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.
