter saw considerable fluctuations in weather, with the National Weather Service forecasting that the Santa Fe area would experience temperatures reaching the high 60s or low 70s throughout the closing week. Such conditions have notably influenced snow levels, prompting officials to reevaluate their planned closing date.

Despite the disappointing turn in weather toward the end of the season, the early months were buoyed by the successful debut of the new Santa Fe Express quad chairlift. The lift drastically reduced wait times, allowing skiers and snowboarders to ascend the mountain in just four minutes, a considerable improvement over the ten-minute ride provided by the previous chairlift, the Super Chief. "Even on our busiest days, we saw very few lift lines," Thompson remarked.

Ski Santa Fe reported a solid 38-inch base with 89% of its terrain still open as of March 24, leading up to the season's final weekend. As the ski area prepares to close, it will host a celebratory Beach Party at Totemoff’s Bar and Grill. The event, set for Sunday, March 30, will feature live music from Half Broke Horses and various drink specials, creating an engaging atmosphere for those wishing to make the most of the last opportunity this season.

Visitors who have already purchased lift tickets or signed up for lessons scheduled for dates between March 31 and April 6, when Ski Santa Fe initially planned to close, can pursue refunds through the ski area’s website. The management highlighted that those wishing to resolve refund issues can reach out via email or a dedicated phone line.

Looking ahead to future seasons, Ski Santa Fe promises a robust lineup of enhancements. Following the conclusion of this ski season, work will begin on the Easy Street Quad lift aimed at beginner skiers, an undertaking that Thompson described as a substantial project expected to take the entire summer to complete. With the summer off-season fast approaching, the Santa Fe Express lift is slated to remain operational for fall foliage viewing starting in September 2025.

Season pass holders for the 2024-25 season are encouraged to retain their passes, as these can be reloaded for the following season. For those considering the upcoming 2025-26 ski season, season passes will go on sale starting September 1, 2025.

As skiers and snowboarders in New Mexico and around the West reflect on a season that has oscillated between highs and lows, many will carry memories of the cherished time spent on the slopes, even if the end came sooner than many had hoped. Ski areas across the Southwest, including Sandia Peak near Albuquerque, have faced similar trials with early closures attributed to warm weather and limited snow.

In a broader context, Ski Santa Fe's closing pattern reflects a larger trend seen across many ski areas in the region, where rising temperatures and diminishing snowpacks are becoming increasingly common. Various reports have noted that ski resorts in Washington, California, and Utah have also encountered unexpected warm spells and fluctuating conditions this season.

As the current ski season draws to a close, Ski Santa Fe remains committed to offering a top-notch mountain experience to its guests. “We would like to express our deepest appreciation to our staff, who worked tirelessly to deliver a top-notch mountain experience throughout the season,” the ski area stated in a recent social media update.

Despite the challenges, it’s evident there is much to look forward to as Ski Santa Fe preps for future seasons with new enhancements, continued dedication to improving guest experiences, and the ever-present anticipation of the next snowfall.