Golf in New Mexico
Terrain, Weather and the effect of Altitude
New Mexico is a mix of high-desert and sub-alpine terrain, with rugged mountains and vast, sparsely populated deserts. Elevation in New Mexico ranges from 2,800 to 13,000. Most populated areas lie between 4,800 and 7,000 feet above sea level. This may be relevant to people with breathing difficulties.
The good news, however, is that at 5,000 feet, well-struck golf shots travel about 1 to 1½ clubs farther through the thin, dry air, or about 12 percent farther. The sun’s rays are especially strong at altitude, so frequent application of sun screen with an SPF of 30 or higher is strongly recommended. The dry air draws moisture from the body quickly. You’ll perspire but won’t feel it because the air wicks perspiration away so quickly. Golfers are advised to drink plenty of water during their round whether they feel thirsty or not.
Mid-summer day-time highs can reach between 90 and 100 in Albuquerque, which is a mile high. Santa Fe, which is at 7,000 feet, is usually about 10 degrees cooler. Taos and Angel Fire are higher still and about 5-10 degrees cooler. During night-time, temperatures drop significantly because the thin air doesn’t hold heat, which makes for great sleeping and leads to cool, crisp mornings that warm quickly. Most golfers off at dawn will shed their first layer by the fifth hole. Humidity is generally low, at around 50 percent, but it rises in the mid-afternoon, when there is a possibility of thundershowers. Best times to play are early morning and late afternoon and early evening.
