Despite its stunning location in the beautiful Jemez Mountains above Los Alamos, many overlook Pajarito Mountain on New Mexico’s roster of ski areas. Now, the mountain is nearing a major transformation that will completely reshape it.
Pajarito’s Long Awaited Waterline Becomes Reality
If you remember, a few years ago we talked about how Pajarito brought on a new manager who injected a renewed sense of energy into the place. His biggest accomplishment is finally making progress on a long-discussed project: extending a waterline to the ski area.
The new pipeline will bring major upgrades. This includes expanded snowmaking capability, improved fire protection, and reliable water service for the mountain. Billed as the Jemez Mountain Fire Protection Project, the first two phases are expected to be completed by December 18, well ahead of the July 31 deadline. After that comes phase three, which involves installing four booster pumps. The fourth and final phase is the installation of a 250,000 gallon storage tank, which is already 85 percent complete.
Fiber Optics Coming Too
Fiber optic and electrical conduits along Camp May Road will enhance controls to the booster stations and the water storage tank, used for snowmaking and wildfire emergencies, should they arise, and serve general needs as well.
Extending Mother Nature’s Bounty
“For decades, Pajarito has been known as a hidden gem—offering incredible terrain but always at the mercy of Mother Nature,” says Pajarito Mountain’s general Manager Jasen Bellomy. “With this project, that changes. We’re set to become the snowmaking capital of New Mexico. This means earlier openings, more terrain, and a more reliable ski season for our local community and beyond.”
Until now, Pajarito has relied solely on runoff and rainwater collected in its 10-million-gallon snowmaking reservoir at the top of the mountain. The introduction of a consistent water source marks a historic shift for the resort.
Pajarito plans to open on Dec. 12.
