Ok, we know Taos is known for some of the best skiing in the country but that’s not all there is to do in Taos during the winter. For those who need a break from the slopes or prefer activities that don’t require a helmet, check out these five Taos winter activities that don’t include skiing.
Snowshoeing the canyons
Snowshoeing is a great alternative to explore the winter wilderness that surrounds Taos. The area boasts numerous hiking trails ideal for winter outings, all waiting to be explored. Experience the silence of winter meadows, whistling pines, and ice-framed creeks sifting through a winter wonderland.
The Taos ski valley offers ample snowshoe trails, including Williams Lake, Columbine Canyon trails, and Gavilan Trail, Yerba Canyon Trail, and Italianos Canyon Trail.
Snowshoes are fairly inexpensive to buy and even cheaper to rent. Check out one of these outfitters in town:
- Mudd N Flood
- Cottman’s Ski Shop
- Adventure ski rentals
Or if you don’t want to go it alone, take a guided snowshoe tour with Snowshoe Taos.
Historic walking tour
Learning about the rich history of Taos is one not-to-miss activity during your vacation. Almost every corner you turn, you are bound to discover a piece of narrative highlighting the town’s vivid past. Discover Taos’ past by taking the self-guided walking tour through the Taos Historic District.
Hot-air balloon ride
The International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque has made New Mexico the hot-air balloon capital of the world. Our own balloon festival, the Taos Mountain Balloon Rally is another fine example of our love for this colorful activity. There really isn’t a bad season to take a hot-air balloon ride, so why not hop aboard and enjoy the sites of winter from above? reliable morning wind patterns make for a calm and gentle ride as you soar above the ancient volcanic formations that make up the surrounding landscape. Gain new perspectives of the Taos Gorge and the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument as you look down upon these incredible landmarks.
Hot-air balloon tours can be booked at either one of these companies:
- Taos Balloon Rides
- Pueblo Balloon
Hot springs
Hidden amongst the deep canyons and valleys, Taos is home to a multitude of hot springs. The Rio Grande rift, a powerful geological feature that is responsible for creating landmarks like the Rio Grande Gorge, is also responsible for Taos’ the abundance of natural hot springs. Some of the more notable hot springs near Hotel La Fonda de Taos are the Mamby Hot Springs and Black Rock Hot Springs. Getting to these hot springs requires a bit of a hike so come prepared with hiking boots and a trusty map.
Ice Skating
The Taos Youth and Family Center houses an ice-rink each winter season that is open to the public offering a wide range of open skate times. This affordable activity can be enjoyed by the entire family is one of our favorite Taos winter activities.
Visit an art gallery
Taos is known for its creative artists and creators and whose artful expressions can be found in many local art galleries. Stop in one of the many galleries in town for a perfect afternoon outing when it’s just too cold outside. At Hotel La Fonda de Taos we have one of the most interesting and unique Taos art galleries. We are the only place in the world to house the D.H. Lawrence Forbidden Art collection. View nine oil paintings that were at one point in time forbidden due to the negativity that surrounded D.H. Lawrence at the time. It’s a true treat that can only be seen at Hotel La Fonda de Taos.
Stay at Hotel La Fonda de Taos
No matter what Taos winter activity you plan to add to your travel itinerary, all can be complemented with a stay at Hotel La Fonda de Taos. Conveniently located in the Taos Plaza, you are just minutes away from all that awaits you during your Taos experience. With comfortable and authentically decorated rooms, booking your stay with Hotel La Fonda is one of the best ways to experience the best of Taos.
