Experiencing New Mexico is like stepping off the plane into another country. Everything about the southwest is completely different and wonderful. The state is characterized by funky art and architecture, spicy food, desert plains, and big mountains. And I love it. One of my favorite places to visit is Taos, New Mexico, an artsy town with outdoor activities for all seasons.
I love the southwest vibes. Ok, I just really love turquoise jewelry, aztec patterned sweaters, and green chiles. There’s an artsy flair and spice in New Mexico that permeates through the culture. From the chile-infused cuisine to the distinguishing architecture of adobe homes to traditional and contemporary art, New Mexican is filled with color and life.
New Mexico borders Colorado, but it took me years to finally head south in the spring instead of west to Utah. Once I crossed into New Mexico, I realized how much the state offers in terms of outdoor activities and art. Painted in warm desert hues, the stunning landscape is a mix of grassy plains, high desert, and mountainous regions. The Rocky Mountains are filled with forests and snow capped peaks reaching up to 12,000+ feet. With a mix of landscapes and natural attractions, there is ample opportunity to explore trail networks largely on your own.
What I love about New Mexico
Mmm, the food. I love New Mexican hatch green chiles. Especially in chili rellenos, which I rarely order other than when I’m in the southwest. From sauces to spices or topped on sandwiches, the hatch green chile is one of the defining flavors of New Mexican cuisine.
Turquoise is another prominent feature of the New Mexican region. Southwestern art and fashion have permeated into mainstream culture and I’m all for it. I love turquoise jewelry and all of it has come from my travels through the southwest. There are some stores around the main square of Taos, but I prefer to find smaller shops on the outskirts of town. My favorite finds and most unique pieces have been at trading posts, like a consignment shop of the region.
Taos is a longtime artist community that draws in athletes for the many outdoor activities in close proximity to town. Whether you’re looking to ski, bike, eat, or shop your way through art galleries, Taos is a great destination if you’re looking for both culture and adventure packed into one trip.
When is the Best Time to Visit New Mexico?
Located in northern New Mexico, Taos backs up to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Temps stay cooler in the high desert climate, but the best time to visit for hiking and mountain biking is spring and fall. Winter enthusiasts can visit Taos Ski Valley in the winter months, preferably January through March. The base elevation of the mountain starts high at 9,300 feet and rises to almost 12,500 feet, but it’s a rocky base underneath, so it’s best to wait for the mountain to fill in a bit before you head for the steeper terrain.
Hiking Trails in Taos, New Mexico
Devisadero Peak:
With views of the Taos Valley, the 5.6 mile Devisadero Trail can be done as a loop for an out-and-back trail. The full loop includes 1,300 feet of climbing and can be hiked in either direction. For an out-and-back trail, hike the loop clockwise so you’re immediately rewarded with views until you decide to turn around. The trail is located on NM-64, just southeast of town and is accessible to mountain bikes as well.
Rio Grande Gorge West Rim Trail:
Following the Rio Grande Gorge, this out-and-back trail is easy, flat and has beautiful views down 800 feet to the river below. Starting at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge off of NM-64, it is the 2nd highest bridge on the US Highway system. The trail heads south of the bridge from a parking lot found on the west side.
Best Mountain Biking Trails in Taos, New Mexico
There are some great mountain biking trails in Taos. While the trail network isn’t extensive near town, there are some worthwhile places for fantastic downhill mountain biking opportunities.
South Boundary Trail
If you’re looking for a long ride, the South Boundary Trail offers numerous options to ride this trail as a one-way shuttle ride or as a loop if you’re feeling ambitious. Shuttle Taos takes riders to the top of the 20+ mile downhill trail located off of NM-64 near Angel Fire. Alternatively, bikers can ride up the technical Ojitos trail to El Nogal to connect with the South Boundary Trail.
Angel Fire Bike Park
Tear up some downhill trails at the Angel Fire Bike Park, a 40 minute drive from Taos. Over 60 miles of purpose-built trails offer features that cater to all mountain bike levels. From flowy trails with man made features through the trees to technical trails with rocks, drops, logs and jumps, Angel Fire’s lift-served terrain is a downhiller’s dream.
Skiing in Taos New Mexico
Taos Ski Valley, located 20 miles north of Taos, is the largest ski resort in New Mexico and offers the best skiing near Taos. It may not be easy to get to, but it’s a true gem if you love steep and deep skiing. About 50% of the terrain is expert, with steep runs off the top peaks at 12,500 feet. The bottom half of the ski resort offers more mellow groomers, all of which funnel back to the historic base area.
The base area has a Bavarian style charm that is found throughout the architecture. Step inside, and there’s the New Mexican flair.
Hot Springs Near Taos, New Mexico
Built in 1916, Ojo Caliente is one of the oldest natural health spas in the country and is about 45 minutes from Taos. Four outdoor natural geothermal pools and a mud bath are rich in natural minerals to rejuvenate the mind and body. It’s a perfect day-trip, or stay a little longer in one of their beautifully southwest appointed suites or cottages. The grounds at Ojo Caliente offer a tranquil environment with hiking trails, yoga, desert-inspired spa therapies, and an on-site restaurant offering healthy New Mexican cuisine.
Camping Around Taos, New Mexico
There is no camping the town of Taos. With national forest nearby, there are options for campgrounds and dispersed camping if you venture outside of city limits.
Campgrounds
There is only one campground near Taos. Las Petacas Campground is located on Hwy 64, on the southwest side of town.
Dispersed Camping
There are numerous spots for dispersed camping around Taos.
If you can snag a spot, the road to Taos Ski Valley along Highway 150, offers some dispersed camping spots. The road winds through a narrow canyon along a river, so while the spots are beautiful and easily accessible, they are limited.
If you plan on skiing, this is one of the few ski resorts that allows you to park in their parking lot. We stayed on a very cold, -10 degree night, but we were only a 100 yards from the lifts in the morning. Please double check with the ski resort, as regulations can change.
Overlooking the Rio Grande River to the west of town, there are numerous dirt roads that wind along the west side of the canyon wall, south of Highway 64. We found plenty of open spots with fire rings in the grasslands. This area does get windy due to the open, flat land, but offers great views of the surrounding area.
Let’s Go!
Ready to explore New Mexico? No matter what time of year you visit this magical state, there is something to accommodate every traveler and adventurer.