Snowshoeing, Backcountry Skiing and Boarding

Trails and Guided Backcountry Tours

Snowshoeing and backcountry skiing provide a unique and fun way to enjoy the outdoors in winter. Enjoy exploring quiet winter trails on a sunny afternoon. Or go on a guided backcountry skiing or snowshoeing tour to experience the beauty of hiking in the winter.

TRAIL UPDATE (February 16, 2024): All trails are open and snow is deep enough that snowshoes are highly recommended. Boot traction devices (like Yaktrax) can work if you stay on a well packed trail. 

You can Snowshoe or backcountry ski (skin) up to Williams Lake—a 4-mile round trip hike from The Bavarian (does require an AWD or 4×4 to access the trailhead). Other options include Gavilan Trail (3.3 miles one way), Italianos Canyon Trail (3.7 miles one way), Bull of the Woods Trail (3 miles one way), Manzanita Canyon Trail (4.2 miles one way) and Yerba Canyon Trail (3.9 miles one way). All of these trails are accessible from Highway 150, the Taos Ski Valley road. Scroll to the bottom of this page for trail maps.

The two most popular trails for snowshoeing are Williams Lake and Bull of The Woods/Wheeler Peak Trail #90. More trails including popular cross country ski trails can be found at Carson National Forest. For groomed cross country ski trails, check out the Enchanted Forest XC Ski Area near Red River.

See all trails in Taos Ski Valley on HikingProject.com – free GPS coordinates, descriptions, photos and other info.

Taos Avalanche Center forecasts, observations, and more information.

Snowshoe Rentals
Snowshoes/poles can be rented at Cottams’s Ski Shop.

Location

Mountain Skills Guided Snowshoe Tours

Mountain Skills Guided Snowshoe Tours

Discover the serenity and beauty of the mountains on snowshoes! If you enjoy hiking, you’ll love exploring the trails in the winter. Snowshoe through pine forests and aspen groves, along streams, and beautiful views. All that’s needed is an adventuring spirit and some essential clothing. No experience necessary. Book a…

Heritage Inspirations Snowshoe Tours

Heritage Inspirations Snowshoe Tours

Whether you are a skier/snowboarder looking for a different kind of snow adventure or you have never been on snowshoes, Heritage Inspirations snowshoe tours are a great winter experience for everyone! Your snowshoeing expedition will begin in the lobby of Taos’ El Monte Sagrado Resort, where you will meet your…

Mountain Skills Guided Backcountry Tours

Mountain Skills Guided Backcountry Tours

For 25 years, Mountain Skills Guides have been providing guided outdoor trips in New Mexico and around the world. We now proudly offer guided backcountry skiing and riding in Northern New Mexico near Taos Ski Valley. Some of the regions most accomplished skiers are on staff led by our…

Taos Ski Valley Area Trails