Short answer: According to local legend, Angel Fire got its name from the Ute people, who described a fiery glow over the mountains as “fire of the gods.” Over time, the name evolved into Angel Fire, inspired by the brilliant reds and golds that light up our mountain sunsets.
The Legend Behind Angel Fire’s Name
There are a couple of local legends about how Angel Fire got its name. One story traces it back to the Ute people, who reportedly saw a fiery glow over the mountains and called it “fire of the gods.” Over time, that description evolved into “fire of the angels.”
Another version of the story involves Kit Carson, who is said to have witnessed the same fiery glow while traveling through the area. While the exact origin of the name isn’t certain, both stories connect Angel Fire’s name to its colorful mountain skies.
And as someone who lives here, I get it. I’ve watched those sunsets when the sky lights up in brilliant reds, oranges, and golds, and the mountains really do look like they’re on fire. It’s one of those little things about living in Angel Fire that never gets old.