February 2013 6
New Mexico
February brings snow and cold temperatures to the Land of Enchantment. This means great skiing and snowboarding conditions. Visit one of New Mexico's many ski resorts for a day of fun on the trails. If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, head to Angel Fire and try the Vertical Drop. Many resorts offer Black Diamond trails for advanced skiers looking for steep runs with sharp curves. Although Bass fishing is slow this month, Trout can be hooked in lakes and streams, especially in the southern half of the state. Some lakes are beginning to freeze, making ice fishing possible, most notably Eagle Nest Lake northeast of Angel Fire. Boating can be quite pleasant in southern New Mexico, where many boat ramps are open through the winter. Snowshoeing is a fun alternative to hiking in the mountains this time of year. There are designated snowshoe trails in the mountains of New Mexico, or you can hit the backcountry and blaze your own paths through the pristine woods. Hiking is possible on public lands that receive less snowfall than the mountains. A February hike can be a lovely way to spend a Saturday afternoon, just be prepared for cool temperatures.
Ibex can be hunted in the Florida
Mountains starting Feb 21, and Oryx,
Javelina and Barbary Sheep can be
bagged in some districts.
Hunting seasons can be found here:
http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/publications/
documents/rib/2013/2013bg_rib_spread.pdf
Birdwatching for the state's winter
species is a fun outdoor activity, and
why not camp in one of New Mexico's
warmer-weather State Parks?
Left: Texas
Right: Winter In
New Mexico
Skiing at Valles Caldera National Preserve
-Don J. Unser