Ruidoso vacation rentals

Taking its name from the Rio Ruidoso, which translates from Spanish as “noisy river,” this New Mexican village among the pines is quite the opposite: peaceful and abundant in natural beauty. Originally settled by the Mescalero Apaches — the reservation is nestled under the majestic Sierra Blanca Peak — Ruidoso is small in size and big in spirit. Although it’s a sought-after spot for winter sports, there’s plenty to occupy active visitors away from the slopes, from mountain golf courses with vistas to remember to non-profit yoga studios, from an epic zipline to high-octane cycling trails. Sitting between Alamogordo and Roswell, Ruidoso is a handy jumping-off point for adventures all over New Mexico. Spend an afternoon winding your way around the multiple local wineries and tap rooms. For those staying in town, Hubbard Museum of the American West provides an insight into local history with a collection of Native American pieces.

With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, sun protection is a must in Ruidoso, even as the skiers and boarders head to the slopes for another action-packed winter season. Springtime brings pleasant temperatures and the start of the new year’s floral displays. If you’re not here for the powder, staying in Ruidoso cabins is recommended in the summer, with late July’s Ruidoso Art Festival gathering over 100 artists and their work, from acrylics to glass. When the temperatures start to rise, locals and visitors alike hitch a sunset gondola ride to the summit of Sierra Blanca to look out over Lincoln National Forest. If you’re looking for a way to cool off, make your way to Grindstone Lake for a stint at Wibit Water Park — catch the inflatable fun from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Hondo Iris Farm and Gallery

A half hour drive from town lies Hondo Iris Farm and Gallery, home to a hummingbird porch, a picnic area, and an explosion of color throughout the month of May. Hundreds of iris varieties create a patchwork of vibrant flora in the gardens, carefully tended by New Mexico artist Alice Warder Seely.

Ski Apache

Located on the slopes of the Sierra Blanca Mountains, Ski Apache is a popular ski and snowboard resort with a variety of terrain for all levels. Having opened its doors — or slopes — in 1963, this Mescalero Apache Tribe-owned and run operation also has plenty to entice the adventurous once the snow has melted, with one of the longest ziplines in the world.

Spencer Theater for the Performing Arts

Less than 20 minutes from Ruidoso, the Spencer Theater for the Performing Arts boasts striking angular architecture contrasting with its rural New Mexico surroundings, as well as a non-profit ethos. Head here for a variety of artistic, theater, and dance events, from touring Broadway shows to thought-provoking art installations.