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Ski Apache Scenic Gondola

Embark on a mesmerizing journey with the Ski Apache Gondola, where every ascent becomes a canvas of panoramic New Mexico beauty. Whether you’re a skiing enthusiast or simply seeking awe-inspiring vistas, our gondola promises an elevated experience near Ruidoso. 

The Ski Apache Gondola transforms your ascent into a scenic adventure like no other with a ride up to 11,500 ft. Stunning views of the Sierra Blanca Mountains elevates your next ski or summer trip.

Check below for the daily operational status of the gondola and for our pricing. Gondola hours may be affected by weather, please call us at 575-464-3600 for status or check your local weather report for details. Note there are no facilities at the top of the gondola so please plan accordingly.


Gondola Icon

Gondola Status

Open

Scenic Gondola Ticket Prices

Weekday Ticket Prices

ADULTCHILD 6 -12SENIOR 55 - 69SENIOR 70+MILITARY
Gondola Ride (5 and under ride FREE)$40 per ticket$30 per ticket$30 per ticket$20 per ticket$30 per ticket

Weekend Ticket Prices

ADULTCHILD 6 -12SENIOR 55 - 69SENIOR 70+MILITARY
Gondola Ride$40 per ticket$30 per ticket$30 per ticket$20 per ticket$30 per ticket

Holiday Ticket Prices

ADULTCHILD 6 -12SENIOR 55 - 69SENIOR 70+MILITARY
Gondola Ride (5 and under ride FREE)$50 per ticket$40 per ticket$40 per ticket$30 per ticket$40 per ticket

Tickets for the gondola must be purchased in person.


Ski Apache Gondola FAQs

Our gondola fits eight people.

Nope! Come on up to Ski Apache and buy a ticket for the gondola in person. The gondola runs weather permitting. You can call us at 575-464-3600 to check the current status.

A chair lift is a ski lift with open-air chairs suspended from a cable, allowing skiers and snowboarders to sit individually as they ascend the mountain. On the other hand, a gondola is an enclosed cabin or car suspended from a cable, offering protection from the weather as riders are seated inside. Gondolas can accommodate more passengers and may have the capacity to transport bikes or pedestrians along with skiers.

Inn of the Mountain Gods offers daily shuttle service to Ski Apache during the ski season. If you’re interested in staying at Inn of the Mountain Gods, please review the lodging options

To enter a ski gondola, approach the loading area and wait for the cabin to come to a complete stop. Once the cabin is stationary, open the door, typically located at the front or side, and enter the enclosed space. Take a seat inside the gondola, close the door securely. Unlike a chair lift, you will not ride off the Gondola, but wait till it stops to walk off.

The Ski Apache gondola is located approximately 15 miles southwest of Ruidoso, New Mexico. It takes about 30 minutes to drive from Ruidoso, New Mexico, to Ski Apache using NM-532 and Ski Run Road. Please check current road conditions and use a navigation app for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Yes, the Gondola operates in both winter and summer. Please check the hours of operation for any changes between winter and summer hours. 

The lift station is located just off of the parking lot to the left of the Petroglyph Cafe and Bar. For a map please visit our trail map page.

You’ll reach an elevation of 11,500 feet at the top of Ski Apache.

 
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