Taos Ski Valley

Overview

Experience some of the most beautiful alpine hiking in New Mexico. Taos Ski Valley boasts 10 public hiking trails and several summit opportunities, including the highest in New Mexico: Wheeler Peak, topping out at 13,161 ft. The Village of Taos Ski Valley's alpine elevation, from 9,207 ft. to 12,610 ft., creates a refreshing place to escape the heat for hiking and mountain biking after the winter snow melt.

In the spring and summer you'll enjoy abundant wildflowers and may meet resident Bighorn Sheep in the higher elevations. Fall is especially lovely in the Village with the Aspens spectacularly changing color from mid-September through early October. In the winter enjoy world-class skiing and snowshoeing.

Taos Ski Valley is sandwiched between the Wheeler Peak and Columbine-Hondo Wilderness areas, in the Questa Ranger District of the Carson National Forest.

A year-round recreational community, the Village has lodging, shopping, spa services, and dining options to perfectly compliment your outdoor adventures.

For help planning your trip you can request information specific to your stay, or visit TaosSkiValley.com to see all of the options.

Local Info

Taos Ski Valley is the perfect base camp! With so many day hikes and multi-day backpacking routes to choose from, you'll want to spend several days here.

The most popular hike in the area, and #1 in New Mexico, is Williams Lake Trail #62.

There are two ways to summit Wheeler Peak (13,161 ft.), either by way of the Williams Lake Trail to Wheeler Peak Summit Trail #67 or via Wheeler Peak Trail #90.

Another stunning summit nearby is Gold Hill Trail #64 (12,711 ft.).

Other popular hikes include Italianos Canyon Trail #59, Gavilan Trail #60, Long Canyon Trail #63 and Lobo Peak Trail #57.

Visiting Tips

The best time to hit the trails without snow is usually mid to late-June through October. During the winter months the trails are accessible with snowshoes or boot traction devices when the snow is packed and icy.

In Taos Ski Valley, BootDoctors or Taos Sports have great selections of outdoor gear and items you may need. Hiking and camping gear rentals are available at Bootdoctors.

While Taos Ski Valley is well-known for its sunny weather, be aware that weather in the high country is unpredictable. Mountain storms are a common occurrence in any season, and hourly temperatures range dramatically year-round. Avalanches can happen during the winter months. Start your day early, dress in layers, and always bring a waterproof shell. Check out our trail updates page for the latest conditions.

Camping & Lodging

There are three Carson National Forest Campgrounds along Hwy 150 and one tent campground in Taos Ski Valley. Fee-based RV & Camper parking is allowed in the Resort's designated RV lot.

Taos Ski Valley has a variety of lodging options, from B&B's to hotels, condos and cabins.

Food & Drink

Taos Ski Valley restaurants offer dining options from casual pizza and burgers to upscale meals with local and seasonal menus. Black Diamond Espresso serves excellent coffee and baked goodies. Enjoy a mouth-watering breakfast at Cafe Naranja or pick up a sandwich for your hike at Der Garten Bistro. Refuel and relax after your hike on the Taos Ale House deck, serving delicious Detroit style pizzas and burgers. Drop in Bumps Market or Cid's Mountain Market for trail snacks or to-go food.

Located close to Williams Lake Trail and the trailhead is The Bavarian Restaurant, serving authentic German food, burgers, and beer. The deck scene at the "Bav" is legendary!

For a complete list of restaurant and market and options, click here. Refer to our Currently Open page for a complete listing of Dining, Shopping, and Activities open while you are here.

Other Activities

Take a horseback ride, mountain biking, fly fishing, rock climbing, rafting, hot air ballooning & scenic plane tours, scenic lift rides and disc golf.