January 2013 6
New Mexico
January is an enchanting month in New Mexico, with the beautiful mountains shrouded in glistening white snow. I will be talking about the state's many ski areas in this month's feature article. But I will tell you right now that a ski vacation in New Mexico will be remembered for years to come. Avoid the crowds and high prices of Vail and other Colorado top-destinations, and hit the trails at any of New Mexico's unique resorts. Of course, skiing is not the only winter activity in the Land of Enchantment. Hiking can be quite enjoyable in the southern part of the state, with average highs in the upper 50's. Visiting New Mexico's state and national parks is a fun activity any time of year, just be aware that blizzards sometimes blow through the northern part of the state. A heavy blizzard last winter caused several parks and roads to close down for a few days, and travel was difficult. But that is not very common, and I recommend a winter New Mexico vacation, one that will be talked about for a long time. January is a good month to go biking in the southern deserts, with cool temperatures and crisp, clean air. Many lakes around the state are closed for fishing, and those that aren't closed are generally slow for catching fish. Trout fishing in New Mexico's rivers and streams is generally fair. Ice fishing is popular on some New Mexico lakes in January, where anglers cut a small hole in a frozen lake and fish for trout beneath the ice. The New Mexico deer season has wrapped up for the most part, although bow-hunting in some districts is still open through mid-January. Javelina and Oryx seasons are also open in some districts. Head south to find several boating opportunities. Elephant Butte Lake near Truth or Consequences is the largest lake in the state, and has mild winter weather for boating. Many parks and some ski areas offer Snowshoeing trails. This can be a fun alternative to hiking in the winter.
If you are planning to camp in New Mexico, be prepared for cold nights, pretty much anywhere in the state. Always check weather forecasts before you camp.
Left: Canyon Lake in
Central Texas
Right: Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico