Winter in Taos, New Mexico: A 3-Day Itinerary with Outdoor Adventure and Hot Springs
There’s something enchanting about the small town of Taos, New Mexico, that draws people in. Nestled in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos is a destination that blends rich cultural heritage with the thrill of outdoor adventure.
Crowds diminish as snow blankets the adobe structures, making winter an ideal time to experience Taos’s unique charm. This 3-day itinerary perfectly balances outdoor adventure and pure relaxation. You’ll get to explore the magic of Taos, play in the snow at Taos Ski Valley, and soak in a natural hot spring at Ojo Caliente.
When to Visit Taos, New Mexico
Although the high desert climate in Taos makes any time of year enjoyable, this itinerary focuses on Taos in the wintertime. The winter months reveal Taos’s quieter side, perfect for those seeking both tranquility and outdoor adventure.
The Taos Ski Valley typically opens at the end of November and sees an average of 165 inches of snow each year. The coldest month is January, with an average temperature of 24.8° F and lows of 10.4° F. If you’re seeking the deepest powder, February and March are usually your best bet.
Tips for a Successful Trip
The great thing about this itinerary is that it doesn’t take much pre-planning to have an unforgettable experience. But I wanted to list a few things to ensure you’re prepared for the activities and places you’ll visit.
- Book accommodations in advance. Decide where to stay each night and book it before your trip. This will ensure you have a place to stay and limit the driving you’ll have to do.
- Bring layers of clothing. You’ll likely experience some weather differences while following this itinerary. Pack enough clothing to keep you warm in the ski valley and some lighter layers for hiking and exploring Taos.
- Bring sandals, a water bottle, and mineral (oil-free) sunscreen for the hot springs.
- Download offline maps for navigation without cell service.
Day One – Explore the Magic of Taos
Arrive in Taos
Take whatever amount of time you have on this first day to explore Taos’s charm. This can be as simple as a self-guided walking tour to see all the unique adobe structures, shopping at the plaza, or visiting a museum.
Lunch in Taos
If you arrive in time for lunch, I recommend grabbing a bite at the Taos Mesa Brewing Taos Tap Room or The Burger Stand at Taos Ale House. Taos Mesa Brewing has pizza and smaller upscale bites, and The Burger Stand has big juicy burgers with a mouth-watering selection of french fries. Both places serve an impressive selection of New Mexican-brewed beer.
Dinner in Taos
Doc Martin’s Restaurant is a staple in Taos. It serves authentic southwestern dishes using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is connected to the Historic Taos Inn on Taos’s main street. They make a mean chili relleno that pairs perfectly with a spicy margarita from the Adobe bar.
Enjoy a Cocktail in Taos
Taos isn’t known for its nightlife, but if you want to keep the night going after dinner, you won’t have to go far. The Adobe Bar is connected to the Historic Taos Inn and serves drinks for Doc Martin’s restaurant. They have live music every night from 6 – 9 p.m.
Across the street is The Lounge by Rolling Still Distillery, an infused vodka-tasting bar. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the all-season patio is equipped with heaters and fire rings. This place can get pretty busy even in winter, but if you’re lucky, you’ll snag a seat by the fire.
Where to Stay in Taos
The Historic Taos Inn is a must-stay place if you are looking for a hotel rich in history and culture. The pet-friendly hotel is located in Taos’s historic district on Main Street and is within walking distance of most places. I spent two nights here and loved the adobe-style rooms and Kiva fireplaces. One bundle of wood is included with your stay.
Another Option: If you prefer a more eccentric outdoorsy experience, I highly recommend Hotel Luna Mystica. This vintage trailer hotel and campground is located 8 miles outside of Taos. You can stay in one of their uniquely decorated vintage trailers or book a primitive camping space.
I reserved a primitive camping space for 3 nights at $25/night. The campsite cost includes parking, access to the guest lounge, on-site shower facilities, and unmatched views of the Mesa and Taos Ski Valley.
Day Two – Taos Ski Valley
Breakfast Burritos in Arroyo Seco
Start your day by grabbing a delicious plant-based breakfast at The Wake and Take in Arroyo Seco on your way to the ski valley. They have delicious fresh options, including burritos, bowls, coffee, juices, and smoothies.
Carve Some Turns at Ski Taos
The mountain at Taos Ski Valley stretches from a base of 9,350 feet to a summit elevation of 12,481 feet and offers terrain for all experience levels. Kachina Peak towers over the valley and hosts one of the highest triple chairs in North America.
The vibes are always high at Taos Ski Valley. While you’re on the mountain, you’ll likely meet some pretty chill locals and visitors alike. There are a variety of runs suitable for all skill levels, but Taos is known for its challenging terrain that can be found off of the Kachina chair.
Ikon pass holders get access to 7 days at Ski Taos. If you are not a pass holder, daily lift tickets can be purchased in advance or on the mountain.
If skiing or snowboarding aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other activities on the mountain to keep you entertained. Grab a pair of rental skates and hit the ice rink in the main village. If you want to try something more low-key, check out some shops in the village or grab a good book and cozy up next to the fire.
Aprés Ski
After an exhilarating day on the slopes, take some time to unwind at après-ski. The Bavarian Restaurant, nestled at the base of lift 4, offers a cozy alpine retreat where you can savor hearty German beer and cuisine by a roaring fireplace.
For a more casual experience, head to Taos Ale House in the heart of Taos Ski Valley. This local favorite boasts a diverse array of craft brews, complemented by a laid-back ambiance.
Where to Stay
One of my favorite things about Taos Ski Valley is their legal overnight parking spaces for camper vans, RVs, campers, and trailers. After a long day of winter adventures, it’s so nice to return to a cozy van, eat a hot dinner, and sleep slopeside.
The parking spaces can be booked in advance or on-site if spots are available. Arrival time is after 5:00 p.m., and departure time is 4:00 p.m. the next day. Campers can book up to 7 days in the overnight lot.
Another Option: Book a night at The Blake in Taos Ski Valley if you’re looking for a luxurious place to stay. The Blake offers a variety of room options and an incredibly inviting outdoor hot tub. They even have a spa if you want to treat yourself.
Day Three – Ojo Caliente Hot Springs
Coffee at Taos Ski Valley
Walk to the main village for coffee and breakfast at Black Diamond Espresso. Sip your espresso slope-side, taking in the breathtaking backdrop of snow-draped peaks and crisp morning air.
Snowshoe Adventure at Taos Ski Valley
After fueling up for a day full of adventure, grab your snowshoes and head out on one of the stunning snow-covered trails in Taos Ski Valley. If you didn’t bring snowshoes, you can rent them at Cottam’s Ski Shop in the main village.
The Bull of the Woods and Williams Lake Trailhead are popular winter hiking options. The Bull of the Woods trailhead is within walking distance of any ski parking lot at the base of the mountain. The Williams Lake trailhead is higher up the mountain at the end of a steep road. I would avoid the upper trailhead on snowy or icy roads without 4WD or chains.
Bull of the Woods and Williams Lake Trailhead – Mapped
Ojo Caliente Hot Springs
If you’re ready to relax and ease your tired muscles, take the 50-mile scenic drive from the Taos Ski Valley to Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa. This rejuvenating oasis is nestled in the high desert and is one of the oldest health spas in the country.
Ojo Caliente boasts a variety of mineral-rich hot springs, each offering unique therapeutic benefits. Day soaking is available without reservations. Passes are sold at entry and are first come, first served.
Where to Stay in Ojo Caliente
At Ojo Caliente, lodging options harmonize with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes, offering a diverse range of accommodations to suit every preference. From rustic cottages and vintage trailers to luxurious suites, you can choose the level of comfort that complements your desired experience.
Another Option: Ojo Caliente also offers campsites within walking distance of the hot springs for those seeking a closer connection with nature. All overnight guests, including campers, get a 20% discount on access to the hot springs and extended soaking hours.
I paid $45 for a one-night stay at the campground (call for current pricing), which is more than I would typically pay. But it was worth it, given all the amenities, discounted hot springs access, close proximity to hiking trails, and free yoga each morning.
Where to Eat in Ojo Caliente
The Artesian Restaurant at Ojo Caliente is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and serves seasonally inspired, locally sourced fare. Dinner reservations are required, but carry-out options are also available for all meals.
Conclusion
Taos is a southwestern gem and is an incredible winter destination in New Mexico. During your visit, I encourage you to take some time to learn about the local Native communities, their customs, and the significance of the places you visit.
By doing so, we contribute to preserving the cultural heritage of these communities and fostering a deeper connection with the land we are privileged to explore. Here are a few monuments, parks, and sites where you can learn more about the history of New Mexico’s Native American people and culture:
Taos Pueblo | Aztec Ruins National Monument | Bandelier National Monument | Chaco Culture National Historic Park | El Morro National Monument | Gila Cliff Dwelling National Monument | Petroglyph National Monument | Three Rivers Petroglyph Site
Want more itineraries like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe to my newsletter and stay in the loop!
Affiliate Disclaimer: My blog posts may contain affiliate links. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read more in my Privacy Policy.
