Winter Wonderland in Taos Ski Valley

Skiing

Deep, light powder. More than 1,290 acres of terrain and a silence cut only by the sound of your skis. Taos Ski Valley is pure skiing for those who have a genuine respect for the mountain and a sheer love of the sport. In this world of glitzy alpine resorts, a casual destination that offers such an undiluted experience is truly remarkable. You’ll find that same spirit in our accessible mountain town where there’s a singular lack of hype and crowds. Taos Ski Valley is about friendly folks taking in great entertainment, enjoying world-class dining and sharing stories of another great day in skiers’ paradise.

OPENING DATES
December 14, 2007 - April 06, 2008

AVERAGE ANNUAL SNOWFALL
305 inches

AVERAGE DAYS OF SUNSHINE
300+ days

TOTAL ACREAGE
1,294 Acres

NUMBER OF TRAILS
110 total: 24% beginner, 25% intermediate, 51% expert

NUMBER OF LIFTS
12 total: 4 quad chair lifts; 1 triple chair lift; 5 double chair lifts; 2 surface lifts

BASE ELEVATION
9,207 feet / 2805 meters

TOP OF HIGHEST LIFT SERVED
11,819 feet / 3602 meters

KACHINA PEAK ELEVATION
12,481 feet / 3804 meters

VERTICAL DROP
2,612 feet / 796.13 meters (lift served)
3,274 feet / 998.22 meters (with Kachina Peak hike)

HOURS OF LIFT OPERATION
9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

UPHILL CAPACITY
More than 15,000 skiers per hour

SNOWMAKING CAPABILITIES
100% of beginner and intermediate slopes

OUT-TO-LAUNCH TERRAIN PARK
Terrain park located on Maxie's run under lift #7 offers two huge airs, a hip, a quarter pipe, and rails. The park is groomed nightly.
Visit www.skitaos.org for additional information and ski conditions.

Snowshoeing

Enjoy the pristine beauty and silence of the Carson National Forest surrounding Taos Ski Valley. Numerous trails will lead you to breathtaking views and allow you to escape everyday life. Hiking with snowshoes will rejuvenate your mind and reconnect your soul to the mountains. Snowshoe rentals and trail maps are available at local ski shops.

Tubing                               

Tubing is a great after skiing activity for the whole family to enjoy. Meet at Strawberry hill in the resort Centre. Hours of operation are 5pm - 7pm. Cost $7 per person and cas only please. Call 575 776-1413 for more information.

Snowmobile Tours

Wilderness Adventures, LLC

Located in and above Taos Ski Valley, A.A. Wilderness Adventures is one of the most picturesque snowmobile tours you will take anywhere. Big Al will be your guide to 12,000 foot peaks and incredible views. The 2 hour tour includes riding time on the snowmobiles, helmets and warm clothing. Don't forget to bring you camera along. Take a guided snowmobile tour to the majestic peaks and ridges above Taos Ski Valley. Experience spectacular views of New Mexico's highest peaks and enjoy an exhilarating ride. An adventure the entire family will enjoy and treasure. As Big ’Al’ would say, ’Make no mistake - this tour will lift your spirit!’

Book your snowmobile Trip now!  Make no mistake - this tour will lift your spirit - we're sure of that!

2 hour tour  Single $65 Pair $85

Includes Helmets, boots and warm clothing.

Call Big Al   (575)   751-6051

bigaltsv@taosnet.com

 

 

Taos Hot Air Ballooning Inc.

P.O. Box 2099, Taos, NM  •  phone 575-751-9877
hotair@puebloballoon.com

Imagine yourself floating through the air, gliding on the soft desert winds, as the splendor of the Rio Grande Gorge passes beneath you. Imagine a panoramic view of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains or the high’s carpet of sagebrush. Then come join us for an unforgettable ballooning experience.

Cooking Studios Taos

Taos Ski Valley, NM  •  phone 800-517-9816

Star parties scheduled throughout the summer, fall and winter. See galaxies, nebula, globular clusters and more through two Newtonian telescopes. No charge. Base of lift one. Check our calendar page for schedule.

VILLAGE SKI SHOPS

 

Taos Ski & Boot Company

An experienced staff provides you with everything you need to stay warm, look great, and ski better. Ski & Boot has the best selection of skis, boots, accessories, expertly tuned demos, and quality boot fitting to insure a great day on the slopes.
Call (505) 776-2516 or email tsbc@skitaos.org
 

 

Alpine X-treme Ski Sales & Rentals

Ski-in/ski-out access in the new Edelweiss Hotel. High-performance demos; top-of-the-line ski wear. Call (505) 776-8380 or visit www.alpinextreme.com

 

  

The Boot Doctors

America's best boot fitters and complete ski shop. Five-time Gold Medal Ski Shop winner. Taos Ski Valley's most experienced, professional staff.
Call (505) 776-2489 or visit www.bootdoctor.com

   

Cottam's Ski Shops

New high-performance ski rentals, custom tuning, resort wear, FREE overnight storage on slopes.
Call (505) 758-2822 or visit www.cottamsskishops.com

Le Ski Mastery

World-class ski tuning by Alain Veth. Racing gear, technical clothing. Large selection of new demo skis and boots.
Call (505) 776-1403

Terry Sports  Taos ski specialists featuring demo skis, high-performance rentals, ski apparel, accessories. Two village locations.
Call (505) 776-8711 or visit www.terrysports.com  email rentskis@terrysports.com

Cross Country Ski Trails 
Skiing in Carson National Forest, Taos Ski Valley, Red River and Sipapu Ski Areas are all located on portions of the National Forest and provide downhill and nordic skiing. Plenty of opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and sledding also exist on the Carson.Detailed guides for many of the trails listed are available at Carson National Forest offices.  

Winter Recreation Opportunities: Shared Trails
Some trails are shared by cross-country skiers , snowshoers, and snowmobilers. Please keep trails safe by operating snowmobiles at minimum speed near skiers or snowshoers and maintaining minimum speed until well beyond those on foot. Skiers and snowshoers should also be alert for snowmobilers. Some trails are designated for skiers only and some for snowmobiles only. Restrictions are posted, but check with the local Forest Service office for more information.

Beware of Hazards
Many people are unaware of the hazards of winter recreation. A "Winter Recreation Safety Guide" is available at all Forest Service Offices. Ask about possible trail closures, avalance hazards, weather conditions, and new trails not shown on the map.

Don't Go Out Alone
Please do not cross-country ski, snowshoe or snowmobile alone if you are inexperienced and /or unfamiliar with the terrain. Most shops which rent equipment can also advise you on trails. If you do go out alone, be sure to notify someone where you are going, and when you expect to return. Also, be sure to notify this person on your return.  Beware of Avalanches
Avalanches can occur at any time during the winter. Avoid mountainous terrain after heavy snowfalls or prolonged period of high wind. Stay on the windblown side of ridges. Avoid crossing steep side hills and entering narrow, steep canyons.

Extreme avalanche hazards exist through out the Williams Lake area. Back-country travel is not recommended due to frequent avalanches. (USGS Quad: Wheeler Peak)Hypothermia
Hypothermia is aggravated by wind, exhaustion, and being wet. Avoid wearing cotton next to your body, as cotton will soak up perspiration and cool your skin. Hypothermia is the number one killer of outdoor recreationists.Food And Water
A good rule is "lightweight but loaded", meaning loaded with calories. Plan your meals to ensure a diet of high-energy foods. Water is often difficult to find in winter. All that is available may be what you carry in containers or melt from snow. The body looses as much as 2-4 quarts of liquid per day under exertion.Eating snow provides only limited water (10-20%), drains energy and cools the body temperature. Avoid melting snow by body contact. Travel equipped with proper implements to melt snow. Save your energy.Litter and Sanitation
Litter is ugly - particularly when viewed against a mantle of white snow. Please carry out what you carry in. Please do not leave human waste near streams and lakes.

Developed Cross-Country Ski Area
  
Enchanted Forest Cross-Country Ski Area
P.O. Box 521
Red River, New Mexico, 87558
(505) 754-2374
 

 

Open: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Peak Elevation: 10,300 feet
Base Elevation: 9,800 feet
Terrain: 19 miles (30k) of trails over 1,400 acres, signed with an accompanying map. Trails have tracks set and picnic areas. There are trails for all levels of skiers. Trail Fees.
Average Temperature: 38 degrees
Also: All day tours, moonlight tours and videotaping are available along with rentals, demos, and instruction. Whether you want to ski the tracks or make your own, panoramic views and great times await you.
 

 
Cross Country Ski Trails
 

Key to trail information:
(H=Hike | XC=Cross Country Ski | SS=Snowshoe | SM=Snowmobile | HB=Horseback | MB=Mountain Biking | W=Wilderness | ATV=All Terrain Vehicles)
(N=Novice | I=Intermediate | E=Expert)

• Agua Piedra Campground Trail 22 (H,HB,MB,XC,SS,SM)
  

• Alamitos Trail 19 (H,HB,XC,SS,W) (N,I)

• Amole Canyon (H,MB,XC,SS) (N,I,E)

• Biscara Trail (XC,SS) (N,I)

• Burned Mountain (XC,SS) (N,I)

• Cabresto Lake Road/Lake Fork Trail (H,HB,MB,XC,SS,SM) (I,E)
  

• Capulin/La Sombra (XC,SS) (N,I)

• Columbine Creek (H,HB,XC,SS,W) (N,I,E)

• Ditch Cabin to Sawmill Park (XC,SS) (N,I)

• East Fork to Ditch Cabin (H,HB,XC,SS) (I)

• East Fork Trail 26 (H,HB,XC,SM) (I,E)

• Elliott Barker Trail (H,HB,MB,XC,SS,SM) (N,I)

• Exploration Road (H,HB,MB,XC,SS,SM) (E)

• Forest Road 795 (H,HB,MB,XC,SS) (N,I)

• Forest Roads 1892 & 1893 (H,HB,MB,XC,SS) (N,I,E)

• Middle Fork Lake FR 487 (H,ATV,HB,MB,XC,SS,SM) (I,E)
  

• Gallegos Peak (HB,MB,ATV,XC,SS,SM)(N,I)
  

• Garcia Park (MB,XC,SS,SM) (I,E)

• Goose Creek (H,HB,XC,SS) (E)

• Greenie Peak/Midnight Meadows (HB,MB,ATV,XC,SS,SM) (N,I,E)

• Horseshoe Lake/East Fork Trail 56 (H,HB,XC,SS,W)(I,E)

• La Jara Canyon (MB,XC,SS) (N)

• Long Canyon / Bull-Of-The-Woods (H,HB,XC,SS,W) (E)

• Lost Lake Trail 91 (H,HB,XC,SS) (I,E)

• Malletee Canyon, Trail Canyon (MB,XC,SS,SM) (N,I,E)

• Maquinita Canyon Trail (H,HB,MB,XC,SS) (N,I,E)

• Middle Fork Road/West Fork Road (MB,XC,SS,SM) (E)

• Middle Fork Trail (H,HB,XC,SS) (I)

• Mondragon Canyon (XC,SS) (I)
  

• OK Canyon (XC,SS) (I)

• Picuris Peak / Picuris Lookout (H,HB,MB,XC,SS,SM) (I,E)
  

• Pioneer Creek (H,HB,MB,XC,SS,SM) (I)

• PowderHouse-Little Costilla Peak Trail (H,HB,MB,XC,SS) (I,E)

• Rio Grande del Rancho Trail 18 (H,HB,MB,XC,SS) (N,I)
  

• Santa Barbara Divide to Ripley Point Trail 36 (H,HB,XC,SS,W) (I)

• Santa Barbara Campground Area (XC,SS,SM) (N)

• Santa Barbara Trails 24,25 & 26 (H,HB,XC,SS,W) (I,E)
  

• Trampas Campground Trail 30 (H,HB,XC,SS,W) (I,E)
  

• Trampas Campground Trail 31 (H,HB,XC,SS,W) (I,E)

• Valle Vidal (H,HB,MB,ATV,XC,SS,SM) (N,I,E)

• West Fork Trail (H,XC,SS,W)

• Wheeler Peak Trail 90 (H,HB,XC,SS,W) (I,E)

• Williams Lake Trail 62 (H,HB,XC,SS,W) (N,I)

 

 

All your daily activities are guaranteed to work up an appetite. Taos Ski Valley’s locally owned and operated restaurants serve everything from authentic, New Mexican food to European cuisine. If you’re looking for great restaurants with a casual, friendly atmosphere, Taos Ski Valley’s dining can satisfy your craving.

On-Mountain Dining

Tenderfoot Katie's Cafeteria
This is the place to go for a quick, economical breakfast or lunch. The food is served promptly and there is a wide selection to choose from including burgers, tacos and sandwiches. Now featuring an expanded salad bar, with more than 25 fresh new items as well as low carb and "Fresh Fare" menu selections. We also have the addition of a self service soup station that will feature four fresh soups and a Texas chili each day. Tenderfoot Katie's also features daily specials, a deli section and big windows facing the slopes so you won't miss any of the action outside.

The Martini Tree Bar
Upstairs from Tenderfoot Katie's, is the HOT SPOT for après ski action. It is a wonderful place to meet with friends, enjoy live entertainment, play a few games of pool, quench your thirst. With expanded hours, a new food menu, more games, and a new high definition flat screen TV for Sunday and Monday night football, the Martini Tree is the place to be. Explore the walls for a glimpse of Taos Ski Valley history.

Rhoda's Restaurant
Located slopeside in the Resort Center, Rhoda's is open from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. for lunch and dinner. Lunches feature great soups, chili and overstuffed sandwiches in a quiet sit-down atmosphere. Take in the action at the base of Al's Run while sitting on Rhoda's outside deck.

Dinner at Rhoda's features excellent steaks, salads, pasta, chicken and seafood at affordable prices. The children's menu is fun and affordable. Dining is casual yet comfortable with a full bar, wine list and carefully selected micro-brews. Rhoda's is an easy stroll from any of the Ski Valley lodges or condos. Reservations are welcome. Click here for more information.

The Phoenix Grill
Located at the base of the #4 chair (the quad chair in Kachina Bowl), the Phoenix Grill is the perfect spot for enjoying lunch, watching skiers and taking a relaxing break from your ski activities. Whatever you are looking for, be it burgers, frito pies, sandwiches or soups, you will find it and other selections as well at The Phoenix. Beer and wine are also available with the purchase of food. Enjoy the outdoor deck, soak up the winter sun and work on that ski tan.

The Whistlestop Cafe
Located at the base of #6 lift and close to the #2 quad chair, the Whistlestop Cafe is the best place to meet friends, get a quick cup of coffee, enjoy a slice of pizza, a hot bowl of soup or just rest your tired legs.

Crossroads Pizza

 Great Pizza, Pasta, and Salads. Wine and Beer availably. Dine in, take out or delivered.

Call (575)  776 - 8866

Tim's Stray Dog Cantina

  

Specialising in Northern New Mexico Cuisine. relaxed atmosphere. Full Bar and take out available.

 

The warm, cozy restaurant features a genuine Bavarian tile oven to warm guests' backs while dining. Original Bavarian-Austrian cuisine and only the most traditional Ski Alm gourmet dishes are served. The highly professional and friendly staff, dressed in traditional Bavarian attire, serve Bavarian beers and the finest European and American wines.

 Lunch is served on the large sundeck, at the outdoor bar and grille featuring our cushioned reclining sunchaises from 11:30 until 3:30. During times of inclement weather lunch will be served inside.

Drinks and snacks are served during Apres-Ski Hours from 3:00 - 5:00 pm.

Dinner is served from 5:30 until closing. Please inquire about our free dinner shuttle from TSV base area.

The Bavarian

PO Box 653, Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico 87525
505-776-8020 fax 505-776-5301
bavarian@thebavarian.net www.thebavarian.net

 

Entertainment 

From local taverns to sports bars, Taos Ski Valley has numerous nightly entertainment options. You can enjoy a fine glass of wine in an intimate, high alpine setting or have a local micro-brew while shooting pool. A variety of live music is available at our local establishments. Either way, you are guaranteed to meet new friends and share stories about your incredible day in the mountains of Taos Ski Valley.

Please view our event Calander for a full list of 

eventshttp://taosskivalley.com/events_and_calendars/tsv_calendar_of_events/

If you have any questions or would like additional information regarding winter activities at Taos Ski Valley, please contact the Taos Ski Valley Chamber of Commerce at 575-776-1413, 1-800-517-9816 or email info@taosskivalley.com

 

Summer Activities

 Taos Ski Valley

TOI - Taos Operatic Instute

June 2008, Taos Ski Valley be graced by the first Annual TOI - Taos Operatic Institute. Mary Jane Johnson has established  a four- week intensive program designed to “bridge the gap” between academia and apprenticeships for the emerging young vocal artist. Our philosophy will focus on integrating and improving your technique, your physical well being and your artistry.

Live performances from students of Toi will be held at Taos Ski valley and the town of Taos.    June 13,14,20 and 21 and the grand finale in taos town on June 30th 2008. Please call the Chamber offices for details. 575-776-1413
 

Jillana Ballet School

 

The Jillana School is an intensive summer program, directed by Jillana, authorized teacher of the Balanchine Technique® & Balanchine Style®, and is fashioned for the young pre-professional.

Four to five classes daily, Monday through Friday, one/two on Saturday. Approximately 35-40 hours of instruction per week. Small classes. Merit scholarships. Three health conscious meals a day, including picnics and cookouts. One student per bed. Taos Ski Valley Hotels will provide the student housing. The hotels are quaintly decorated and have Jacuzzis. Most rooms are equipped with a phone, television, VCR, microwave, and refrigerator. Experienced counselors and a nurse will supervise and care for the students.

Taos Chamber Music

There is something different about making music in New Mexico — its endless vistas and open landscapes infuse creativity with a sense of spaciousness and possibility. For the past fourteen years the Taos Chamber Music Group has tapped into the Land of Enchantment by presenting the imaginative and inspirational performances for which it has become known. TCMG has historically sought out programming and partnerships that go beyond the classical music concert formula to redefine and enhance the very concept of chamber music.

In its fifteenth anniversary season, TCMG will offer a wide variety of programs that reflect the unique cultural diversity of its home in Taos as well as a deep connection with the land that surrounds us. Highlights include the return of the stellar American String Quartet, bringing classical music’s finest to Taos. A piece commissioned for TCMG’s anniversary by critically acclaimed composer Paul Fowler and a collaboration with Native American musician Robert Mirabal will combine improvised and composed music. Visual art will have a place in two programs, one in conjunction with an award winning film about listening to music, and another with music and photography inspired by nature.

Whether performing at the Taos Community Auditorium or the Harwood Museum, recreating the Baroque or reinventing the Contemporary, in large ensemble or solo, TCMG is dedicated to sharing with audiences a musical experience that is both intimate and powerful. As always, classical masterpieces will be combined with new and lesser known works performed by some of New Mexico’s finest musicians. And TCMG’s commitment to music education will continue to bring programs to hundreds of Taos County school children. This landmark season has something for everyone from the best in classical to outside−the−box collaborations. We invite you to be part of the magic of live chamber music!         A sample of the Taos Chamber Music Group Calendar