Pajarito is open Fridays to Sundays, on federal and Christmas holidays. It sometimes serves up prodigous powder, and offers beautiful views of the Rio Grande Valley, and small crowds. Sitting above Los Alamos in the Jemez Mountains, it was for years the private stash of scientists and their families but has been open to the general public for more than two decades. It appeals mostly to intermediate and novices, with little variation in pitch across its one long face, spiced by some tougher bump runs.

No lodging is available at the ski area, but can be found in nearby Los Alamos or White Rock, or farther away in Santa Fe.

Review the history of Los Alamos National Laboratory, birthplace of atomic weapons, at the Bradbury Science Museum. Nearby Bandelier Nation Monument contains fascinating pre-historic ruins, including cliff dwellings, hiking trails, birding. Ice skating at the Los Alamos Ice Rink. Local area restaurants and cafes offer a selection of southwestern dishes.