Taos, Taos Ski Valley

Taos Ski Valley blends Swiss/French/Austrian founders' roots with the traditions and customs of the local Hispanic and Pueblo Indian cultures and comes up with something unique and almost magical. Home of extreme skiing in the U.S., Taos' terrain was first tamed by founder Ernie Blake. But, it is not just a resort for experts, having loads of beginner and intermediate runs, and one of the nation's best ski schools. It also has an excellent children's day care and ski facility, some superb lodges, and beautiful scenery. Its hike-to terrain is world-famous, but don't come to party all night - most people are too tired after a day on the slopes to rock 'n' roll after sunset, though the venerable charms of the Hotel St. Bernard's bar always await. Taos used to be skiers' only, but no more. Snowboarders are welcome.ActivitiesSnowboarding: Cross Country Profile: Not available within the resort, but trails are found adjoing the area in the rugged Sangre de Cristos and further afield in the more gentle Tusas Mountains.LodgingAccomodations for over 1,000 with easy access to the lifts in the charming alpine village of the base area, and another 2,500 pillows available in the town of Taos just 19 miles away. Winter RecreationThe resort includes a new terrain park and a halfpipe. Regional outdoor activities include tubing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice skating, cross country skiing, white water rafting (in spring), hot air balloning, ice and fly fishing. The town of Taos boasts dozens of excellent art galleries, unique shops, art and history museums, movie theaters, live music nightly, and many festivals and other special events.