Out in the southwest of the United States of America lies an overlooked, historic, and naturally beautiful town in the state of New Mexico, that town goes by the name of Taos.
Taos is also the home to one of the best ski resorts in North America, Taos Ski Valley Resort. Taos is implemented in the Sangre de Cristo Mountain range with 110 trails consisting of tight tree lines, gorgeous hikes to 12,000 feet and much more across its 1,294 skiable acres.
Taos Ski Valley Ski Guide
What Makes Taos Ski Valley Unique?
What makes Taos Ski Valley unique aside from the fantastic skiing is its long and storied history.
From a small little mining town in the 1800’s to 1955 when a European skier and his wife sought out the mountain range to become a ski resort. Ernie Blake was his name and he actually paid respects to the Native American culture there, Pueblo de Taos, and since have incorporated their culture into many architectural aspects, community collaboration and creating opportunities for guests to learn about the history and traditions they possess.
Taos is a challenging resort, over half the resort is considered difficult, but it also has plenty of terrain for everyone to enjoy. It is a perfect spot for a trip with friends and family or an all business solo trip on the mountain.
As stated earlier the maximum elevation to be skied is 12,581 feet, Taos Ski Valley is one of the highest municipalities in the United States. It's a town built for skiing and that's what it has been.
Off the mountain Taos Ski Valley also has two very popular après ski functions. The Bavarian Lodge provides a good old german beer and bratwurst. While The Blonde BearTavern gets you a European style buzz with their drinks after the day is done. These two spots are legendary and a staple in the culture of Taos.
Gear Needed to Ski in Taos Ski Valley
To ski here is to ski at any of the top resorts on the western half of the United States. Mammoth, Tahoe, Utah, Colorado, it's very similar conditions to these spots. What I'm saying is, it's the real deal.
Don't take any shortcuts when packing your bags. You're going to want everything from powder skis if you got them, sunglasses, goggles, your best jacket, everything.
Depending on what time of year you plan on visiting, February or March would be a good recommendation, the snowfall could vary but the temperatures rarely get up past 40 degrees fahrenheit. December usually brings many storms but also brings crowds.
With such high elevation and a mostly north facing mountain the resort retains its snowpack very well all year long.
Where to Stay in Taos Ski Valley
Edelweiss Lodge and Spa is a luxury accommodation in Taos Ski Valley. Ski in and ski out whenever you want and enjoy the multiple options of condos they have.
The amenities here are off the charts with a full service spa, hot tub and sauna, fitness center, and on site dining are all at the tip of your fingers here.
A cheaper option to stay is the one of the most convenient spots in the area to stay, look no further than the Alpine Village Suites. These suits are located right next to the lifts and have all the amenities you could possibly need while also being pet friendly and smoke free.
This spot has got the balcony views, an outdoor hot tub, wifi and Direct TV all at your disposal.
The Best Ski Runs in Taos Ski Valley
Looking for a challenge? Head to Fabian Chute and see if the “heart stopping” rumors are true.
This chute is for advanced skiers only, is super technical and of course is extremely steep.
There are a couple different routes down but the nose is filled with rocks and trees to keep you on your toes.
Located right underneath Lift 1 lies the daunting and very steep Al's Run. This run will drop you 1,800 feet of elevation and is filled with fun. Navigate the moguls and feel the burn in your legs. On top of all this you will be watched and studied by everyone on the most populated chair right above you.
Hunziger Bowl off of Chair 4 can be accessed in a couple different ways but a quick hike up is the most common. Providing incredible views and a fast descent this is one of the crowd favorites here. There are groomed sections and options for bumps or trees, truly something for every skier from intermediate to advanced.
Honeysuckle is another popular run for the beginning skiers visiting Taos. It is a longer run compared to the other easier runs. Only 900 feet of vertical drop creates a gentle but fun time on an easy green rated run.
The Bottom Line: Taos Ski Valley Ski Guide
Taos Ski Valley is one of the more underrated ski resorts in the whole world.
Enriched with unique history as an area and ski runs that will make your knees shake looking at them, it is right up there with the best of them.
If you are looking for your next ski trip this winter Taos Ski Valley Resort could be right up your alley.
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