SAM Magazine—Los Alamos, N.M., Nov. 13, 2024—A “monster” early-season storm allowed Pajarito Mountain to open five weeks ahead of schedule last weekend on Nov. 9. 

“This is historic for Pajarito Mountain,” said general manager Jasen Bellomy. “It’s been about 40 years since Pajarito has been able to open before Thanksgiving.” 

The mountain, located 30 minutes northwest of Santa Fe, received 29 inches of snow in 72 hours last week, allowing it to drop ropes well ahead of its scheduled Dec. 13 opening date.

Bellomy described it as “an amazing way to kick off our ski season at the Little Bird.” 

An additional 15 inches of snow puts the ski area at a season total of 44 inches going into its second weekend of operations this Friday, with 46 of 55 trails open for skiing and riding.

It is open for Friday-Sunday operations until Dec. 15, with daily operations slated to begin Dec. 20.

Pajarito is one of several Mountain Capital Partners resorts to open early for the season, including Brian Head, Utah, Lee Canyon, Nev., and Arizona Snowbowl. It was the first ski area in New Mexico to open for lift served skiing and riding.