After announcing a transformative master plan earlier this year, Taos Ski Valley is putting major money into offseason improvements for this upcoming winter. In a press release to WFMZ-TV 69 News and other outlets, Taos announced the following additions for this upcoming ski season:
- “The new Eis Haus ice-skating rink – Central to the renovated plaza, Eis Haus adds a new winter experience to the Taos mix. Skaters of all abilities and ages will enjoy ice-skating in the afternoons and evenings all season long. Large built-in fireplaces with seating adjacent to the ice offer a terrific place for family and friends to watch and socialize after a day on the mountain. Skate rentals are included and skating starts at just $20 for the afternoons and $25 for evenings.
- Dinner sleigh ride – Taking place on Friday and Saturday nights, this unusual and fun new experience gives family and friends a spectacular way to access the award-winning Bavarian restaurant. Guests relax in a sleigh while they are snow-catted to the mid-mountain restaurant from the main plaza for a three-course prix-fixe dinner, complete with wine. Thick cozy blankets keep the chill at bay, while guests receive an exhilarating and memorable roundtrip ride under the stars.
- A new plaza and mountain entry area – With in-ground radiant heat, new firepits for small gatherings, and a new skier services building with a variety of independently owned retail the new lower plaza area gives skiers and riders a smoother and more efficient entry to the main mountain area. The plaza area also includes a ticket kiosk for expedited self-service.
- New pro guided mountain experiences – For intermediate-to-experts skiers and riders looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure that includes hiking, finding secret stashes, and expert advice for Taos’ double-black diamond runs, Taos now offers personal, professional ski and ride guides for a full-day or a half-day. This tailored experience helps skiers and riders make the most of the days on the mountain while offering them insight into the local history, terrain, and region.
- Ski Strong™ Gold Medalist Experience – Exclusive to Taos, Olympic Gold Medalist Deb Armstrong will host four, three-day Ski Strong sessions that offer skiers a transformative and thrilling experience. With sessions available for all levels of skiing, this once-in-a-lifetime package includes a welcome reception on the first evening and three days of personal ski coaching directly by Armstrong, along with daily lift tickets and equipment rentals. Reservations for Ski Strong sessions will be available in early Fall and spots are limited.
- New dining at The Blake – Colleen and Wilks Medley, owners of the highly regarded Medley restaurant in nearby El Prado, will manage the restaurant within The Blake to offer a brand-new elevated food and beverage experience. The Medleys’ involvement in the restaurant reinforces the resort’s commitment to maintaining the area’s authenticity and supporting local talent.
- Renamed “Free Tacos” glade – Pioneer Glade is now Free Tacos in honor of George Medina, the legendary Taos instructor who helped end the resort’s ban on snowboarding in 2008. “Free Taos” – the mantra of the snowboarding movement – became “Free Tacos” when a sticker company ran spellcheck on the group’s order.
- Improved snow conditions – Using a new state-of-the-art snowcat, 13 new high-efficiency snow guns, and enhanced snowmaking pipes, Taos will have improved snow conditions all season long on its most popular runs throughout the mountain.”
Because of Covid-19 last season, Taos Ski Valley canceled various programs and events last season. The following will be returning for this upcoming season:
- “Parking ease – Taos will return its popular ‘cattle car’ free parking shuttle this year, as well as the skier drop-off area, which debuted last season.
- Taos’ famous ski weeks resume – Starting with the resort’s founding in 1955 and the only full-week program in North America, ski weeks provide a full week of instruction to inspire visitors’ skiing, renew their spirits, and create long-time friendships. Ski weeks at Taos Ski Valley include Children’s Weeks, Private Ski Weeks, and one-time sessions that include Race Week, and Women’s Week. Ski weeks run throughout the season from Sunday through Friday, starting December 19, 2021.
- Top skiing and riding events, and guest celebrations – Taos plans to once again host the prestigious Freeride World Tour. Additionally, Taos plans live music, holiday festivities, and engaging fundraising events throughout the season, including its popular Boarding for Breast Cancer and Femme De Freeride events.”
Image Credits: Taos Ski Valley