Beginner Guide
Everything you need to know to be prepared for your first visit to Taos Ski Valley.
Get Tickets#1 SKI SCHOOL IN NORTH AMERICA
The Ernie Blake Snowsport School offers expert instruction for all ages and abilities, helping you build skills and confidence on every run.
SKI WEEKS
More than a lesson, a Ski Week builds skills, confidence, and connection, a Taos tradition at the #1 Ski School in North America—always ending with a legendary martini tree.
CHILDCARE
Our on-site childcare center provides a safe, nurturing space for children 6 weeks to 3 years old, so you can enjoy the mountain knowing your little one is in good hands.
RENTALS
Located just steps from Lift 1, Taos Rentals offers the newest, highest-quality fleet of skis and snowboards, available to book online or in person.
Our expert staff will match you with the perfect gear for any age or ability, and with early pickup starting at 3PM plus complimentary overnight storage on multi-day rentals, getting on the mountain is easier than ever.
Plus, all First Time and Children’s Lessons include a lift tickets and rentals.
WHAT TO WEAR
- Helmet: Included with all children’s lessons and all children and adult rentals. Additional helmet rentals are available for rent from Taos Sports Rentals.
- Gloves or mittens: Waterproof and insulated to keep hands warm and dry.
- Goggles or sunglasses: Not included in rentals; eye protection is strongly recommended.
- Water-resistant winter coat and snow pants: Not included in rentals.
- Warm layers: Dress in layers you can remove as needed. Avoid cotton.
- Ski or snowboard socks: One pair of long, winter socks only - do not double up.
- Sunscreen and SPF lip balm: Sun reflects off the snow, increasing exposure.
- Appropriate footwear: Bring sturdy footwear for walking around the mountain when not in ski or snowboard boots.
Forget something? No worries. Taos Sports at the base of Lift 1 has you covered.
PRE-ARRIVAL TIPS FOR SUCCESS
If you purchase online or over the phone, you will receive a pre-arrival email 3 days prior to your visit with important details like when to arrive and where to go. Guests who have opted out of emails will not receive this message.
- Parking: Free parking is available, with optional paid spots closer to the resort. Free shuttles run daily in winter from 8AM - 5:30PM, and parking attendants are available to assist.
- Download the Taos Ski Valley App: Get the latest resort information and updates. Apple | Android
- Cashless resort: Taos Ski Valley does not accept cash and has no ATMs on the mountain.
- Lockers: Daily locker rentals are available on the lower level of the Resort Center next to Lost & Found.
- Arrive early: Snowsports lesson guests should allow time to check in and pick up rentals. Reserved rentals can be picked up as early as 3PM the day before.
SKIING & RIDING AT TAOS
Green | Blue | Black
Understanding your ability level is key to making the most of your time on the mountain.
On our trail map, green circles mark the easiest routes, blue squares indicate intermediate terrain, and black diamonds are for advanced and expert skiers and riders.
Keep in mind, trail ratings reflect the relative difficulty within Taos Ski Valley and may not match the standards of other ski areas. If you’re new to Taos, we recommend starting on a green run to get a feel for the terrain.
BEGINNER
LEVEL 1
Never skied or snowboarded before. Excited to learn and try something new!
GREEN ZONE
LEVEL 2
Able to ride a chairlift and control your speed while comfortably skiing/riding on easy green terrain. You’re ready for more challenging green runs.
GREEN TO BLUE ZONE
LEVEL 3
Able to make parallel turns/connect heel and toe side turns while snowboarding on greens and easy blues.
You’re comfortable with variable terrain.
BUILD ZONE
LEVEL 4
Able to ski ride small moguls on gentle blue runs and control your speed on groomed steep blue terrain. You’re ready to try easy black runs.
ADVANCED TO EXPERT
LEVEL 5
Able to ski/ride the entire mountain, including variable snow and double black terrain. Looking to explore black, extreme terrain.
SAFETY ON THE MOUNTAIN
A great day on the mountain starts with staying safe. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned skier, taking a few moments to understand safety guidelines helps protect you and those around you.
Your Responsibility Code
The Skier and Rider Responsibility Code reminds guests that while snowsports involve inherent risks, many can be reduced through common sense and personal awareness.
Lift Riding Information
As part of your Responsibility Code, it’s essential to know how to load, ride, and unload safely on the chairlift.
Acclimating to the Altitude
At 9,300 feet, the altitude at Taos Ski Valley can take some getting used to. Follow a few simple tips to stay hydrated, and energized.
Frequently Asked Questions
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
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