Whatever Floats Your Raft
We’ve told you about the trails that lead you to the top of New Mexico, but do you know about the much more exhilarating paths down to the bottom? Northern New Mexico has arguably the most comprehensive rafting options in the country, with rafts for all ages and speeds.
Starting with the fastest, whitest water you can get, the Taos Box rapids wind through canyons and valleys with runs named Dead Car and Pinball. While it is a rush, the beginning and middle of the trip allow for relaxation to get your sea legs under you, stop for lunch and take in the pristine nature views around every meander. Rafters will tell you this might be the greatest full day rafting trip in the country.
The trip with the most name-recognition potential is claimed by the Rio Grande Gorge. The perfect combination of length, adventure, nature, thrills and Rio Grande experience, this full day trip appeals to every age in one way or the other. Wildlife viewing is guaranteed along the way as well as ancient Rio Grande style petroglyph, also known as rock art from earlier civilizations.
The Racecourse Half Day trip is perfect for getting in the whitewater experience in all its glory. This particular one is the most popular rafting trip in New Mexico. For a few hours, groups work together to paddle in and out of currents and boulders for the ideal rafting adrenaline rush. Only a mile away from the New Mexico River Adventures headquarters, look no further than this course for your group of adventurers.
All courses have availability every single day through September, so catch a ride while you can! Visit the website here to plan your trip outdoors this fall. And if rafting doesn’t get you going, a myriad of other options along the river are right at your fingertips, including kayaking, rock climbing, horseback riding and more.
And after a day on the water, there is no greater feeling than melting into a soft bed back at El Pueblo Lodge in Taos and reminiscing on the experience of a lifetime you and your friends and family just experienced. So, come on down! Rapidly or not, there’s something for everyone all year long.
Browse Taos
We’ve always been comfortable being challenged and exploring uncharted territory in Taos. But this past spring and summer has definitely been the most challenging adventure of all. Sometimes, we’ll admit, we wish we had a compass to get us through it.
With tourism halted and emergency public health mandates announced, the year of 2020 will be considered the lost year that everyone remembers in Taos’ very long history. We love travelers and encourage them to “live like a local” amongst us. So, while many visitors’ trips were thwarted this year, there are always opportunities to get a little taste of Taos.
Taos’ downtown plaza and shopping opportunities bring people from all over the country and world to browse and take home some of the most intriguing Southwestern boutique artistry and products. From award-winning jewelry to one-of-a-kind handmade artwear, Taos’ businesses have taken to online markets to provide you what you’ve been missing this year.
Browse the most local Taos accessories and products found nowhere else in the world below:
Stylish and colorful artwear alongside bold accessories that no one else can say they have.
Both local bee hives and honey products around Taos who, of course, are here to #SaveTheBees
Fine works of art, jewelry ceramics and more from and for discerning eyes.
For the adventure-seekers, the wanderers and explorers, giving the people living in and visiting Taos what they need to appreciate all its wonder.
All of these shops are also open operating in downtown Taos. We at El Pueblo are also open and operating here with the most attention to detail in mind when it comes to safety and comfort for all our guests. That’s our promise to you and the lovely people of Taos. Thank you for your interest and support in 2020, the year without a compass.
Taos is Riding High
You’ve probably heard all about the ski resorts surrounding Taos. We’ve talked about them plenty. But did you know they can be as worthwhile in the summer without any snow on the ground?
Taos has arguably the best collection of summer chairlift rides in the country. Whether you’re hiking, mountain biking or just taking in the breezy view, a chairlift ride provides a scenic catalyst or highlight to your active day around Taos. And with all operators taking extra health precautions due to COVID-19, it’s one of the safest activities to plan this summer.
Known for its popularity in the winter months, Taos Ski Valley has plenty to offer when the snow melts. Taos Ski Valley’s chairlift ride takes riders up the backside of the mountain, dropping them off to splendid views of Wheeler and Kachina Peaks at the top. Plenty of picnic tables greet riders at the top for a picturesque lunch before hiking down or taking the lift back.
The chairlift opens July 1, 2020, and operates daily from 10am to 4pm, weather permitting. 2019-20 Taos Season Pass Holders ride for free. We can’t think of a better way to enjoy the summer months in Taos than hiking and enjoying its true nature.
With as high up as you’ll be going, you may meet a few angels. Angel Fire’s chairlift ascends up Moreno Valley to a 10,600-foot peak. Along with the eye-opening views, there are worlds of activities to partake in once you reach the top. Seating to enjoy lunch, trailheads for hiking and mountain biking and an 18-hole disc golf course all welcome you at the summit of the mountain.
Chairlift rides have been operating since May 29, 2020 and run every day through August 16, 2020. Weekend rides are available all the way through November 1, 2020. Rides operate from 9am to 4pm and extend to 5pm on holidays.
At Red River, the way up is almost as fun as the way down. Taking you up 1,600 vertical feet to the summit, Red River’s chairlift ride offers vast views of Carson National Forest. Meeting you at the top is a full 21-hole disc golf course, serene nature trailheads and the best mountain biking trails in the state. If you’re a serious mountain biker, strap your bike to the lift and enjoy the calm before storm on multiple trails ranging from intermediate to advanced.
Chairlift rides operate daily through September 6, 2020 and each Saturday through September 26, 2020. Open from 9am to 4pm from Sunday to Thursday and until 5pm on Fridays and Saturdays, there’s plenty of time to enjoy whatever activity brings you to El Pueblo Lodge and Taos this summer.
Have Your Compass
Hiking in New Mexico
We’re all about having no compass at El Pueblo. We pride ourselves in adventure and reacting to whatever nature and people with whom we cross paths. Since you saw us last, nature threw us a curveball and people are still reacting.
If you’re like us, that summer feeling is getting more and more real each day. We’re itching to responsibly get outside and cooperate with the new normal that awaits all of us. But just because our rules are changing doesn’t mean our adventurous spirit has to also.
This summer, with many activities, attractions and events in question or canceled, the majestic New Mexico wilderness is calling your name. Hiking on northern New Mexico’s serene southwest trails provides the perfect excuse to scratch that outdoor itch while remaining in small groups and staying as socially distant as it gets. Here are a few of our favorite trails open right now.
Winsor Trail, Santa Fe
Starting with a moderate-level hike, the Winsor Trail is challenging with a beautiful payoff.
The 10-mile hike sees a steady incline all the way to 11,000 feet in elevation. Crossing creeks and meadows and passing through ridges and passes, you’ll get the full New Mexico topographical experience.
With views of scenic Lake Katherine and lush forests, this hike can be enjoyed in one day or two. Camping is allowed, as we encourage you to get your weekend stay fix before stopping by El Pueblo and telling us about it.
Wheeler Peak, Taos Ski Valley
A more challenging hike, the Wheeler Peak Trail completes a 19-mile loop over a variety of elevation and terrain. Normally done in a couple days, this trail offers camping opportunities at elevations you’ve never camped before.
With elevation changes of almost 3,000 feet, this hike climbs two separate peaks over 13,000 feet above sea level. When you’ve reached both summits, take in the expansive views of aspen and pine trees throughout the Wheeler Peak wilderness.
Another recommended stop on your journey is the can’t-miss Horseshoe Lake, a beautiful body of water over 10,000 feet above sea level. No matter where you stop on your hike, we would love to hear about it right down the mountain from the Taos Ski Valley.
Trampas Lake Trail, Taos County
If you want even more high-elevation lake experiences, the Trampas Lake Trail is right down your alley. With snowy peaks well into summer, the Trampas Lakes glisten year-round.
Maybe the most picturesque of the trails we’ve mentioned, Trampas Lake Trail features three separate lake basins at the base of high mountain ridges and jagged rocky peaks. A moderately challenging hike, about halfway through at the 6-mile mark, taking the west path at the fork leads to Hidden Lake.
You can’t go wrong with visiting any of the three Trampas Lakes. You also can’t go wrong hiking any trail closer to us at El Pueblo in our Camino Real Ranger District. Take your pick from dozens of options for a day hiking trip here before you head back to rest at the lodge. We look forward to hearing all your stories and seeing all your faces this summer in Taos.
Historic Women of Taos
With so much happening in the world today, we wanted to take a moment to turn your attention to something else. If you didn’t know, March is Women’s History Month and Taos has more than its fair share of Women’s History around every turn. We’re highlighting a few women who have graced Taos’s past and elevated it to the cultural and artistic slice of heaven we know it as today.
Marjorie Eaton
An early 20th century painter, photographer and actress Marjorie Eaton broke ground for women for her modernist paintings as well as her role in the original Mary Poppins. Eaton first arrived in Taos in 1928 and is quoted saying “I realized I had found my soul when I arrived in Taos.” Her exhibit Marjorie Eaton: A Life In Pictures is on display at the Fechin House through March 29, 2020 in Taos.
Mabel Dodge Luhan
A patron of the arts and a legendary hostess, Mabel Dodge Luhan turned Taos into an “international salon,” persuading notable authors and artists like Aldous Huxley and Georgia O’Keefe to visit (and stay.) Her house is a brilliant display of history and character and is a visitor’s favorite in Taos.
Agnes Martin
A tremendously respected abstract expressionist and minimalist, Agnes Martin released some of her most coveted work while in Taos. While living in Taos from 1952-57, her work reflected an abstractionist tone, exhibited today at the Harwood Museum of Art. She returned to Taos in 1973 where she lived until passing in 2004.
Millicent Rogers (as seen in this photo above, Rogers poses with one of her numerous dachshunds in the living room of her apartment at 14 East 68th Street in New York City in December 1944)
A socialite, philanthropist, art collector, fashion icon, standard oil heiress and mother, Millicent Rogers was one of the most influential and eclectic women to ever call Taos home. Her home, known as Turtle Walk, contained over two-thousand Spanish colonial and Native American artifacts. Celebrated in Taos, she has a museum dedicated to her that is as interesting as she was.
You’ve Come to the Right (Fire) Place
After a day of traveling and exploring everything Taos has to offer in the chilly winter weather, there’s no better feeling than a warm room and cozy bed. El Pueblo Lodge not only has guest rooms with real wood-burning fireplaces, but kiva fireplaces, in true New Mexico fashion.
Here’s the 101 on everything Kiva. These distinguishable fireplaces have become a signature design element in southwestern architecture. The origin of the word “kiva” comes from Pueblo cultures dating back to the 8th century. Kivas were circular underground meeting places used for religious and spiritual ceremonies as well as other important gatherings. This style, along with countless other architectural designs, was adopted into contemporary use.
Kiva fireplaces are built deliberately for style and practicality. The broad base of the fireplace allows more heat to radiate around the bottom, heating the room longer and more efficiently. The narrow flume consolidates smoke for quicker ventilation. Traditional kivas, like the ones featured in many of our rooms, contain a nicho, a recessed mantle cut into the wall used for decorations, and a banco, a bench around the base of the fireplace.
The difference in heat distribution from kiva fireplaces is very noticeable from other modern fireplace options. The southwest history and design just add to its allure. We promise a warm welcome and an even warmer stay at El Pueblo Lodge.
Let the Wine Flow
Need another reason to celebrate Taos? There couldn’t be a better time than now, in the peak of ski season. From January 30 – February 2, Taos will be the center of the wine world, as the 34th Annual Taos Winter Wine Festival will be underway in the Taos Ski Valley. Featuring more than 150 unique wines from 40 different wineries and a dozen of the finest Taos chefs providing paired meals, this is the weekend to be in Taos.
Get to know some of our favorite wineries in this year’s Grand Tasting events!
Bodegas Protos first vintages both won gold medals at the Universal Exposition of Barcelona in 1929 and most recently won “Best Young Wine in Spain” for its Protos Verdejo in 2019.
Bartholomew Broadbent has been named in the top fifty most influential people in the wine world multiple times, displaying his vast impact on the planet’s wine culture.
The Frank Family’s iconic Larkmead building appears on the National Register of Historical Places and is listed as a Point of Historical Interest in California for its symbolism of the state’s heralded Napa Valley wine country.
Founder Frederick S. Wildman, Sr. developed such a deep love for French wines while serving as first lieutenant in the Second Division of the U.S. Army in World War I that after Armistice Day on November 11, 1918, he stayed in France for six more months to learn as much about vineyards as possible before his discharge.
José Pastor Selections have an impressive portfolio of reviving endangered grapes and growing techniques from the Iberian Peninsula as well as even the forgotten Canary Islands.
Scot Bilbro’s Marietta Cellars is a second-generation vineyard with almost every worker having 10 years under their belt at the winery.
René and Laurence Schlatter, members of the proprietor family, grew up in the same small town in Switzerland but somehow never met until Laurence’s brother introduced them at the Merryvale tasting room.
Once & Future’s Zinfandel is crafted from the 128-year-old vines planted by George Hearst, the same pioneer of Bedrock Wine Co.’s roots, also run by the same family.
Bob Sinskey, founder of Robert Sinskey Vineyards, was in the midst of developing his vineyard land when one of his inventions from his career in medicine exploded on the scene and he had to put wine on hold until opening the winery four years later in 1988.
The original name for Sean Minor Wines was “Four Bears” because when the founders were tasting their favorite and least favorite aspects of different wines around the dinner table, their four children likened this practice to Goldilocks searching for just the right bottle.
Curious about the full schedule of events happening? Check this page out.
Travel Global, Shop Local
Have you ever wanted to take something home from a trip but didn’t want to overpay or end up with something less than meaningful? We know how you feel. That’s why we’re so proud to introduce Shop Local Taos!, the community’s annual campaign encouraging shoppers to show support for local businesses during the holiday season.
From November 29 to your last-minute holiday shopping on December 24, dozens of local businesses and hundreds of community members pitch in with great discounts while enjoying Taos’s unbreakable community comradery. Pick up a free Shop Local Taos! tote bag any time to receive at least a 10% discount on all things Taos!
You know about Small Business Saturday, but we do everything a little bit bigger in Taos. Especially when it comes to recognizing local artists and vendors. That’s why we dedicated a whole month to show our pride, teamwork and artist’s work. Whether it’s Southwestern ceramics from the John Dunn Shops or 3D paintings from Bent Street, your holiday shopping just got a little more interesting. To check out more campaign click here.
Let’s Talk Hispanic Heritage
What’s in a culture? It’s the people and the traditions, but most importantly it’s recognizing the heritage and history behind it. This month is National Hispanic Heritage Month and we wanted to celebrate with a little bit of history here.
From the ancient ruins found in the Taos Valley, history indicates that people had been living there since nearly 1000 years ago. Further exploration in the area spans back more than 500 years ago further showcasing that the lifestyle and customs had largely been that of Spanish origin. Taos itself was first explored in 1540 by Hernan Alvarado, a captain to Coronado who searched for the “seven cities of gold” and believed he found it with the adobe clay that glitters in the sun. Today, Taos Pueblo, a settlement dating back generations, is made entirely of that adobe clay and open to the public for a small entrance fee.
If you’re willing to drive a bit, Albuquerque holds the National Hispanic Cultural Center. This 16-acre center holds an art museum, performing arts complex, education center, history and literary arts building, outdoor patios and plazuelas, a restaurant and a gift shop for you to take a little piece of heritage home with you. The center looks to showcase the history through a mix of traditional and contemporary events that showcase art, music, dance, theatre, lectures and family events. There’s something for everyone looking to explore the Hispanic culture.
This month, we hope you take a moment to learn and experience the Hispanic history, culture, and maybe even venture to check out our lovely Taos Pueblo or the National Hispanic Cultural Center. After all, the best adventure is the one into history.
Oh, Summer!
While we can all agree that winter can be fun, summertime here is really where we shine. From outdoor activities to fun events, there is everything to soak up the rays and entertain locals and travelers alike. Read up on our go-to events happening below!
Movies on the Green
Now through Aug. 7
Family-friendly, this is perfect for those looking for a little nostalgia with the Goonies or a newer film such as Mary Poppins Returns. Starting at 7 these features will be shown at Kit Carson Park and concessions will be available. So grab a blanket, and a pillow and enjoy this night under the stars with the big screen.
Taos Plaza Live
Now through the end of August
Every Thursday evening starting at 6 PM in the Historic Taos Plaza there will be featured music for all those looking for a good tune and time. The bands will range from Rock, country, folk, bluegrass, blues, swing and ranchero. Come ready to dance, watch and enjoy!
Taos Vortex 2019
August 16 – 18, 2019
Featuring 35 artists, this entertainment group wants to show Taos new realms of experience through an immersive three-day event of live music, DJs, Installation art and performances. There will be single day passes as well as the full 3 day passes available to purchase.
The musical focal points will happen on two stages, The Spire and The Glade. The Spire stage is a citadel to inspire awe and wonder, a stage created for performers to play for their fans. The Glade is a meadow for people to hang out in and be a part of the show, offering a casual and intimate habitat.
Taos Pride
August 1 – 3, 2019
Three-day community event to celebrate diversity, increase awareness, and provide a safe place to be exactly who you are! After launching 8 years ago by local Robert Quintana, it has taken on the notoriety of being one big fabulous party. Come celebrate all that makes us unique, and sharing the belief that love is love.
Dog Days of Summer
August 2019
Focusing on benefitting Stray Hearts Animal Shelter, this concert is back for its 10th annual year. It will feature top-notch talent locally and from farther away, this is sure to be a hit with a cause!
Music From Angel Fire
August 16 – 31st, 2019
Now celebrating their 36th season, this will showcase work from world-renowned artists who will perform an impressive array of works from great classical, romantic, baroque and contemporary masters.
Summer Wine Festival
August 2019
Wine tastings, food, hiking, live music and more will fill your weekend in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains! This will showcase the local wine-makers and provide plenty of entertainment (and drink) for travelers to cool down on a hot day.
Glam Trash Fashion Show
August 31st, 2019
When you’ve got a conscious heart and a passion for style what do you get? The Glam Trash Fashion Show combines art, recycling and fashion into a glamtastic all ages non-profit annual event.”
Michael Hearne’s Big Barn Dance
September 5 – 7, 2019
Going on its 17th year running, this festival has been known to host the big names as well as the up and coming ones. This will feature the best of Americana, Folk, Bluegrass, Singer-Songwriter and many more. Grab your boots, and an ear, and come check out the best in the country singing business.
The Paseo Festival
September 13 – 14, 2019
For the art lovers out there, this one is for you! Local and visiting artists present experiential and participatory installations that harness art, science and technology for multi-sensory experiences. Thought-provoking installations centered around “Connections” will allow viewers to take a seat in the eye of the artist.
Taos Fall Arts Festival
September 20 – 29, 2019
Over forty years ago a group of artists and gallerists fell in love with the idea of showcasing what Taos and the arts community had within it, and we’re sure happy they did. With a blend of cultures and mediums, the artists excite both locals and visitors with the opportunity to see the best Taos has to offer for both established artists as well as the up and coming ones.
On the Road Again
Whether you’re stopping for a night or a week, chances are you’re on the road. For those of our travelers who have a destination yet to be determined, take a cue from our road trip guide around New Mexico. All of these locations are a short day trip starting at our lovely town, Taos.
Taos
Congrats, you’re here! Known for our historic adobe buildings and beautiful views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the backdrop it’s hard not to fall in love with our artistic culture and adventuresome spirit. Welcome!
Sante Fe
About an hour and a half drive from Taos, and the capital of New Mexico, this town is located in the Sangre De Cristo foothills. The Georgia O’keeffe Museum is located here, featuring over 3,000 works by her. Filled with adobe landmarks all trailing back to the main Plaza, this city holds a lot of history just waiting to be explored.
Four Corners Monument
This one is a bit of a longer drive at about four hours, but how many times can you say you’ve been in four places at once? This monument not only lets it happen by being the corner to four states all at once. Stop on by to fulfill that bucket list check-off.
Albuquerque
As New Mexico’s largest city it has grown through the years and it’s only two and a half hours away. It has two distinct areas to the town contrasting one another; Old Town and the more modern Downtown. The contrast is visible from building style as well as the cityscape. Some of the fun activities to do here include the Sandia Peak Tramway which is the longest aerial tramway in the US, the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum and a rattlesnake museum.
Roswell
Aliens, flying saucers and artifacts, oh my! At four and a half hours away, Roswell has a namesake that everyone in the USA recognizes as the site of an alleged 1947 UFO crash. The International UFO Museum and Research Center is located here furthering the question we all wonder to ourselves; do aliens exist?
Carlsbad
A little bit longer of a drive here at about 6 hours, but definitely worth the trek. Carlsbad Caverns National Park has more than 100 caves in the Chihuahuan Desert of southern New Mexico that hold stalactites and stalagmites throughout. Great for those interested in hiking, nature and geology.
Continental Divide
Calling all hikers, bikers, horse riders and adventurers! Going straight through New Mexico, the trail follows the Continental Divide of the Americas along the Rocky Mountains. For different hiking maps and guides click here.
So with whatever stops you may choose, we hope you find the adventure you’re looking for!
Nurse the Ch’i
In the midst of the hustle and bustle of summer travel and always looking for the next adventure, it’s easy to ignore the mind and body. So we created a list of places in Taos that will help you rejuvenate that inner and outer chi so you can hop back to your life-adventure.
If you’re looking for a dip into some natural hot springs, mud bath or maybe a spa service to go with it, Ojo Caliente is your place. Featuring private and public soaks along with a variety of spa offerings, this is perfect for the adventurer who wants to relax post-hike or yoga.
“We offer a blend of activities that celebrate the waters, the land and the culture, to soothe both body and soul. Take an exhilarating trek through hundreds of acres of hiking and biking trails and explore the rich heritage of Northern New Mexico. Enjoy the benefits of yoga classes that promote flexibility and relaxation.”
Auromesa is tucked away off of the well-beat Taos path offering visitors seeking Ayurvedic practices in a tranquil setting. They offer teachings and insight into Ayurvedic medicine along with massages and yoga classes.
“Our Ayurvedic practitioner works to balance the doshic imbalance (imbalance in the body “humors” or characteristics). She may offer the detoxification program known as panchakarma (five detoxification therapies), as well as nutrition and lifestyle guidance, and recommendations of Ayurvedic natural herbs. Through her knowledge of the science of Ayurveda, she can assist a client in setting up daily routines (dinacharya) that can bring about the desired balance to release stress and help to ward off dis-ease.”
This spa offers everything from yoga and Soul’s Blueprint (astrology) to scrubs, hydrotherapy and multi-level spa treatments for you to choose from.
One of their main signature services is the Sacred Staurolite which starts with dry brushing, moves to a detoxifying turquoise mud wrap and face mask and then finishes off with a reflexology massage under the sacred indigenous Staurolite stones of Taus. They have a large list of treatments available.
“The Living Spa is an eco-conscious, world-class rejuvenation center at the heart of El Monte Sagrado. Prepare to be pampered by professional therapists focused on your health and healing.”
Focusing on massage and body rejuvenation, the Taos Spa & Tennis Club offers services to feel relaxed and complete. Included in each massage is free use of their sports facility the day of.
“Offers a menu of massage therapies and treatment ranging from deep tissue sports massage to luxurious treatments incorporating exotic aromas, water heated stones and deeply relaxing techniques.”
Some of the massages include the Taos Mountain Bliss that is done in a Swedish style, Deep Tissue that targets serious muscle and stress relief, Foot Reflexology, Canyon Stone which incorporates warm oil and warm black river stones and the massage that combines them all is the High Desert Mystique.
