Experience winter backcountry comfort at the Little John 16-Foot Yurt by Enchanted Forest XC Ski Area in Red River, NM. A cozy, self-sufficient base camp perfect for snowy trail adventures.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
Overnight stays
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to ski or snowshoe with gear to the yurt.
Wildlife
History
The Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area has operated since the early 1980s, fostering New Mexico’s winter outdoor community.
Conservation
The area promotes low-impact recreation and encourages guests to pack out all waste and minimize their footprint on the fragile alpine environment.
Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area
Experience winter backcountry comfort at the Little John 16-Foot Yurt by Enchanted Forest XC Ski Area in Red River, NM. A cozy, self-sufficient base camp perfect for snowy trail adventures.
Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area operates in Red River, New Mexico, offering hike‑in yurt stays and seasonal equipment rentals for visitors seeking outdoor overnight experiences. The operation lists multiple hike‑in camping yurts by name and size, including the Glade 20‑foot, Latir 20‑foot, Long John 20‑foot, Little John 16‑foot, and the Midway 24‑foot yurt. Winter‑specific options are noted, including Little John 16‑Foot (Winter), Latir 20‑Foot (Winter), and a Glade 20‑Foot 'Dog Friendly' Yurt (Winter). Midway’s 24‑foot yurt is presented as an upscale option that accommodates up to 8 people, equipped with a wood stove, basic kitchen amenities, and views of Wheeler Peak.
Beyond yurts, the business provides equipment rentals and seasonal programming. Bike rentals include KHS 4‑Season Fat Bikes for adults and KHS Raptor mountain bikes for kids through a partnership with Sitzmark Sports & Lodging. Nordic walking pole rentals feature adjustable Exel poles with glove‑style straps. Additional available items include queen sleeping bag and liner rentals. The site also lists seasonal events such as Luminaria Ski & Snowshoe.
All listings emphasize hike‑in access and self‑propelled arrival by hiking or biking where applicable. The combination of named yurt options, winter variants, and partnered bike rentals supports trip planning for visitors to Red River. Availability and seasonality vary; check specific listings for dates, capacities, and rental policies before booking for real‑time updates today.
Location
Red River, NM
At Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area
Yurt Sizes
16–24 ft
Multiple hike‑in camping yurt options
Bike Rentals
KHS Fat Bikes
Partnered with Sitzmark Sports & Lodging
Gear Rentals
Poles & Bags
Exel poles and queen sleeping bags
Check availability and book hike‑in yurt stays, winter yurt options, or reserve bikes and Nordic gear for an Enchanted Forest outdoor escape.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures inside the yurt can be warm near the stove but drop quickly at night; layered clothing ensures comfort.
Pack Light for the Trek
Keep gear compact to fit in the sled or pulk provided; unnecessary items add strain when skiing or snowshoeing in.
Bring Water or Know How to Melt Snow
Winter water supply relies on melting snow, so bring filtered water or plan to melt and purify snow safely.
Fire Safety Inside the Yurt
Only use the wood stove provided and follow all fire instructions to avoid accidents in the confined space.
0º or Lower Sleeping Bag
Critical for warmth inside the yurt during cold winter nights.
winter
Cross Country Skis or Snowshoes
Needed to reach the yurt through snowy terrain.
winter
Portable Headlamp or Lantern
Provides hands-free light inside and outside the yurt after dark.
winter
Fire-Resistant Gloves
Helps safely manage the wood stove and firewood.
winter