Angel Fire Visitor Guide Winter/Spring 2023

YOUR FAMILY’S FIRST

Angel Fire Resort, nestled in the southern Rocky Mountains, is New Mexico’s True Family Resort. Everything you need for your winter vacation; great lodging options, dining for all tastes, and all the activities, skiing, snowboarding, sledding, tubing, sleigh rides and friendly snowball fights all at your Family’s First Resort.

Angel Fire Resort, nestled in the southern Rocky Mountains, is New Mexico’s True Family Resort. Everything you need for your winter vacation; great lodging options, dining for all tastes, and all the activities, skiing, snowboarding, sledding, tubing, sleigh rides and friendly snowball fights all at your Family’s First Resort.

Call our professional travel planners to book your Angel Fire Family Vacation Today. angelfireresort.com | 800-633-7463

Call our professional travel planners to book your Angel Fire Family Vacation Today. angelfireresort.com | 800-633-7463

Lisa Sutton

Global Luxury Certied Agent

CELL: 505.603.0525 | Lisa.sutton@cbmp.com | angelfire.realestate

EXTREME LUXURY

MLS 103397

EXTREME LUXURY

EXTREME LUXURY

MLS 103397

VIEWS FROM THE TOP OF THE WORLD!

VIEWS FROM THE TOP OF THE WORLD!

157 Mertz Pl, Angel Fire NM - $9,000,000

157 Mertz Pl, Angel Fire NM - $9,000,000

MLS 103397

MLS 103397

MLS 103397

VIEWS FROM THE TOP OF THE WORLD!

MLS 107247

MLS 107247

157 Mertz Pl, Angel Fire NM - $9,000,000

157 Mertz Pl, Angel Fire NM - $9,000,000

Los Cielos Ranch is a luxury recreational retreat.The entry living area of this log timber home has massive vaulted ceilings highlighted with spectacular views of the Pecos Wilderness to Wheeler Peak, plus two rock replaces.The gourmet kitchen has sub- zero appliances and a sitting area with its own replace.

Los Cielos Ranch is a luxury recreational retreat.The entry living area of this log timber home has massive vaulted ceilings highlighted with spectacular views of the Pecos Wilderness to Wheeler Peak, plus two rock replaces.The gourmet kitchen has sub- zero appliances and a sitting area with its own replace.

Los Cielos Ranch is a luxury recreational retreat.The entry living area of this log timber home has massive vaulted ceilings highlighted with spectacular views of the Pecos Wilderness to Wheeler Peak, plus two rock replaces.The gourmet kitchen has sub- zero appliances and a sitting area with its own replace.

157 Mertz Pl,

Los Cielos Ranch is a luxury recreational retreat.The entry living area of this log timber home has massive vaulted ceilings highlighted with spectacular views of the Pecos Wilderness to Wheeler Peak, plus two rock replaces.The gourmet kitchen has sub- zero appliances and a sitting area with its own replace.

VIEWS FROM THE TOP OF THE WORLD!

MLS 107247

MLS 108955

CLOSE TO THE SLOPES!

MLS 108955

30 Alta Rd, Angel Fire NM - $850,000

30 Alta Rd, Angel Fire NM - $850,000

MLS 108955

MLS 108955

30 Alta Rd, Angel Fire NM - $850,000

30 Alta Rd, Angel Fire NM - $850,000

Conveniently located next to Angel Fire Resort with some of the best views. This 4 bedroom 4.5 bath home has plenty of space including a dining area, two living areas, and 3 master suites.The living room features a wood stove and a dramatic wall of windows looking out to the ski mountain.

Conveniently located next to Angel Fire Resort with some of the best views. This 4 bedroom 4.5 bath home has plenty of space including a dining area, two living areas, and 3 master suites.The living room features a wood stove and a dramatic wall of windows looking out to the ski mountain.

Conveniently located next to Angel Fire Resort with some of the best views. This 4 bedroom 4.5 bath home has plenty of space including a dining area, two living areas, and 3 master suites.The living room features a wood stove and a dramatic wall of windows looking out to the ski mountain.

Conveniently located next to Angel Fire Resort with some of the best views. This 4 bedroom 4.5 bath home has plenty of space including a dining area, two living areas, and 3 master suites.The living room features a wood stove and a dramatic wall of windows looking out to the ski mountain.

Call Lisa Today!

Call Lisa Today!

Call Lisa Today!

CELL: 505.603.0525

505.603.0525

angelfire.realestate

Luxury Mountain Condos

THAT DON’T BREAK THE BANK.

The Grande at Angel Fire

The Grande

Because

in a

represents a donor’s legacy and dream for positive change.

Welcome to Angel Fire,

We warmly welcome you to our serene little village in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Winter is magical in the mountains. The majestic landscapes, easy-access hiking trails, awesome outdoor activities and the tremendous sense of being so close to the sky, you can almost touch the stars! The snow even glistens as if glittering!

Make yourself at home, allow Angel Fire to be your breath of fresh air, whether your plans include constant activity or rest and relaxation.

While you are here be sure to visit our shops, food carts and restaurants, the majority are locally owned and operated. They are sure to become your favorite stops. Be prepared to never want to leave!

Jo Mixon

Enchanted Circle forests open and more enchanting

When the Carson National Forest opened Forest Road 76 back up in the middle of September, allowing access to 75,000 acres of the forests, everyone was anxious to see

what they had done.

Just a little background— when the Hermits Peak prescribed burn began April 8, 2022, access to the forests was not recommended. When the Hermits Peak fire merged

with the reignited Calf Canyon prescribed burn on April 21st, the fires made a run to the northeast. Santa Fe, Carson and Cibola National Forests were closed.

A level-one fire suppres-

sion team was brought in to make sure it did not spread much beyond where it was. The fire was 45 miles north to south and 20 miles east to west. Sustained critical fire conditions were not

helping. It was no longer just a fight to put the fire out but to build containment lines to restrict its growth.

Forest Road 76, the Black Lake entry to the Carson National Forest was drafted. FR 76 is 35.5 miles long from Hwy 434 at milemarker 30 over to Tres Ritos on Hwy 518. Up to this point it was for most of us Black Lake residents a single lane recreational road for four wheel drives, ATVs, snowmobiles, mountain bikes, hikers and hunters.

When it reopened, it had been repurposed as a fire break. The road was widened, made more serviceable for large fire vehicles and dozers, and the dense forest around it thinned or feathered to let in light and new growth. The dead and dying trees were downed and hauled out to locations where the residents who depend on the national forest could get them for winter firewood.

It is beautiful. There are places to pull off and take photos of the valley vistas now visible through the aspen forests which it had been hard to see behind the cloaking ponderosa pines which have now been removed.

Climate change contributed to this, the biggest fire in New Mexico history. Replanting is being done based on the new climate. And FR 76 is part of the new plan for a sustainable future.

NANCY BURCH offers adventure for all ages

up to 50 horses, plus a group of retirees.

“We keep them for their entire lifespan,” she notes, “They’re like family … I couldn’t have done this without the help of all my friends who have made this possible.”

Burch herself is a testament to the benefits of the great outdoors she opens to high country visitors. Sitting tall and competent, she rides every day, catches horses and throws saddles; she says outdoor adventure companies have really blossomed since people realized during pandemic lockdown how being with horses and outside is so good for the mind, body and soul.

Dashing through the snow in a one-horse open sleigh is just one adventure offered by Nancy Burch’s Roadrunner Tours. While most outfitters only ride May through September, Nancy Burch’s tours are yearround.

“Horseriding in the winter is wonderful,” Burch says about her adventuring operation she started in Angel Fire some 40 years ago. “It’s really beautiful.”

Nancy Burch’s Roadrunner Tours offers horseback riding lessons and guided tours  from 1-hour to all-day.

“We offer horse-drawn  carriage and chuck wagon rides, and romantic wedding-day and wedding engagement carriage rides in Northern New Mexico,” she explains.

Hailing from the East Coast back in 1975 where she majored in special ed, physical ed and health, she says she fell in love with the Rocky Mountains.

“I liked Colorado, but I love New Mexico.” Hence her choice of Angel Fire for her tours, ranching and cabin lodging. Starting with four horses in 1985 she now has

Her operation spans 15 acres and includes horses, turkeys, chickens, dogs, a mini mule, a tamed wild burro — who loves kids she says; plus they prep future cowgirls and cowboys who come back and see her — all a natural extension of nearly a decade she spent in Northern New Mexico land sales and as the Angel Fire Resort Summer Program Director.

The famed rivers, forests and fields of Angel Fire and the Enchanted Circle stun our senses with beauty and joy — exactly what Nancy Burch’s Roadrunner Tours specialize in.

Even in deep fresh snow, the trails are pounded solid by Burch’s draft horses — horses that also can be ridden, who pack down the snow, but who Nancy Burch says are gentle enough for a young mom and kids. “They’re very kind, gentle animals,” Burch says, adding, too, they are also perfect rides for big burly men.

“So, if you’re ready for the ultimate City Slickers Western adventure,” Nancy Burch says with an excited twinkle in her soft blue eyes, “consider an overnight camping excursion for families and groups. Many tours include meals at the Headquarter’s Camp Fire Cafe or a Western-style chuckwagon meal along the trail.”

A must-do in every season — especially winter!

Angel Fire’s new Family-Friendliest Season

New Mexico ski resort broadens activities for all winter enthusiasts

Angel Fire Resort, a Northern New Mexico premier family vacation destination, announced opening day is Dec. 16 for the 2022-2023 ski season, through March 19, 2023.

Known as one of the “Best Family Ski Resorts in North America,” the resort now has upgraded, energy efficient snowmaking equipment that works better in marginal conditions, allowing snowmaking earlier in the season.

“We had an unbelievable turnout this summer and fall and we’re really looking forward to our winter season,” said Greg Ralph, resort director of marketing. “While we love we are known as the most family-friendly ski destination in the Southwest, we’re seeing an increase in families coming to Angel Fire to simply enjoy time in the snow.”

Expanded Winter Activities For Everyone

“Along with skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and night skiing, we’re also creating fun, interactive, entertainment opportunities for families and couples. One of our newest and most popular off-mountain activities are the seasonal evening snowshoe hikes with stargazing-guided tours. We’re always adding new activities at the resort,” Ralph said.

The family-friendly resort hosts a rotating series of “snow-play activities” at

ball fights for kids. The popular new Zia base bar will serve smores and hot chocolate. There are also firepits and chairs added at the base for families to enjoy. Additional non-skiing activities include:

A 2-lane tubing hill; an old-fashioned sledding hill; and an increase in après-hour activities for both kids and couples.

classes, whiskey tastings, cooking demonstrations for couples, and themed crafts and game nights for kids. Several live musical entertainment performances are also being scheduled throughout venues at the resort.

The resort also works with local outfitters for horse-drawn sleigh rides, expanded cross-country skiing trails/tours, and snowmobile tours within the Enchanted Circle.

Handcrafted Education in

“Every single teacher took an interest in our son.”

— Ian Buchannan, MVHS Parent

“Seminar allows us to build life skills and understand other points of view.”—Ember Grassmick, MVHS Graduate

“I like the dress code. I can express myself.” — Nadia Hicks, MVHS Senior

“I love the Senior Capstone Project. It’s so inspiring.” — Matthew Mitchell, Former Governing Council President

“

“Our school is a LAB. We explore, think, and learn alongside our students.”— Beth Tafoya, Teacher

Ice Fishing: Fun for the whole

family

Believe it or not, ice fishing is growing in popularity in Northern New Mexico. All you need to do is research and plan just for the right conditions.

Eagle Nest Lake is a popular ice fishing spot about 45 minutes from Taos. Be sure to call ahead and make sure the lake is open for fishing before you make the drive.

When you call, ask the park service for any guidance they can provide for safety on the ice and

picking a good spot.

“Eagle Nest Lake is probably the most popular ice fishing lake in New Mexico,” said Eric Frey, the sport fish program manager for the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. He also said “this 2,200-acre lake sits at 8,300 feet in elevation, has stunning mountain views and usually freezes hard enough every year to entertain ice fishermen.”

The lake is full of rainbow trout, northern pike, yellow perch and kokanee salmon. Anglers say PowerBait, corn and jigs work best to get the fish biting.

So here are some things to remember, after you get your fishing license.

Remember to wear layers! New Mexico can get chilly. Temperatures can fluctuate, and since we’re at a high altitude and closer to the sun, don’t forget the sunscreen and sun protection like hats and

long sleeves. Always check the forecasts before you plan your trip. It’s wise to bring blankets just in case it gets extra chilly.

Bring good gear. If you are new to ice fishing and don’t have a seasoned expert going with you, hire a local guide and ask them to help you select an ice fishing rod. There are options for every

budget. That includes some kind of seating. Also, if you can, bring a hand auger and ice scoop and a sled to haul your gear.

Make sure to do your research on bait. For ice fishing, there are many options from a basic ice jig tipped with wax worms and salmon eggs to moonshine silver minnows that glow in the

dark. Google it thoroughly ahead of time.

It’s also a good idea to bring some type of shelter. There are plenty of options in every price range.

Don’t forget snacks and water bottles — bring more than enough for the whole gang.

Good luck on your ice fishing adventure.

Dining

Fab Food in Angel Fire

Is it a food cart or a food truck?

In the last five years there has been a nationwide boom in the popularity of street food, and consequently, mobile food vendors. Food carts and food trucks have outpaced the broader food services sector across the nation. Low start up and operational costs, as well as fewer employees, are

just a few of the reasons given. A food cart requires one employee and generally two required for a food truck. Angel Fire has gone from just one street food vendor six years ago to five now. Six come spring. No need to rent and renovate a building. Just find a spot with an agreeable owner and park.

First came Jeanette’s Jeanette’s Cafe (pictured right) was the first food truck  in Angel Fire. It seemed as natural as an off-spring of her Specialty Foods and Catering business — most owners of food trucks also cater.

Six years later Jeanette’s truck moved to Frontier Park at 3467 Mountain

View Road. She was well-situated for Angel Fire Resort activities at the park.

Then Thai Angel and Mountain Magnolia

In the last couple months she has been joined by Thai Angel and Mountain Magnolia food trucks. Rumor has it this summer there will be a smoked barbecue truck at the park too. Meanwhile everyone is decorating their space with awnings and tables. You cannot eat-in but there are places to eat-out.

Then Arias Taqueria and 1810 Grill

Two other mobile food trucks are also in Angel Fire. Arias Taqueria takes up one corner of the Mountain Supply parking lot and 1810 Grill is a resident of the Alpine Lumber parking lot. Very convenient for your trips to the hardware store. All have ample parking and take phone orders for your convenience. They provide alternatives to cash for payment. Meanwhile the debate goes on as to cart or truck. New Mexico makes no distinction on licensing. All have to comply with food service regulations of any restaurant. Generally it is believed in other parts of the country that carts are not motorized and trucks are. Not up for debate by patrons is that the best street food is prepared in the truck it is served from. Which food truck is best is a very lively debate among locals at the moment. All will be open this winter.

Arias Taqueria

Mexican Food Truck

Mountain Supply parking lot, 3429 Mountain View Blvd. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. six days a week; Closed Sundays. 505-692-9511

Jeanette’s Café Specialty Foods & Catering

Frontier Park, 3367 Mountain View Blvd. Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Closed Sun.-Mon. 505-504-1871

Frontier Park, 3367 Mountain View Blvd. Thurs.-Mon. 11:30 a.m6 p.m.; Closed Tues.-Wed. 303-927-9146

Thai Angel

Frontier Park, 3367 Mountain View Blvd. Wed.-Mon. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.;

Closed Tues. No phone orders at this time.

1810 Grill Brunch and Lunch Truck

Alpine Lumber Parking Lot, 3433 Mountain View Blvd. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. daily; Sun. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Closed Sat. 505-376-0406

Best-Ever Winter Wonders

2022-2023 Winter/Spring Calendar of

Events

Sundays-Mondays. Closed New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Shuter Library, 11 N Bill Burgess Blvd; 575-377-6755, shuterlibrary.net.

12 Days of Christmas Chamber Raffle

Daily drawings: Dec. 9 through Dec. 20, with a $1,000 Grand Prize on the last day. Tickets $10 for one or $20 for three, available at Angel Fire Chamber, 3407 Mountain View Blvd., 575- 377-6353, angelfirechamber.org.

Opening Day

Dec. 16 – Angel Fire Resort

– Ski & Snowboard Winter Season, 10 Miller Lane, Angel

with Santa

Dec. 25 – Santa will be on the mountain on Christmas Day from 10:00am – 2:00pm, bring your camera to catch Santa on the snow and maybe Mrs. Santa, at Angel Fire Resort.

Christmas Day Santa’s Helpers Scavenger Hunt

Dec. 25 – Hunt high and low for Christmas delights. Details to be announced. Info at 800-633-7463 or angelfireresort.com.

New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade

Dec. 31 – Ring out the old year this evening with torchlights being skied down the mountain by Angel Fire Resort

Ice Fishing Tournament

Saturday, Jan. 28 – Registration 6 - 11 a.m.; measurement 2 p.m. at Eagle Nest Lake State Park Visitor Center. Prizes awarded for “Biggest Fish” in each of four categories. The fishing is phenomenal because area lakes closed for COVID, fires and other events. All stocking went to Eagle Nest Lake so the fishing is the best in the Southwest! Eagle Nest Lake State Park Visitor Center, 575-377-1594.

Moonlight Snowshoe Hikes

January/February 2023 –

Angel Fire Country Club, Angel Fire Resort Nordic Skiing Center. Operations are depen-

Valentine’s Day Moonlight Snowshoe & Dinner

Feb. 14 – At Elements. Sweet hearts and lovers gather for a fabulous moonlit hike and dinner at Angel Fire Resort, 10 Miller Lane. Info at 800-6337463 or angelfireresort.com.

Mardi Gras Ball

Monday, Feb. 20 – 6-10 p.m. Shuter Library annual fundraiser at Elements, Angel Fire Country Club. Tickets $55 per person. Future plans include expanding programming to teach Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math skills to all ages. Check out shuterlibrary.net or Facebook.

Mardi Gras Ball Highlights:

March 4-11 – Angel Fire Resort. Students head for the hills for college spring break and Angel Fire is one of their fave places to celebrate! Info at 800-633-7463 or angelfireresort.com.

St Patrick’s Day Scavenger Hunt

March 17 – Find the clues and have a blast during St. Patty’s Day snowy hunt. Angel Fire Resort, 11 Miller Lane, Angel Fire. Info at 800-633-7463 or angelfireresort.com.

Closing Day

March 19 – Angel Fire Resort’s Ski & Snowboard Mountain Activities. Info at 800-633-7463 or angelfireresort.com.

This calendar of events was just being finalized at press time. For complete information, contact the event producers, call the Angel Fire Chamber of Commerce, 505-377-6353 for information; or visit angelfireresort.com.