I will admit that everything I’d heard or read about this mountain was intimidating to me. Did I want to spend a week on beginner trails? At least that was where my first lament was rooted; thinking that a Black or Blue run here would be way beyond my ability.
My initial reservations about this trip were put to rest as I viewed the Taos Webcam for three weeks prior to leaving. Watching skiers approach the lift lines seemed like a decent way to appraise the visitors from afar. As long as there were some that were negotiating a pizza in a narrow corridor I knew I would be ok!
I’m an advanced intermediate like so many others. My fears were unfounded at first sight. This mountain welcomes all levels, offering beautiful runs, glades, chutes, and bowls.
The base area is currently undergoing a major facelift. Taos resort buildings are plain, well-kept, and functional. Rather low key. Which is part of its appeal. The development is like an elephant in the room at this point. If there are several large cranes on sight looming over the new hotel---steps away from the main lift---you know a shift in mission is occurring. A tribute to Ernie Blake given the name of the hotel, but also seems contradictory to his longstanding presence and vision for Taos Ski Valley.
Around the base area a visitor can find several restaurants, four ski shops, bars, and a few niche stores not commonly found in a base village. Accommodations are also available as close as 60 yards to the lift line, but they do not appear like condos at all. Units are incorporated into the retail buildings on upper floors. There is a maze of pathways and elevators that connect rooms and services on the inside that can’t be seen or assumed just by glancing at the buildings. I can vouch for this because I became totally lost inside between the lower level of Cottam’s Ski shop ( I think there are actually 2 or 3 Cottams represented here) attempting to find my way out in search of the little chocolate shop. I ended up inside a lovely condo floor where I peered into open doors with admiring curiosity. (I ‘ve been addicted to interiors since I was 5. Halloween always provided ample viewing through open doors!)
Our own rental unit was within walking distance to the base area too, but a little further up the road.
Being on site allows you to check out demo skis in the late afternoon for the next days use. Which I did, but that’s another thread. I will mention that the ski demos in Taos Ski Valley were surprisingly good. The shops carried wide range of lengths, brands, and models. I could have demoed all week without repeating!
Most of you probably know that Taos has a nationally recognized Ski School. Known for it’s high quality instruction. This too, was another reason I was going into this trip without genuine qualms. My intention was to get into lessons after a day or so on the mountain. What better way to learn the area, and perhaps conquer the trepidation I have with steep terrain?
Good fortune had me with the same instructor for three days. There were only 3 students at the most when I was there. (no crowds). I also had a private, not by default, but by this generous teacher who probably felt a little bad for me since I was more experienced than the others in the “group.”
I learned a lot. Things that are so basic to skiing, but never explained or acknowledged in previous lessons. I am so grateful for having had this opportunity.
Taos Ski Valley was a wonderful experience. Could be a nice place for a Diva West considering there isn’t any bad food anywhere, the terrain is awesome, not terribly difficult to get to, accommodations plentiful, and that Ernie Blake Ski School reputation. The mountain reminded me of Telluride. But the feeling of Taos is a refreshing, inspiring, and totally friendly experience.
I’m going back.
My initial reservations about this trip were put to rest as I viewed the Taos Webcam for three weeks prior to leaving. Watching skiers approach the lift lines seemed like a decent way to appraise the visitors from afar. As long as there were some that were negotiating a pizza in a narrow corridor I knew I would be ok!
I’m an advanced intermediate like so many others. My fears were unfounded at first sight. This mountain welcomes all levels, offering beautiful runs, glades, chutes, and bowls.
The base area is currently undergoing a major facelift. Taos resort buildings are plain, well-kept, and functional. Rather low key. Which is part of its appeal. The development is like an elephant in the room at this point. If there are several large cranes on sight looming over the new hotel---steps away from the main lift---you know a shift in mission is occurring. A tribute to Ernie Blake given the name of the hotel, but also seems contradictory to his longstanding presence and vision for Taos Ski Valley.
Around the base area a visitor can find several restaurants, four ski shops, bars, and a few niche stores not commonly found in a base village. Accommodations are also available as close as 60 yards to the lift line, but they do not appear like condos at all. Units are incorporated into the retail buildings on upper floors. There is a maze of pathways and elevators that connect rooms and services on the inside that can’t be seen or assumed just by glancing at the buildings. I can vouch for this because I became totally lost inside between the lower level of Cottam’s Ski shop ( I think there are actually 2 or 3 Cottams represented here) attempting to find my way out in search of the little chocolate shop. I ended up inside a lovely condo floor where I peered into open doors with admiring curiosity. (I ‘ve been addicted to interiors since I was 5. Halloween always provided ample viewing through open doors!)
Our own rental unit was within walking distance to the base area too, but a little further up the road.
Being on site allows you to check out demo skis in the late afternoon for the next days use. Which I did, but that’s another thread. I will mention that the ski demos in Taos Ski Valley were surprisingly good. The shops carried wide range of lengths, brands, and models. I could have demoed all week without repeating!
Most of you probably know that Taos has a nationally recognized Ski School. Known for it’s high quality instruction. This too, was another reason I was going into this trip without genuine qualms. My intention was to get into lessons after a day or so on the mountain. What better way to learn the area, and perhaps conquer the trepidation I have with steep terrain?
Good fortune had me with the same instructor for three days. There were only 3 students at the most when I was there. (no crowds). I also had a private, not by default, but by this generous teacher who probably felt a little bad for me since I was more experienced than the others in the “group.”
I learned a lot. Things that are so basic to skiing, but never explained or acknowledged in previous lessons. I am so grateful for having had this opportunity.
Taos Ski Valley was a wonderful experience. Could be a nice place for a Diva West considering there isn’t any bad food anywhere, the terrain is awesome, not terribly difficult to get to, accommodations plentiful, and that Ernie Blake Ski School reputation. The mountain reminded me of Telluride. But the feeling of Taos is a refreshing, inspiring, and totally friendly experience.
I’m going back.
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