Southwest, USA
Explore the mountains and the gorge on foot or via water. Acclimatize to the altitude before strenuous hikes.
Rio Grande Gorge West Rim Trail: Flat, scenic walk along the rim. Devisadero Loop Trail (lower section): Gentle climb with good views of Taos.
Williams Lake Trail: 4-mile round trip to an alpine lake, moderate elevation gain. South Boundary Trail: Extensive system, some climbs and descents, forest scenery.
Wheeler Peak Summit Trail: 8 miles round trip, significant elevation gain to 13,161 feet. Gavilan Trail: Steep ascent within Latir Peak Wilderness.
High altitude hiking demands preparedness for rapidly changing mountain weather and proper gear. Obtain Carson National Forest maps from ranger stations. Check U.S. Forest Service website for current conditions and fire restrictions.
Engage with the rich cultural fabric of Taos through hands-on experiences and performances.
Native American Dances: Often performed at Taos Pueblo during specific feast days or public events. Flamenco: Occasional performances at local venues. Live Music: The Adobe Bar at The Historic Taos Inn features local acoustic, folk, or jazz musicians nightly.
Taos Pueblo Pow Wow (July): Major inter-tribal gathering. Taos Fiestas de Taos (July): Annual celebration with parades and music. Taos Winter Wine Festival (Jan/Feb): Wine tastings and culinary events.
Formal language programs for short-term visitors are limited. Spanish is widely spoken by many residents in Taos and Northern New Mexico. Basic Spanish phrases are appreciated.
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa, El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa, and The Blake at Taos Ski Valley offer relaxation and rejuvenation.
Undeveloped hot springs like Manby and Black Rock offer rustic, natural soaking experiences along the Rio Grande, direct connection to nature.
Independent yoga studios offer drop-in classes. Retreat centers focus on yoga, meditation, and spiritual practices. Some local practitioners may offer traditional healing methods.
While Taos is not a major nightlife hub, it presents a welcoming and often lively atmosphere, especially in its bars and music venues.
Traditional nightclubs with late-night dancing are limited. Taos Mesa Brewing and some local bars may occasionally host DJ nights or dance events. The focus stays on live music and social gathering.
The area immediately around Taos Plaza and establishments along Paseo del Pueblo Sur offer a concentration of bars and pubs. No formal pub crawls exist, but walking between spots is easy.
Entertainment options generally wind down after 10 PM or 11 PM, especially on weeknights. The Adobe Bar and Taos Mesa Brewing are typically the latest options for evening entertainment.
Taos Farmers Market (seasonal, May-Oct) near Taos Plaza, offers fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods. Pueblo Market at Taos Pueblo sells Native American crafts directly.
Ledoux Street and Bent Street host renowned art galleries and studios. Numerous galleries around Taos Plaza feature local art, jewelry, and artisan goods. Chimayo is famous for weaving.
High-end art galleries and clothing boutiques in historic downtown offer unique and designer items, including handcrafted jewelry and fine art.
Taos presents unique shopping opportunities, from traditional crafts to contemporary art, allowing you to take a piece of its spirit home.
A small painting, print, or sculpture by a Taos artist creates a lasting souvenir. Explore the hundreds of galleries.
Southwestern style furniture, often made from local woods, displays the region's artisan heritage.
Many small cafes in Taos roast their own coffee beans, offering a taste of the local flavor to take home.
