When the snow is long gone and warm days stretch gloriously until sundown, Taos Ski Valley transforms into a summer adventure paradise. Take a couple days off at 9,321 feet. You’ll find the heart of the Valley in our Village at the base area of the mountain.
After the lovely winding drive up NM-150, as you enter Taos Ski Valley, to the right you’ll see the green ski slopes and lifts of Ski Taos rising into the blue sky. If you need directions or specific area information, stop in at our Visitor Center located in the main parking area.
Park and walk up Sutton Place or Thunderbird Road to the center of the base area, the Resort Plaza – a key place to meet up, take in the views, or settle into a comfortable deck chair. As the day goes on, the sunlight shifts on the trees and mountain sides, creating slow, natural theater.
Arrive with an appetite? If you have that hangry person in your group, stop at Cid’s Mountain Market for quick, healthy options to turn their frown upside down. For the ‘fastest lift at Taos Ski Valley’ look no further than Black Diamond Espresso, where coffee, tea, milk steamers, and specialty hot chocolate are ready to elevate your senses. Foodies will want to check out Taos Ale House’s Door 38 for pizza, burgers, a full bar, and outdoor deck.
If you need another layer in our high alpine climate, gear up at BootDoctors or Taos Sports for footwear, casual wear and other outdoor supplies. The friendly locals who work there are always willing to talk about area trails and conditions.
If you are mountain biking Taos Ski Valley for the first time or if you are new to mountain biking, get your legs warmed up on the Pioneer Flow Trail near the Resort Center and practice there before going to the more advanced Green Chile Flow Trail. Bike rentals including safety gear for the whole family are available at Kachina Sports (near Chair 4). Cyclists from lower elevations will want to take advantage of the electric bike rentals at Taos Sports (near Chair 1). Explore the hills with ease with silent electric assistance! Their pedal-assisted mountain bikes conserve your energy so that you can see and do more during your visit.
It’s natural to need relaxation time after you’ve been among our spectacular landscape. The magnificent colors, vast views, and high altitude can bring you a renewed sense of calm. To treat yourself, look into some pampering time at one of our area spas. These spas are available to all by appointment, but you can also choose to stay onsite! Alpine Village Suites Spa, Edelweiss Spa, and The Spa & Wellness Center at The Blake (which includes the outdoor pool) offer a variety of indulgent services to enjoy yourself or with family and friends.
Taos Ski Valley has likely changed since your last visit – the Lower Plaza renovation is complete and there’s new places to see! Mesa’s Edge has a delectable collection of locally-made Native American jewelry and artwork. Confluence has unique artisan pieces for your home, office, or as special gifts. As a special bonus, a Town of Taos favorite has a new location – Cid’s Mountain Market has freshly made grab-n-go food, wine, beer and lots of local natural products.
Within the Lower Plaza area is a kid-friendly summer fun zone (the ice rink in winter) where cornhole, hoola hoops, and soccer balls welcome everyone to play! Just up the bridge towards the Main Plaza, you’ll find perennial favorites for all things beautiful, cozy, and handmade at Andean Software. You’ll find something special among the fine textiles, clothing, jewelry, and gifts lovingly chosen by the owner on buying trips to South America.
No matter how you choose to spend a weekend or longer in Taos Ski Valley, you’ll love the small town charm paired with European flair.