Ski Trip Checklist
Ski Trip Checklist for Red River, New Mexico
What to Pack for a Ski Trip
Whether it will be your first time on the slopes or your hundredth, planning a ski trip can seem like a daunting task. That’s why we created this guide to help you plan the perfect ski trip to Red River, New Mexico.
Here is our complete ski trip checklist for skiing or boarding in Red River:
-
- Ski and Snowboard Lessons
- Lift Tickets
- Ski or Snowboard Gear
- Ski Clothes
- First Aid & Hygiene
1. Book Ski and Snowboard Lessons Early
Red River offers lessons for all ages and skill levels. Historically classes have limited availability and fill up fast. That’s why we recommend scheduling lessons as soon as you determine trip dates.
All lessons, including private lessons, must be reserved through the Red River Ski & Summer Area.
Book lessons online at redriverskiarea.com
redriverskiarea.com
2. Purchase Lift Tickets
Lift tickets are required for everyone planning to ski or snowboard, including those planning to take lessons. In contrast to other ski resorts, lift tickets at Red River very rarely sell out. However, purchasing lift tickets in advance online will provide you some cost savings compared to walk up prices.
Purchase lift tickets online at redriverskiarea.com
You can also take advantage of deals and discounts during certain times of the winter season.
Find information on deals and discounts online at redriverskiarea.com
400 Pioneer Road, Red River, NM
redriverskiarea.com
3. Pack or Rent Ski/Snowboard Gear
Here is a list of all the gear you will need to ski or snowboard:
-
- Skis or Snowboard with bindings
- Ski Boots or Snowboard Boots
- Ski Poles
- Goggles – (Remember to bring extra lenses for different weather conditions)
- Sunglasses
- Helmet
Rental Shops
If you do not have your own gear, there are multiple rental shops in Red River. We prefer to rent our gear from Sitzmark Sports because we are always impressed with the quality of their equipment as well as the excellent level of customer support they consistently provide. Sitzmark Sports also offers a 10% discount on all 2 or more day rentals that are reserved online at least 3 days in advance.
Here is a list of all the rental shops in Red River:
Sitzmark Sports
♥ Carson Cabin Favorite ♥
416 W. Main Street, Red River, NM
(575) 754-2526
sitzmarknm.com
Red River Ski & Summer Area
400 Pioneer Rd., Red River, NM
(575) 754-2223
redriverskiarea.com
Wild Bill’s Ski Shop
325 W. Main St., Red River, NM
(575) 754-2428
wildbillsski.com
4. Ski Clothes
Wearing appropriate clothing is critical to ensuring you have an enjoyable time on the slopes. For example, if you don’t have a waterproof jacket you will be uncomfortably cold and wet as soon as there is any precipitation.
Red River is also known for its quick changes in weather. It could be in the upper 30’s one day and then only reach negative temperatures the next day. This increases the need for layering your clothing on the slopes so that you can adjust as needed.
Here is a list of clothes to pack:
-
- Base Layers – should be moisture-wicking to ensure that your skin stays warm and comfortable
- Ski Socks – definitely worth the extra money. They won’t bunch and will keep you warmer than regular socks
- Neck Gaiter or Balaclava – will keep your neck and face protected from the elements
- Mid-layer – another layer that will keep you warm (hoodie, fleece jacket, light puffy jacket, etc.)
- Outerwear Ski Jacket or Coat – this is your core protection against the elements, so it needs to be completely waterproof and windproof.
- Snowboard / Ski Pants or Ski Bib – a must to protect your legs and keep them dry
- Gloves or Mittens – If you are someone that has naturally cold hands, we recommend mittens because keeping your fingers together will keep them warmer.
5. First Aid & Hygiene
-
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm (w/spf)
- Hand / toes warmers (we like the HotHands brand)
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
- Hairbrush
- Makeup
- Contacts/Glasses, contact solution, and case
- Extra contacts/glasses
- Lotion
- Deodorant
- Shaving products
- Nail Clippers
- Tweezers
- Pain reliever (Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc.)
Need a Place to Stay?
Carson Cabin is a 3-bedroom / 2-bathroom mountainside home located in the Upper Valley of Red River, just 10 minutes from town.
It is the perfect place to experience all the fun of a ski trip with the restaurants and shops in town, while still enjoying the peacefulness of a cabin the mountains.
Amenities
What We Offer
Mountain View
Backs up to the Carson National Forest and features views of the mountains across the Upper Red River Valley.
Fully Stocked Kitchen
Equipped with modern appliances, and stocked with everything you need to prepare your favorite mountain meals.
Firewood Provided
There is always plenty of wood to keep the warmth of a cozy fire burning in the living room fireplace.
Fast Internet
High-Speed Wi-Fi internet provides a reliably fast connection so that you won’t miss your favorite Netflix show.
Trailer Parking
In addition to driveway parking, the circle drive provides enough space for 3-4 vehicles or a trailer carrying all your favorite mountain toys.
Outdoor Grilling
Charcoal BBQ grill with a full set of grilling tools is provided.
Testimonials
What Guests are Saying

“Perfect family cabin”
"This cabin was just what we needed for our family. We enjoyed the fireplace and comfy living room furniture."
Tara R.

“Great location”
"...located in a great spot between town and access to other outdoor activities and trails."
Danny O.

“Beautiful cabin...”
"The cabin was very comfortable! Kitchen is very well stocked! Outside of town which makes it very peaceful!"
Debbie W.

"Quiet and relaxing"
"It was quiet and relaxing, you can hear the river from the outdoor area. The kitchen was well stocked with everything you could need."
Lena M.