Your Ultimate Guide to Experiencing Taos, New Mexico, in Winter

Tucked between New Mexico's arid desert and the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos attracts ski lovers from around the globe seeking ideal alpine conditions. With an impressive 300 inches of snowfall each year, it's a winter wonderland, but there are also numerous activities in town that don’t necessitate snow gear.

This Rocky Mountain town, home to about 6,000 residents, showcases a rich tapestry of cuisine, culture, and architecture influenced by Native, Spanish, and Anglo American heritage. It is the ancestral home of the Taos Pueblo Indians and was officially designated as a village by the Spanish in 1615. Once a key trading post on the Santa Fe Trail, Taos played a crucial role in the northern territories of the colonial empire. In the mid-20th century, it flourished as an artistic hub, attracting creatives drawn by its historic pueblo structures and diverse Southwestern culture. Local Pueblo artists continue to celebrate their traditions through sculpture, painting, and pottery, making Taos a haven for history lovers and art aficionados alike.

If you seek active pursuits beyond skiing or snowboarding, there’s a wealth of outdoor adventures to explore. Here are some top winter activities to enjoy in Taos:

1. Experience the slopes at Taos Ski Valley

Located approximately 18 miles northeast of Taos, Taos Ski Valley is an independently operated resort that was established in 1954 by Ernie and Rhoda Blake, a ski-loving couple from the East Coast who sought a new life and more skiing adventures in the West. Before acquiring the land that would become Taos Ski Valley, Ernie was involved in managing the Santa Fe and Glenwood Springs ski areas, often spotting potential locations from his small airplane—this led him to the secluded valley that would be transformed into their future ski resort. With Ernie’s marketing expertise and Rhoda’s practical approach and dedication, they created a welcoming lodge with a Southwestern flair. After over six decades of family ownership, Taos Ski Valley was purchased by investor and environmentalist Louis Bacon in 2013, who invested $300 million to upgrade the resort and introduce luxury features.

While the slopes are the main attraction, skiers and snowboarders of all abilities will find a range of challenges, from beginner areas like Strawberry Hill and Rueggli to the famed steep runs such as the Fabian Chute and Cuervo Chute. If you're new to skiing or snowboarding, don't worry—private lessons are available, and intermediate skiers or snowboarders can hire a guide for the day. There are also introductory ski lessons tailored for children.

2. Snowshoe along the numerous trails in Taos

If skiing or snowboarding isn't your forte, you can still immerse yourself in the enchanting winter scenery of the Rockies. Taos is nearly encircled by the Carson National Forest, one of New Mexico's five national forests, offering hundreds of thousands of acres for hiking and camping. A popular yet challenging trek is the Wheeler Peak trail, a 7.3-mile route leading to the state's highest summit. For a more manageable ascent, consider the Gavilan, Italianos, Yerba, or Manzanita trails, all accessible from Ski Valley Road.

3. Enjoy ice skating

When it comes to winter fun, few activities are as charming as ice skating. Taos Ski Valley features a rink that opened in 2021, where you can skate to your heart's content or unwind by the large fireplaces at the Eis Haus and lower plaza. If you find yourself in Taos (about a 30-minute drive away) and craving some skating, head to the Taos Youth and Family Center, which offers admission for just $3 for adults and $2 for children and seniors.

4. Relax in nearby hot springs

If braving the cold isn’t your style, you can warm up at one of the hot springs located close to Taos. One popular spot, just 13 miles northwest of Taos, is Manby, also known as Stagecoach Hot Springs. The spring's water bubbles up at a cozy 100 degrees Fahrenheit, historically cherished by the Pueblo people long before colonization and later frequented by Spanish conquistadors in search of the Fountain of Youth.

In 1906, British entrepreneur Arthur Manby controversially acquired land rights in the area, and by 1922, he began constructing what he envisioned as a health resort. However, a devastating flood in 1927 thwarted his plans, and the remnants of the bathhouse can still be seen today. Today, the spring is a favored swimming spot for both tourists and locals, especially among the #VanLife crowd. Accessing the springs was once possible via Tune Drive, a private road that has since been closed to nonresidents due to its popularity. Now, the only ways to reach the springs are by floating down the Rio Grande or walking along its banks.

Another popular destination is Black Rock Hot Springs, named for the unique black moss lining its banks and rocky walls. This mud-bottomed pool, also around 13 miles from Taos, maintains a comfortable temperature of about 100 degrees. Although a short hike is necessary to access the springs, parking can be challenging with only four spots available. It’s worth the effort, though, and your four-legged friends are welcome at both Black Rock and Manby, so feel free to bring your dog along. Just a heads-up—clothing is ahem optional at both locations.

5. Explore the Taos Pueblo

For those passionate about history, a visit to the Taos Pueblo is essential. This multi-story adobe structure, built by the Pueblo people more than 1,000 years ago, is the only living Native American community recognized as both a UNESCO World Heritage site and a National Historic Landmark, continually inhabited for a thousand years. Constructed between 1000 and 1450 C.E., the pueblo caught the attention of Spanish explorers in 1540, who believed they had discovered one of the legendary cities of Cibola. The adobe buildings consist of multiple individual homes, crafted from a mixture of straw and mud, reinforced internally with pine and aspen timber, and adorned with traditional latilla ceilings and mud roofs. The community also hosts an annual three-day Taos Pueblo Pow Wow, where visitors can witness Native performers showcasing ceremonial dances.

6. Explore the San Francisco de Asis Church in Ranchos de Taos

Constructed by the Spanish in the early 1800s at the peak of their colonial influence, the San Francisco de Asis Church is the only original, fully preserved church still standing in the Taos region. Renowned artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, who referred to it as “one of the most beautiful buildings left in the United States by the early Spaniards,” and Ansel Adams have immortalized its striking facade in their works. Made of adobe, the church features two prominent bell towers and is adorned with three white crosses. Each June, volunteers and parishioners gather for “The Enjarre,” or “the mudding,” to replaster the building. Inside, you'll find original oil paintings, including a unique “Mystery Painting” that glows in the dark.

While it is recognized as a National Historic Landmark, the church remains an active place of worship (dedicated to the Catholic patron saint of animals, families, and merchants), so visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and show respect, especially during mass.

7. Discover the Taos Earthships

Just 20 minutes from the heart of Taos lies a fascinating desert marvel: the Greater World Earthship Community, featuring 79 unique homes constructed from natural and recycled materials. Completely off the grid and nearly self-sustaining, the Earthship concept was created by architect Michael Reynolds, a passionate advocate for sustainable living who began this project in 1969 after purchasing seven acres of rugged desert land near Taos with the vision of building eco-friendly, self-sufficient homes from salvaged materials. Today, the community is home to around 130 residents, and you might spot Environmental Management students from Western Colorado University working on maintenance and construction of these innovative homes.

Most Earthships are built using tires packed tightly with dirt, each weighing about 300 pounds. These dense, heavy tires provide exceptional insulation: a well-designed Earthship can regulate its own temperature without relying on electricity or fire, thanks to passive solar home design. Reynolds’s designs also incorporate complex systems for water collection, sewage treatment, and food production.

Beyond being a remarkable example of eco-friendly architecture, the Earthships are visually captivating. If you're looking for an unconventional getaway, you can book a stay in one of these homes. Rest assured, they come equipped with modern conveniences such as refrigerators, hot water, and even Netflix, all powered by wind-generated electricity.

8. Spend an afternoon at a museum

Despite its small stature, Taos boasts a variety of museums. The Millicent Rogers Museum was among the first in the state to highlight Hispanic artists and now specializes in Native American, Latino, and Anglo American art. Established in 1956 by the family of Millicent Rogers, a socialite and oil heiress with a passion for art collection, the museum features a vast array of Zuni and Hopi kachina figures, jewelry, pottery, paintings, and textiles.

The Harwood Museum of Art, New Mexico’s second oldest art museum, contains an impressive permanent collection that includes the Agnes Martin Gallery, showcasing seven paintings by the abstract expressionist artist, making it the only installation of its kind in the world.

Just a few minutes away is the renowned Taos Art Museum at Fechin House, once the residence of Russian artist Nicolai Fechin. This museum exclusively exhibits works by the Taos Society of Artists, a local group committed to preserving the creations of visual artists based in Taos.

For those more intrigued by Taos’s Wild West history, the Kit Carson Home and Museum near downtown is worth a visit. Dubbed “Taos’ Oldest Museum,” this Spanish colonial-style adobe house was acquired by the legendary frontiersman in 1843 for his third wife, Josefa. Inside, visitors can explore artifacts from Carson’s life, including a horno (an adobe oven), Josefa’s sewing box, Carson’s military scabbard, and his reliable .50 caliber Hawkins rifle.

9. Experience a hot air balloon ride

While Albuquerque often takes center stage for hot air ballooning, particularly with its renowned Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, it’s not the sole destination for soaring in a woven rattan basket. Consider taking a flight over Taos with a local outfitter and revel in the region’s remarkable geography, from the ancient Servilleta Basalt formation to its picturesque river valley. For an especially magical experience, schedule your ride at sunrise or sunset.

10. Grab a meal in town

Despite being a charming, tucked-away mountain community, Taos boasts a variety of dining options. One of the most beloved eateries is the Love Apple, known for its Southwestern-inspired dishes like tamales and bison fillet steaks, all made with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. If you’re in the mood for a refreshing drink after a day on the slopes, visit Taos Mesa Brewing’s Tap Room, where you can enjoy beers influenced by the local culture, such as the Kachina Peak pale ale and Amarillo Rojo toasted malt beer. For a straightforward, hearty meal, swing by 5 Star Burgers and try their Taos Burger, featuring a crispy, deep-fried green chile. Don’t miss Chokolá in the historic downtown area, which specializes in bean-to-bar chocolate—an ideal dessert to round off your meal.

Explore more: Where to Discover the Best Après-Ski in the U.S.

Accommodation options

The Blake

For a slope-side retreat, consider the Blake, a luxurious 80-room hotel located in Taos Ski Valley, offering a range of accommodations from standard rooms to penthouses. The Blake boasts all the amenities of a high-end ski lodge, including a pool, attentive staff, a fitness center, ski valet services, and an on-site restaurant, 192 at the Blake, which serves delicious New Mexican-inspired dishes.

El Monte Sagrado

If you prefer to stay in town, check out El Monte Sagrado, located just a few blocks from the historic downtown plaza. This property, managed by New Mexican hospitality brand Heritage Hotels and Resorts, features elegant Southwestern-style rooms, many of which come with cozy kiva fireplaces.

La Doña Luz Inn

For a unique lodging experience rich in history and adorned with charming decor, visit the La Doña Luz Inn. Parts of this building date back to 1802 and showcase vibrant Spanish-style mosaics and artwork. Its inviting and distinctly New Mexican ambiance makes it an ideal base for your Taos adventures.

Getting There

Numerous airlines operate flights into Albuquerque International Airport, from which it's a 2.5-hour drive to Taos. For travelers coming from Austin, Dallas, Carlsbad/San Diego, or Los Angeles, direct flights to Taos are available through JSX.