Ski Apache, Lincoln National Forest

Ski Apache, in southern New Mexico, on the slopes of Sierra Blanca mountains, is the southernmost major ski resort in the continental United States. It is owned and operated, since 1963, by the Mescalero Apache Tribe. Ski Apache was the only ski resort in New Mexico with its own gondola lift, until Taos Ski Valley obtained a gondola lift. Runs in the resort include Apache Bowl, an intermediate run on the upper west side of the mountain known for its wide, open space, and views from the top of Chairlift 6; Capitan, a steep, challenging pitch that drops 475 feet; and the Gondola Liftline, a steep and narrow advanced run that runs from the top of the mountain to the main lodge. Another run is Snow Park, which is known for being one of the most difficult beginner runs in the world, steeper than some "blue" runs at the resort. Ski Apache has eight lifts including one gondola lift, three quad chairlifts, and four triple chairlifts. The resort receives an average annual snowfall of fifteen feet. ()