Angel Fire - Beyond the Snow!

In the very heart of New Mexico, between the high peaks and lush forests of Colfax County, lies Angel Fire and its resort. There are five hundred acres of superb skiing terrain, climbing up to over three kilometres above sea level.

The town is primarily a skiing centre but offers so much more, for all the family. Here we explore the options available off piste and outside of winter.  Whether your passion is for hiking, golf, climbing, historical sites, music or pure relaxation, Angel Fire has a vast range of options.

Once the skiiers and snowboarders have left and the snows receded, Angel Fire is a tiny village with only around 1,000 residents. Yet it enjoys balmy, manageable temperatures in the mid twenty degrees centigrade throughout the summer months. There is low humidity and very few midges - making activities like fishing and wildlife walks so much more enjoyable.

Angel Fire lies within moments of Highway 64 and the 'Enchanted Circle' - a scenic byway that circumnavigates the region for eighty-five miles. This is a 'must do' driving trip when the weather is fine. Taking in Eagle Nest, Red River, Questa, the ski valley of Taos and back to Angel fire, its a fantastic, breathtaking drive. Pass through forests of pine and aspen, New Mexico's unique mesas, valleys and mountains and enjoy breathtaking  views of the state's highest peaks.

Another road trip well worth an excursion from Angel Fire is the 'Southern Circle'. This is less popular but no less dramatic than the first route. It takes in the changing scenery from the Sangre de Cristo mountains to the high deserts in the south, then back again. It's a day trip and takes in Coyote Creek State Park - just seventeen miles south of the village and worth a shorter drive and stop too. There are churches, ski resorts and acres of raspberry farms to take in %u2026 such contrast in such a short journey!

In the summer, Angel Fire transforms itself for two weeks from winter sports paradise to cultural centre. Music From Angel Fire, at the end of August, is the first and only chamber music festival in New Mexico. Superb artists from around the world come to this small village to entertain those who flock here for the event. Fifteen concerts take place and there is an emphasis on family entertainment and outreach to children and young people.

Just a mile down Highway 434 is the only national memorial to the soldiers who served in Vietnam. It's a state park dedicated to the veterans; the only one in the USA. It is poignant and in a beautiful location and was set here as a tribute to one of the fallen who came from Angel Fire. This is an emotional place to visit, with a chapel, sculptures, gardens and peaceful views. A visitors centre and a plaque commemorating all those from New Mexico who died help explain the state's contribution to the war.

If you want to take to the skies, Angel Fire has its own airport to the north for private charters. Nothing can beat the views of New Mexico's fertile forests and the highest mountain of Wheeler Peak - rising up to its snowy summit at 13,161 feet. Within the village itself you can take advantage of the equipment left behind by the skiers. The chairlifts take you to the top of Agua Fira Peak in the warmth, to take in the expansive views from the top. Take the opportunity to take in this beautiful little valley full of so much more than winter sports activities.