About
The breathtaking vertical runs of Taos Ski Valley at the base of the Rocky Mountains have been drawing skiers and mountain-lovers for decades. Beyond the snow, in recent years Taos Ski Valley has transformed into an all-season destination, offering lift-served mountain biking and a Via Ferrata guided climbing experience.
Located about half an hour from the Taos Plaza, this self-proclaimed “village high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains” focuses equally on serenity and adventure, with a strong emphasis on staying local and soaking up the culture that makes Taos feel distinct.
In blending local culture and traditional European hospitality, Taos Ski Valley has held steadfast to its main principles: being iconic & independent, better - not bigger, serving as a confluence of cultures, and in maintaining B Corp ethos with a commitment to positive social and environmental impact.
Boasting more than 300 days of sunshine annually, along with 1,294 acres of skiable terrain, in winter Taos Ski Valley is all about lift-served skiing, lessons, rentals, dining, and après. In the warmer months, the mountain flips into an alpine playground with hiking, mountain biking, scenic lift rides, and even a via ferrata.
Taos Ski Valley: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Rising from a base elevation of 9,350 feet, the summit at Taos Ski Valley reaches up to 12,481 feet. These towering mountains first drew the attention of Swiss ski pioneer Ernie Blake in the 1950s. Together with his family, the Blakes dedicated their lives to building up the ski destination. In 1957, the French junior champion skier Jean Mayer founded the award-winning Ski School here along with a now traditional 6-day immersive Ski Weeks.
Taos Ski Valley continues to have the #1 Ski School in North America!
The experience at Taos Ski Valley has the reputation of having a soulful, slightly wild vibe that feels more like a mountain community than a mega-resort. That slightly wild side provides high-altitude challenges and rugged, natural mountain conditions particularly for more advanced skiers. Of the 110 total trails on the mountain, just over 75% of these are geared for intermediate and expert levels.
The resort village is designed for that easy, walkable, car-light feeling, so once you arrive, it’s simple to settle in and stay put. The resort also puts a spotlight on season-pass perks and community happenings, and its site regularly shares blogs and press releases so you can time your trip around what’s going on.
In summer, the menu of activities is surprisingly robust, including scenic lift rides, mountain biking, hiking, and guided via ferrata routes for a little adrenaline with your views.
Taos Ski Valley Resort is worth it because you can stack big mountain days with great food, real downtime, and a village atmosphere that feels personal rather than packaged.
Local Tips
- Taos Ski Valley is CASHLESS; there are no ATMs on the mountain.
- Buy passes in advance, online or by phone.
- Download the Taos Ski Valley app for the latest updates on resort information
- Check the resort forecast and webcams before you commit to a full-day plan.
