Best Time To Ski Taos + Worst Time

Taos Ski Valley is only a 2-hour drive northeast of Santa Fe, which happens to be one of my favorite cities in the world. That means I know a lot about Taos and its amazing skiing opportunities.

Taos is considered one of the best ski and snowboard resorts in the world, but picking the right time for your trip is crucial. I’ve had my share of ski trips that didn’t go smoothly because of poor snow conditions or crowded holiday periods. However, with more experience, I’ve learned exactly when to plan a ski trip for the best experience at different resorts.

Keep reading to find out the perfect time to ski at Taos and when it’s best to avoid visiting.

The Best Time To Ski Taos

The best time to ski at Taos is late January through early March. During this period, Taos usually gets plenty of snow, creating a solid base. There are also frequent storms from late January to early March, increasing your chances of skiing on fresh powder. This time is ideal because all the trails are typically open.

For a more detailed breakdown of each month, continue reading below.

November

Taos is the best ski resort in New Mexico and typically opens around mid-November, although this can vary depending on the snowfall each year. If you’re in New Mexico or nearby, November can be a decent time to visit to avoid crowds, especially if you’re keen on skiing early in the season.

However, I generally advise against planning a major trip to the resort in November. This is because only a limited number of runs are usually open, and the overall skiing conditions are not great at that time.

December

December marks the beginning of my excitement for the ski season. With more snow storms rolling in, more runs start to open up, making it a popular time for many to kick off their ski adventures. If you are near Taos, December can offer early access to runs, but similar to November, I advise against planning a big trip during this month.

During December, while runs are starting to open, the conditions may not be ideal. I’ve learned from past experience when I planned a trip too early in the season. Limited open areas meant repeating trails and waiting longer in lift lines, which didn’t create the best overall skiing experience.

And while the idea of planning a trip during the Christmas and New Year holidays may seem appealing, it’s important to note that these times often attract larger crowds and come with higher prices for accommodations and lift tickets. Therefore, I would recommend avoiding this period if possible.

January

January sees more trails opening up and the snow base growing. I’d suggest avoiding the early part of the month through MLK weekend due to crowds and the snow just starting to improve.

Personally, mid-to-late January is one of my favorite times for planning big ski trips. The snow is picking up, resorts are nearly fully operational, making it a fantastic start to the year. I’d recommend planning your trip for January after MLK weekend or later. You’ll likely enjoy excellent conditions, maybe even catching a few powder days.

February 

February is the best time for skiing at most resorts in the United States, but especially at Taos. This is when Taos typically receives the most snow, and all the trails are usually open.

It’s a fantastic period for a ski trip. If you can, it’s wise to steer clear of Presidents Day to avoid the crowds, but overall, February is an excellent time for skiing.

March

Early March is a fantastic time for a trip to Taos. Taos receives plenty of snow during March, and the runs remain open, providing an excellent skiing experience before spring arrives.

While any time in March can be enjoyable at Taos, I suggest aiming for early March. During this period, temperatures are still low, and there’s a better chance of encountering snowstorms.

April

Taos isn’t famous for skiing in April, but it’s still open for visits. It doesn’t have the spring skiing conditions you’d find at places like Mammoth Lakes or Mount Bachelor, so those might be better choices.

However, if you’re nearby, Taos in April is a good spot for some skiing or snowboarding before summer arrives.

The Worst Time To Ski At Taos

Avoid skiing at Taos in November, December, and late April as these periods often have less than ideal snow conditions, not all trails open, and may not provide the best experience compared to peak season.

FAQs About The Best Time To Ski At Taos

Continue diving in below as I answer a handful of frequently asked questions about the best time to ski at Taos. 

What time of year is best to ski in Taos?

The best time of year to ski in Taos is January, February, and March. 

What month does Taos get the most snow?

Taos gets the most snow in February.

Does Taos get good snow?

Taos gets great snow with about 300 inches of snowfall annually. 

Is Taos a difficult ski resort?

Taos is a difficult ski resort with about 51% of its terrain catered to expert skiers and snowboarders. 

Is Taos ski good for beginners?

Taos is a good ski resort for beginners with 24% of its slopes for newbies. While this might not sound like a ton, this is plenty of space for new skiers and snowboarders trying to master the basics and hit a few different runs at the resort. 

Final Thoughts On The Best Time To Ski Taos Ski Valley

Skiing at Taos is truly amazing, with the best time typically spanning from late January to early March. This period offers excellent snow conditions and most trails are open for skiing. It’s wise to steer clear of holiday periods like MLK or Presidents Day due to crowds and higher prices.

Overall, scheduling your ski trip to Taos during these months guarantees a fantastic experience on the slopes.