Essential AdviceThere are many and varied ways to enjoy a visit to the Enchanted Forest. It's Enchanted, All Right
- The Enchanted Forest offers 24 kilometers of trails, groomed for freestyle and classic skiing.
- Winding through 400 acres of the Carson National Forest, trails offer many spectacular views.
- Wildlife is a regular feature on the trails. While we were skiing we saw a group of deer cross the trail only a few yards from us. Other skiers have seen eagles, snowshoe hare and elk.
How is it Different from Snowshoeing and Downhill?
- The key to cross-country skiing is the glide. Even though we both ski, taking a cross-country ski lesson improved our technique, making it easier and more fun to hit the trails.
- Because boots are lighter and only the toe is attached to the ski, the downhill stretches are especially challenging. The traditional beginner's skier wedge works well for slowing down in cross-country skiing.
- You can also try telemark turns, where the uphill leg bends and pulls the uphill ski behind the downhill ski. A lesson is the best way to learn these turns.
Special Events at the Enchanted Forest
- On Christmas night, luminaria light up the forest for the ski area's Luminaria Ski Tour.
- Snowshoe Headlamp Tours are popular nighttime activities. Call the ski area for dates and times.
- Usually held in February, the Just Desserts Eat & Ski is the Enchanted Forest's most popular event. Ski to different sites in the forest, where local restaurants reward you for your effort with their best desserts.
What to Wear
- Downhill ski clothing is fine for first-time cross-country skiers but is generally too heavy. Go for lighter layers, like a vest or sweater on top.
- Hat, gloves, sunglasses and sunscreen are all essential for cross-country skiing.
- Ideal fabrics will retain warmth even when wet, and will wick moisture away from your skin. Polartec fleece and Capilene underlayers are perfect.
- Layers are essential for cross-country skiing since a skier will alternately warm up on the uphill climbs, and cool down when resting or skiing the downhill stretches.
- Avoid cotton since it retains moisture and won't keep you warm when wet.
Contact Information
Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area
PO Box 219
Red River, NM 87558
505-754-2374
800-966-9381
www.enchantedforestxc.com
Lodging information: 800-348-6444
Directions: Located 3.5 miles from Red River, NM just below the summit of Bobcat Pass on Highway 38 in Carson National Forest | 
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