When we drove the Enchanted Circle Scenic Highway here in northeastern New Mexico a few days ago, we saved a visit to Taos Ski Valley for a future date (today!) It is in the center of the circle, about 30 miles north of Taos.
Originally, this area was settled by copper miners in the 1800s. Today it is a village and alpine ski resort at an elevation of 9,209' (although the top limit of the village is 12,500+ feet). In 1955, Ernie and Rhoda Blake founded a ski resort here. They lived here in an 11’ trailer and did not have electricity until 1963 when they moved into a condo.
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In 2013 the family sold the resort to billionaire conservationist, Louis Bacon. The Ernie Blake Snowsports School is rated as one of the best ski schools in North America.
Construction is underway in the center of the resort, but there is a parking area for visitors to explore the resort on foot. And, of course, some summer visitors were staying in the various hotels, lodges, and condos here. Here is a map of the resort.
This stand of aspens reminded us so much of Colorado. If you look closely, you can see a couple of tents nestled in among the trees.
Most of the shops were closed (of course) as many of them rent equipment to winter visitors.
There are several creeks that run through the area. Near the hiking trails is the North Fork and near the hotel/restaurants is the Lake Fork.
None of the chair lifts were in operation when we visited, but we enjoyed exploring the areas where they operate. The Kachina Lift (built in 2014) reaches a peak elevation of 12,481’ and is one of the highest elevation triple-chair lifts in North America.
John spotted the ski patrol and was a little alarmed at the number of stretchers they had outside! Neither of us are skiers (although my brother is serious about it), but we both appreciate the beauty of the mountains. We have decided we’re just too old to take up this sport! Visits in the summer to ski resorts though is fabulous…particularly the cooler temperatures during the middle of summer.
We decided to grab a bite to eat at The Straw Dog Cantina.
Our doggie, Sadie, was allowed to join us on the patio. The food was good and so was the margarita. It was just a lovely setting with the Lake Fork creek rushing under the deck. And, it was nice to be here when it was not crowded.
Our doggie, Sadie, was allowed to join us on the patio. The food was good and so was the margarita. It was just a lovely setting with the Lake Fork creek rushing under the deck. And, it was nice to be here when it was not crowded.
For additional information about the Taos Ski Valley, go to www.taosskivalley.com.
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