High Altitude Recreation
Los Alamos is home to Pajarito Ski Mountain, the top-notch Larry Walkup Aquatic Center, a scenic, high altitude golf course, a community skating rink, an urban trail system that connects to adjacent National Forest trails, and is adjacent to Bandelier National Monument, Jemez National Recreation Area, and the Valles Caldera National Preserve. Los Alamos is the eastern terminus of the Jemez Mountains National Scenic Byway. The San Pedro Parks Wilderness (average altitude above 10,000 feet) and the Dome Wilderness are nearby. Los Alamos hosts many outdoor sporting events each year including Tour de Los Alamos (bicycle road race), the Run the Caldera Marathon, the Pajarito Punishment (mountain bike race), the Jemez Mountain Trail Runs, the Los Alamos Triathlon, golf tournaments, and other sporting tournaments.
Los Alamos Trails
Los Alamos Trails App
The app profiles dozens of trips in Los Alamos County, Bandelier National Monument, and the Valles Caldera National Preserve.
Pajarito Mountain
505-662-5725
Come ski the rim of a volcano! Whether you snowboard or ski, there are lifts to take you to 40 trails on 300 acres of cleared terrain—plus some of the best tree and bump skiing in the state. Pajarito Mountain Ski Area is on the eastern edge of the Jemez Mountains, just 5 miles west of downtown Los Alamos. Depending upon the season, this family-friendly mountain offers trail access for skiers, boarders, hikers and bikers, featuring the “Crazy Mother” terrain park and a network of cross-country trails accessible from the base of the mountain. The ski/board season generally starts in mid-December lasting through the end of March, with lift service Fridays through Sundays, as well as most holidays. In late May, the mountain converts to a biker’s paradise with mountain bike lift-service to downhill and free ride trails. Visit the website for amenities, services, hours and conditions.
Los Alamos County Ice Rink
505-662-4500
An outdoor ice-skating rink in a canyon setting adds to the winter fun. The ice rink is the only NHL regulation-sized outdoor refrigerated rink in New Mexico. Open November –March.
Larry R. Walkup Aquatic Center
505-662-8170
Swim in North America’s highest-altitude indoor Olympic-size pool. The pool is used by international competitors and families alike. Open 7 days a week, plus summer specials.
Los Alamos County Golf Course
Call to reserve tee times at one of New Mexico’s highest and most scenic courses. Located in the Jemez Mountains, the course currently offers a challenging 6,500-yard par 72, 18-hole layout. Future plans for this attraction include a new club house, as well as course-wide improvements to make this asset even more competitive. Open March–Nov.