Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico
Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Hit the Slopes at Taos Ski Valley
With over 300 inches of light, dry powder each winter, Taos Ski Valley is a skier and snowboarder's dream destination. Nestled high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos offers some of the best skiing in New Mexico with steep chutes, wide open bowls, and tree runs that seem to go on forever.
For advanced and expert skiers, the highlight is hiking to the top of Kachina Peak. At over 12,000 feet, it's the highest lift-served terrain in the state. From the summit, you can pick your line down wide open black diamond runs with views that stretch over 100 miles on a clear day. The hiking and skiing combo allows you to earn your turns while taking in the stunning high alpine scenery.
Intermediate skiers will enjoy the long, rolling cruisers accessed from the Chair 4 lift. This area has shorter lift lines and plentiful terrain for working on carved turns. For a more relaxed ski day, try the Bavarian Restaurant run which is perfectly groomed and ends at an on-mountain beer hall.
The Ernie Blake Snowsports School at Taos is legendary, with generations of instructors passing on their skills. They offer a full range of classes from never-ever beginners to advanced mogul clinics. Taos is a fantastic place to learn with wide beginner trails and few crowds. Private and group lessons are available for adults and kids.
The ample snowfall also makes for prime snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Take a guided snowshoe tour and learn about the ecology of the high mountain environment. Or explore on your own, using the trail map to find secluded areas away from the crowds. The cross-country trail system meanders through ponderosa pine and aspen groves with options for skate and classic skiing.
Après ski is an integral part of the Taos experience. Sitting outdoors bundled up with a hot drink while recounting the day's adventures never gets old. For beers and burgers, try the Bavarian or Martini Tree Bar at the base. Or head to town where local favorites like the Alley Cantina and Taos Mesa Brewing quench thirsts.
What else is in this post?
- Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Hit the Slopes at Taos Ski Valley
- Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Snowshoe Through Carson National Forest
- Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Go Ice Skating at Taos Plaza
- Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Take a Sleigh Ride at Wild Earth Llamas
- Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Marvel at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge
- Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Tour the Taos Pueblo
- Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Shop Local Art Galleries and Boutiques
- Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Indulge in Après Ski Dining and Nightlife
Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Snowshoe Through Carson National Forest
Blanketing the Sangre de Cristo Mountains outside of Taos is the pristine Carson National Forest. Its 1.5 million acres contain alpine meadows, steep river canyons, and ponderosa pine forests perfect for exploring on snowshoes. Strapping these oversized “tennis rackets” to your feet allows you to float through waist-deep powder and access scenic areas not reachable by car.
One favorite snowshoeing destination is to the Williams Lake trailhead. From the parking area, follow the trail as it gently climbs through ponderosa pines dusted with snow. At 1.5 miles in, arrive at the frozen surface of Williams Lake, whose clear blue waters reflect the rugged peaks beyond. In winter, a hush falls over the forest and lake, inviting peaceful contemplation.
Venture further to find Williams Lake’s less visited sibling, King’s Lake. Here you might spot animal tracks crossing the trail, including elk taking advantage of the lighter snowfall underneath the forest canopy. Listen for the hammering of woodpeckers and chickadees flitting between tree branches.
For more ambitious snowshoers, connect these two lakes via the Middle Fork Lake Trail. You’ll traverse steep hillsides offering panoramic mountain vistas, eventually meeting the Rio Hondo river cascading over boulders and fallen trees. While the route has significant elevation changes, snowshoes make the inclines less strenuous.
After working up an appetite in the cold mountain air, stop for a trailside lunch among the ponderosas. A thermos filled with green chile stew or posole, and some homemade tortillas, make the perfect winter picnic. Sit on a downed log and take in the tranquil wilderness as you refuel.
Another scenic snowshoeing destination near Taos is the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument. This protected area contains the Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River Gorge, considered one of New Mexico’s natural wonders. From the trailhead, snowshoe down under the steel arms of the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. At 650 feet above the racing waters below, it’s the fifth highest bridge in the U.S.
The monument’s rim provides endless photo opportunities with the gorge’s famous red and orange cliffs. Look for bighorn sheep navigating steep ledges with precision. When snow covers the trail, you’ll feel like you’re exploring new terrain due to the transformed landscape.
One advantage of snowshoeing is that it allows you to forge your own path. Roam into pristine meadows and pine forests away from the crowds. With a map and navigation skills, you can design custom routes through Carson National Forest and really immerse yourself in the rustic Taos wilderness. Just be sure to stay on trail when nearing cliff edges.
The right gear ensures safe and comfortable snowshoeing. Look for snowshoes with aggressive traction meant for steep terrain. Trekking poles help with balance while providing upper body engagement. Layer moisture-wicking base layers under insulation like fleece and down. Top it off with a waterproof shell jacket and pants. Pack extra gloves and chemical hand warmers for when fingers get cold.
Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Go Ice Skating at Taos Plaza
The outdoor rink draws locals and visitors alike for some exercise, fresh air, and old-fashioned fun. It’s the picture of wholesome, small-town entertainment that feels worlds away from modern distractions. “Skating on the plaza just puts you in the holiday spirit,” says Taos local Marissa Herrera. “It reminds me of when I was a kid and would go skating with my family every weekend. I still try to go as much as possible each winter to reconnect with that nostalgia.”
Vendors sell hot cocoa, churros, and other goodies to fuel the chilly escapades. An on-site shop rents skates to those who didn’t pack their own. Prices run about $12 for adults and $9 for kids 12 and under.
While some serious figure skaters can be spotted practicing spins, most are casual gliders of all ages and abilities. Toddlers tentatively push wooden trainers across the ice, while seniors gracefully skim across in sweaters and scarves. Teens show off and occasionally wipe out trying to imitate hockey stops.
“It’s fun watching people support each other out there,” says Taos visitor Jeff Simons. “Total strangers will reach out a hand if someone’s struggling, or strangers will strike up conversations about simple things like favorite holiday foods.”
The communal experience reflects the civic pride of Taos Plaza as the historic heart of town. The central gathering place dates back to the early 1800s, with surrounding adobe buildings continuing ancient Pueblo designs. Today, the plaza hosts concerts, art fairs, and the main stage of the Taos Pueblo Powwow.
Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Take a Sleigh Ride at Wild Earth Llamas
For a truly unique winter experience in Taos, take a sleigh ride at Wild Earth Llamas. Nestled at 8,500 feet within the Carson National Forest, Wild Earth offers tranquil excursions through snow-blanketed meadows and pine forests. Guests bundle beneath cozy blankets as teams of friendly llamas pull wooden sleighs on private 2-hour tours.
“It was like something out of a Christmas movie,” said Sara Jennings after her recent Wild Earth adventure. “The quiet of the winter forest combined with the llamas' jingle bells was magical. We loved getting to interact with the llamas too - they each have their own personality!”
Wild Earth Llamas is the passion project of owners Mark and Laurie Summers. They moved to Taos in the 1990s, later acquiring a herd of llamas to join their alpacas and adopting a caretaker philosophy toward the land. “We wanted to share this special place with others in a respectful way,” explained Mark. “The sleigh rides allow people to immerse themselves in nature.”
Each sleigh holds 2 adults bundled under blankets, plus a guide who drives the llama team. Groups and families can book multiple sleighs. Tours start with introductions to the llamas like Picasso, Dali, and Van Gogh. Guests can pet their long necks and feed them carrots. “It was amazing to see the bond between the llamas and guides,” said visitor Ryan Bailey. “You can tell they genuinely care for the animals’ well-being.”
Gliding through the snowy landscape behind sure-footed llamas is blissfully quiet aside from jingle bells around the llamas’ necks. Guides identify winter plant life and point out animal tracks. Northern New Mexico’s brilliant blue skies create a vivid backdrop to evergreen trees frosted in snow. “It was like traveling through a winter postcard,” said sleigh rider Marie Chavez. “We felt so present in the beauty surrounding us.”
About halfway through the tour, the sleigh stops at a scenic vista for hot tea, coffee, and snacks. Guests can relax and asking guides questions about the llamas while taking in mountain views. Then it’s back aboard the sleighs to return to the ranch while the sun sets behind the peaks.
Wild Earth also offers overnight stays in lushly decorated casitas steps away from the llamas’ pasture. Guests can book private sunset sleigh rides and help with llama care like feeding and grooming. “We loved staying on-site and being immersed in the whole llama experience,” said visitor Tracy Willis. “It was an unforgettable way for our family to disconnect from screens and stress and reconnect with nature.”
Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Marvel at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge
Spanning 650 feet above the Rio Grande River, the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge offers daring views of one of New Mexico’s most impressive natural wonders. This steel arch bridge was completed in 1965 and remains the fifth highest bridge in the United States. Visitors from around the world travel to Taos to walk or drive across this engineering marvel and take in the majestic gorge scenery.
“Crossing the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge was easily one of the highlights of my trip to New Mexico,” said visitor Amanda Pierce. “I’m terrified of heights but it was worth facing my fear. The views of the gorge are stunning, and you get a new appreciation for how remote and rugged this landscape is.”
The bridge crosses the Rio Grande just 10 miles northwest of Taos, making it an easy day trip. Parking areas on both sides provide scenic overlooks, with paths leading right up to the bridge deck. Brave souls can walk the span’s pedestrian sidewalk, peering directly down 650 feet through the steel grated deck.
“I walked out to the middle of the bridge where you can look straight down the chasm between the sides,” said visitor Ryan Bailey. “It really gets your heart pumping! But seeing how the bright orange gorge walls contrast with the river below is an awesome sight.”
For the less adventurous, simply standing at the guardrails gives you a sense of the bridge’s height as tractor trailer trucks barrel across. You’ll also enjoy panoramic views up and down the canyon, with sheer cliffs and pine forests stretching for miles. This northern New Mexico landscape often surprises first-time visitors expecting desert.
“I didn’t realize there were such tall mountains and deep canyons in this part of New Mexico,” said visitor Jeff Simons. “The bridge lets you really grasp the scale and force behind carving out the gorge over millennia.”
A short trail near the parking area leads to the riverside directly under the bridge. Here you’ll find calm pools perfect for wading in summer or photographing the bridge from below. Star-gazing is also popular from the banks of the Rio Grande.
Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Tour the Taos Pueblo
Step back in time over 1,000 years by touring the ancient Taos Pueblo village. This is the largest intact Pueblo site surviving from the 12th century, with stone and adobe walls rising five stories high. Unlike kitschy tourist attractions, the living village provides a profound connection to enduring Native traditions.
Taos Pueblo remains home to Native Tiwa speaking people, with buildings, spiritual practices, and art forms evolving over centuries. Roughly 150 residents inhabit the Pueblo year-round without electricity, plumbing, or heating. They uphold centuries-old rituals like harvesting crops, procuring water from a sacred stream, and wood-burning bread ovens.
Adobe structures display ingenious architectural techniques like strategically angled walls and compact living spaces that conserve heat in winter. Many homes and exterior walls still contain original fabric despite the passage of time. This continuity across generations is evident walking through the dirt plaza.
"There's something profound about materials being used in the exact same way for hundreds of years," said visitor Jeff Simons. "You gain new respect for the wisdom embodied in these ancient structures and social organization."
While the Pueblo's exterior can be explored independently, interior access on guided tours reveals even more mysteries. Tour guides explain symbols and artworks painted on walls, along with uses of different spaces. Traditional guides impart tribal history through an indigenous lens often omitted elsewhere.
Seasonal dances at the Pueblo offer a portal into Native spiritual customs little changed since Plains tribes first encountered the Pueblo people. In winter, Corn Dances give thanks for past harvests and seek blessings for seasons ahead. Spring and summer see more colorful dances that all visitors describe with a single word: magical.
The Pueblo sells crafts like jewelry, pottery, and wood carvings created by village artists. Raw materials come from the tribe's sacred lands. Purchases directly support the community rather than third-party retailers.
Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Shop Local Art Galleries and Boutiques
Beyond the ski slopes and historic sites, Taos offers a thriving arts scene that reflects the creative soul of northern New Mexico. Dozens of local galleries and boutiques in downtown Taos showcase regional talents in mediums like painting, sculpture, jewelry, textiles, and more. Wandering these locally owned shops provides the perfect antidote to cookie-cutter retail, with eye-catching works that evoke the spirit of the high desert.
“I loved exploring the little art galleries around the Taos Plaza,” said visitor Amanda Pierce. “It felt like every one had its own vibe and specialty, from contemporary landscapes to Native American-made weavings.”
Popular stops include Studios on the Plaza, home to 15 resident artists crafting Southwestern-style paintings. The Harwood Museum of Art exhibits modern and traditional works by the Taos Society of Artists. At Arnold & Porter Fine Art, find historic black and white photography capturing pueblo life and landscapes from the 20th century.
Beyond the plaza, the Town of Taos Visitors Center features aCOLLECTION of handcrafted jewelry, clothing, and knick-knacks made by the area's Native, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures. “This shop brings together the diversity that makes Taos’s art scene so vibrant,” said visitor Ryan Bailey.
For exquisite custom jewelry, Couse's Studio & Gallery charms visitors with its Southwest motifs and Albuquerque-born owner's eye for bold, elegant design. Meanwhile, KC Ellis Jewelry focuses on wearable art pieces inspired by nature like textured metals and unusual gemstones.
At El Rincón Trading Post, find authentic Native American pottery, drums, rugs, and more imported directly from regional tribes. Sales benefit local families on reservations and pueblos. “You can’t find these unique handicrafts anywhere else,” explained owner Rueben Romero, a Taos Pueblo member. “Our mission is sharing the beauty of Native art while providing economic opportunity.”
Beyond downtown, don’t miss historic Ledoux Street’s clusters of galleries within preserved adobe homes. At Brandon Reese Gallery, contemporary landscape paintings capture New Mexico’s vibrant colors and clear light. Next door, Vue Front Gallery exhibits playful sculptures alongside live glass-blowing demonstrations.
“It was so cool watching artists at work inside those old adobe buildings,” recalled visitor Jeff Simons. “And the funky sculpture gardens you’d randomly come across - Taos just has an artsy vibe you don't find other places."
Bundle Up for Taos: 10 Snowy Activities to Embrace the Winter Charm of New Mexico - Indulge in Après Ski Dining and Nightlife
After a day hitting the slopes at Taos Ski Valley, the prospect of relaxing fireside with a craft beer or signature cocktail is enticing. Taos offers a lively mix of high-mountain restaurants and nightlife to recharge for the next powder day. From Euro-inspired lodges to Old West saloons, you'll find the perfect spot for apres-ski socializing.
"The skiing at Taos is amazing, but the dining and nightlife give the whole visit a fun, festive vibe," says snow enthusiast Jack Cole. "It feels very welcoming to out-of-towners looking to unwind."
For Bavarian flavor at the slopes edge, Alpine Pub in the Snakedance Lodge pairs German brews with schnitzel, strudel, and fondue. Gather around the two-story fireplace for an elevated take on pub grub. Or savor mountain views dining at 192 at the St. Bernard lodge, where dishes like bison burgers and Rocky Mountain trout hit the spot after working up an appetite skiing.
Down in town, perennial favorite Doc Martin's serves southwestern cuisine and craft cocktails inside a converted Victorian home. Sip their signature Duke City Lemonade or a whiskey flight in the cozy bar. Live music gets visitors dancing to rock, blues, and folk many nights.
The popular Alley Cantina on a side street off Taos Plaza combines top-notch margaritas with Mexican fare in a funky yet romantic setting. Grab a seat around the cast iron wood stove or opt for the bloom-filled courtyard come spring. Late nights often feature live flamenco music and belly dancers.
For beers, nachos, and sports watching in a lively environment, The Range Cafe and Saloon is a local institution for visitors and townies. Refreshing margaritas and microbrews complement their menu of starters, salads, sandwiches and steaks.
There's no shortage of classic watering holes where locals mix with visitors too. The Adobe Bar at the Historic Taos Inn has catered to parched souls since the 1930s inside New Mexico's oldest hotel. Taste more than 100 premium tequilas amid decor paying homage to Taos' artistic heritage. Or pull up a bar stool at The World Famous Historic Millicent Rogers Museum, where the saloon first opened in 1890. Whiskey is the star alongside exhibits on the museum's namesake heiress and stylist.