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I remember a summer visit to Phoenix one year. When the friend I was visiting asked me wanted I wanted to do most I said, “Find 73 degrees!” And you know what? We did! We took a day trip up to Flagstaff, AZ and rode the ski lift up to the top of Humphreys Peak at the Arizona Snow Bowl and it was awesomely amazing. The view, the peaceful quiet trip up the mountain at treetop height. It was so serene and beautiful. And no 120 degrees like the ol’ Valley of The Sun there down in Maricopa County!! So here’s my suggestion for all you Texans sweltering in the heat this summer, when making your travel plans, why not include a stop where there’s a ski lift? New Mexico is a day away and has more than a couple you can ride during the summertime!
The closest to us here in Texas (I think) is Sandia Peak in Albuquerque, NM. Albuquerque of course is that famous place Bugs Bunny should have turned left and is located on I-40 in north/central NM. The ski lifts at Sandia Peak can be reached either by taking the tram, which is an awesome very steep cable car ride with stations at the ski resort above and the tram station below, or you can drive up to the ski area. The tram ride is a beautiful scenic trip, and about $25 for an incredibly unique view, but if you prefer your own wheels or have a thing about heights, then the drive is just as scenic…but at a different angle. Round trip lift tickets to the top and back are only $12 and it’s a great feeling.
Also available in New Mexico are the chair lifts at the ski areas around the Taos area, ie Red River, Angel Fire, Taos Ski Valley, etc. These are located north of Santa Fe and are located in and around Highway 64. Remember to pack a jacket!!
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