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Why Taos Ski Valley belongs on your summer 2026 Southwest travel list

New Mexico Travel Travel

Why Taos Ski Valley belongs on your summer 2026 Southwest travel list

When most travelers think of Taos Ski Valley, winter powder and ski runs usually come to mind. But summer may be one of the Southwest destinations’ best-kept secrets.

The Blake is now open for the season, serving as a luxurious home base for visitors looking to combine mountain adventures, wellness experiences, local culture and high-altitude relaxation in Northern New Mexico. Outdoor attractions, including scenic lift rides, mountain biking, hiking and Via Ferrata experiences, begin opening June 19. 


Need more? Read more: High-desert escapes: New Mexico staycations to book now


What to know before booking

  • The Blake opens for the summer season May 21.
  • Summer mountain activities begin opening June 19.
  • Complimentary transportation is available to Taos Pueblo and the Historic Town of Taos.
  • Nonstop flights are available from Denver via Contour Airlines.
  • JSX also offers seasonal service from Dallas and Austin. 
Two trail runners traverse a mountain ridgeline at sunrise in Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico.
Trail runners take in sunrise views while exploring the alpine terrain surrounding Taos Ski Valley. (Photo courtesy of Taos Ski Valley)

Why Taos Ski Valley is worth visiting in summer

Summer transforms Taos Ski Valley into an alpine playground surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Visitors can spend their days exploring mountain trails, riding scenic chairlifts, tackling a guided Via Ferrata course or simply relaxing at the resort’s spa and wellness center. 

The destination also offers easy access to some of New Mexico’s most iconic attractions, including the historic Town of Taos and the UNESCO-recognized Taos Pueblo. 

Family riding a scenic chairlift surrounded by forested mountain views at Taos Ski Valley.
Scenic lift rides offer visitors a relaxing way to experience sweeping mountain views during summer at Taos Ski Valley. (Photo courtesy of Taos Ski Valley)

What travelers can do at Taos Ski Valley this summer

Visitors will find plenty of ways to stay active during a summer getaway.

Outdoor adventures

  • Guided UTV mountain tours
  • Scenic lift rides
  • Lift-served downhill mountain biking
  • Mountain biking lessons
  • Via Ferrata climbing experiences
  • Hiking trails, including Wheeler Peak
  • Pickleball and disc golf 

Dining and culture

Guests can enjoy Northern Italian cuisine at 192 at The Blake or German-inspired fare at The Bavarian. The resort also provides transportation to Taos Pueblo and the Historic Town of Taos, making it easy to experience the area’s rich cultural heritage. 

German sausages, sides and beer served at The Bavarian restaurant in Taos Ski Valley.
Guests can enjoy German-inspired fare and local brews at The Bavarian, one of Taos Ski Valley’s signature dining destinations. (Photo courtesy of Taos Ski Valley)

Summer hotel deals at The Blake

Travelers planning a summer escape can take advantage of several seasonal offers

Summer Getaway Package

  • Stay three nights and save 20%
  • Stay four or more nights and save 25% 

Stay & Play Package

  • Includes a $50 credit for mountain activities during your stay 

Bed & Breakfast Package

  • Includes a $60 daily breakfast credit at 192 restaurant
The Spa & Wellness Center at The Blake offers restorative treatments designed to help guests unwind after a day of mountain adventure. (Photo courtesy of Taos Ski Valley)

Summer events at Taos Ski Valley

The destination’s summer calendar includes:

  • Taos Ski Valley Arts Festival (July 18-19)
  • Taos Mountain Wellness Festival (Aug. 14-16)
  • Kids’ Adventure Games
  • Bull of the Woods Trail Races celebrating its 10th anniversary 

Who this getaway is best for

Taos Ski Valley is ideal for travelers who want a mountain escape that combines outdoor adventure with luxury accommodations. It’s especially appealing for couples, active travelers, wellness seekers and anyone looking to experience a cooler Southwest destination during the summer months.

Interior lobby seating area with fireplace inside The Blake at Taos Ski Valley.
Warm Southwestern design elements and inviting gathering spaces welcome guests inside The Blake. (Photo courtesy of Taos Ski Valley)

The BOSW takeaway

If Sedona, Aspen and Jackson Hole had a quieter cousin that still delivered luxury lodging, incredible scenery and memorable outdoor experiences, Taos Ski Valley would be it. The combination of mountain recreation, cultural attractions and laid-back luxury at The Blake makes this one of the most intriguing summer getaways in New Mexico.

To learn more, visit skitaos.com.

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