Taos Ski Valley

Overview

Experience some of the most beautiful alpine hiking in New Mexico. The ski valley boasts 11 public hiking trails and several summit opportunities, including the highest peak in New Mexico: Wheeler Peak, topping out at 13,161 ft. You'll enjoy abundant wildflowers and may meet our resident herd of Bighorn Sheep in the higher elevations. Fall is especially spectacular in the ski valley. The aspens put on their show from mid-September through early October.

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

The Village of Taos Ski Valley's alpine elevation, from 9,207 ft. to 12,610 ft., creates a refreshing place to escape the summer heat for hiking and mountain bike riding. In the winter enjoy world-class skiing and snowshoeing.

A year-round recreational community, the Village has several unique lodging, shopping, and dining options, all located so close to the trails that you can easily find a place to dine and relax in between outings.

To see everything that Taos Ski Valley has to offer, visit TaosSkiValley.com.

Local Info

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

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, Bull-of-the-Woods Trail #90, Long Canyon Trail #63 and Lobo Peak Trail #57.

Visiting Tips

The best time to hit the trails dry tends to be late-June through October. During the winter months many trails are accessible with snowshoes, or are well travelled with packed snow.

The BootDoctors or Taos Sports have great selections of outdoor gear and items you might need.

While Taos Ski Valley is well-known for its sunny weather, be aware that weather anywhere in New Mexico can be 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 water-proof shell. Check out our trail updates page for the latest conditions.

Camping & Lodging

There are four Carson National Forest Campgrounds along Hwy 150 to the Village of Taos Ski Valley. There is free RV Camping in the ski resort parking lot.

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

Food & Drink

Black Diamond Espresso serves excellent coffee and baked goodies. Enjoy a mouth-watering breakfast or pick up a sandwich for your hike on weekends at Cafe Naranja. Refuel and relax after your hike at on the Stray Dog Cantina deck, serving delicious Northern New Mexican specialties, burgers, and strong margaritas. Drop in Bumps Market, if you forgot 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.

Other Activities

Take a horseback ride or llama trekking tour, mountain biking, fly fishing, rock climbing, rafting, hot air ballooning, chair lift rides and disc golf. In addition to public land trails, there are also incredible hiking, trail running and mountain biking opportunities on private, fee-based, Northside at Taos Ski Valley.