Taos Ski Valley, Inc. has unveiled its exciting plans for the upcoming ski season, underscoring its dedication to the “better, not bigger” ethos as an independent resort. The focus is on delivering an unforgettable winter experience while preserving the cherished traditions of skiing and riding and maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability.
John Kelly, Chief Operations Officer of Taos Ski Valley, shared the vision for the winter ahead, saying, “This winter, guests can anticipate the enchanting nostalgia of Taos Ski Valley, coupled with enhancements that will significantly elevate the guest experience and further our commitment to sustainable practices. We aim to maximize the traditions that bring people together for memorable mountain experiences, such as our renowned Ski Weeks and the return of the beloved Martini Tree Bar. Additionally, we’re thrilled to expand our free programming and community events, introducing our mountain to a broader local audience, including those who don’t ski or ride.”
Here are some of the key highlights and programs for the winter season:
1. Advances in Sustainability:
Taos Ski Valley is taking significant steps towards sustainability by introducing electric snow grooming equipment, including a Pistenbully 600 E+hybrid snowcat, a fully electric Prinoth HUSKY eMOTION snow groomer, nine electric snowmobiles, and three electric snowblowers. These additions are part of the resort’s ongoing efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Taos Ski Valley, a certified B Corporation® ski resort and a certified CarbonNeutral® company since 2021, continues its commitment to environmental responsibility.
2. Beloved Ski Weeks Returning:
Ski Weeks, a cherished tradition since the 1960s, offer a full week of skiing instruction, fostering camaraderie and friendships among participants. Taos Ski Valley is the only resort in North America to provide this full-week ski program. Guests can book a Ski Week or opt for a Ski Week package, which includes lessons, accommodations at The Blake, demo skis, and daily breakfast—a fantastic value compared to booking these offerings separately.
3. Free Activities:
The resort remains committed to its local community, offering events like Community Weekend, where New Mexicans are invited to enjoy free base-area activities such as sledding, ice skating, and snowsports lessons for beginners. Throughout the winter, free family activities including yoga, live music, and trivia will be available to guests, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
4. Après Ski at the Martini Tree Bar:
The iconic Martini Tree Bar is set to make a comeback as the ultimate après-ski destination. With a vibrant atmosphere, delectable food, and a wide selection of beverages, it will be open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons and evenings. The Martini Tree Bar, named after founder Ernie Blake’s tradition of hiding gin martinis in the trees on the mountain, promises a fun-filled experience for all ages.
5. Improved Experiences:
Taos Ski Valley has enhanced the guest experience with the installation of new lifts, including a high-speed detachable quad and a fixed-grip triple chair. The resort has also introduced three new trails. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a unique dining experience with a magical sleigh ride dinner to the Bavarian, a mid-mountain restaurant.
6. Affordable First-Timer Package:
Newcomers to skiing and snowboarding can take advantage of a deeply discounted package, which includes instruction, a novice lift ticket, and equipment rental. Taos Ski Valley offers various packages, including the Weekday Getaway and Ski and Stay, to provide special rates for weekday visits and lodging bundles.
Taos Ski Valley’s winter season is scheduled to open on Thursday, November 23, 2023, and run through April 7, 2024. As an independently owned and operated resort, Taos Ski Valley remains committed to delivering a pure mountain experience while actively pursuing sustainability goals.
About Taos Ski Valley:
Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo mountains of New Mexico, Taos Ski Valley is a year-round destination that offers outdoor enthusiasts a true mountain experience. As an independently owned and operated resort, Taos Ski Valley focuses on being better, not bigger. The resort is the world’s only Certified B Corporation® ski resort, demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity, equity, and environmental responsibility. Taos Ski Valley has been a CarbonNeutral® certified company since 2021 and aims to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2030.