Winter Tubing & Mountain Coaster at Ruidoso Winter Park
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels including families with young children; minimal physical exertion required due to magic carpet lifts.
Overview
Experience thrilling snow tubing and mountain coaster rides at Ruidoso Winter Park in Cloudcroft, NM. Perfect for families seeking winter fun with both fast chutes and scenic forest views.
Details
Ruidoso Winter Park, located in the scenic mountain village of Cloudcroft, New Mexico, offers an exhilarating winter adventure experience tailored to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This vibrant winter park lives up to its reputation as one of southern New Mexico’s premier destinations for snow tubing, zip lining, and mountain coaster rides. Surrounded by towering pine trees and the crisp mountain air, visitors can enjoy multiple sliding lanes designed for different speed levels, including a special toddler chute that caters to younger guests.
Cloudcroft sits at an elevation that allows the park to maintain a snowy landscape even when temperatures hover around a mild 55 degrees, creating an accessible and enjoyable winter playground without the bitter cold found further north. Ruidoso Winter Park’s standout feature is its wide variety of snow activities; the mountain coaster adds a thrilling twist by offering a gravity-powered ride down the mountain that complements the classic snow tubing. The park is family-friendly and well-organized, including a magic carpet lift that transports tubing guests up the hill, minimizing fatigue and maximizing fun.
What truly makes Ruidoso Winter Park unique in this region is its combination of natural beauty with winter entertainment, plus amenities like food trucks and ample free parking. The park’s layout balances scenic forest views with multiple runs that prevent overcrowding, although popular times can see long lines. Seasonal mountain air mixed with snow-capped pines and fun-filled activity lanes provides an outdoor experience that appeals to varied ages and interests. Visitors will find the winter activities refreshing and memorable, making Ruidoso Winter Park a distinctive highlight of Cloudcroft and the surrounding Sacramento Mountains area.
Trail Tips
Arrive Early to Beat the Crowds
Lines can get very long, especially on weekends and holidays, so plan to arrive before the park opens for the best experience.
Use the Magic Carpet Lift
Save energy by taking advantage of the magic carpet lift that transports you up the tubing slopes quickly and efficiently.
Dress in Layers
Even on mild days, temperatures can be chilly; bring moisture-wicking layers and waterproof outerwear to stay warm and dry.
Bring Cash for Food Trucks
The park features several food trucks with great winter snacks, but many vendors prefer cash payments.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Quiet picnic areas among pine groves
- Scenic viewpoint overlooking the Sacramento Mountains
Wildlife
- Mule deer
- Red-tailed hawks
History
Cloudcroft was established as a mountain resort town in the early 1900s and has long served as a summer retreat, with winter activities gaining popularity more recently.
Conservation
Ruidoso Winter Park promotes sustainable tourism by managing natural snow areas carefully and minimizing environmental impact through controlled usage and maintenance of trails.
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Top of the tubing hill
- Near the mountain coaster station
- Forest clearings close to the slides
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Winter Jacket
Keeps you warm and dry while enjoying snow activities.
winter specific
Gloves or Mittens
Protect your hands from cold and snow for comfortable tubing.
winter specific
Snow Boots
Ensures traction and warmth when walking on icy or snowy ground.
winter specific
Sunglasses
Reduces glare from snow for clear vision and eye protection.
winter specific