Taos Adventure Itineraries

TAOS HELPS BRING TOGETHER THE WHOLE SQUAD

Northern New Mexico is an undiscovered outdoor playground. Those wide open spaces - close to 50 square miles - is yours to discover. In Taos, the sky is clear and stars shine brightly at night, perfect for camping and alpine starts. From the 13,000 ft Wheeler peak to the Rio Grande Gorge which reaches 800 feet into the earth, this region is rich in outdoor exploration.

For those seeking a day of outdoor fun, there are a number of world class outfitters who can customize trips to fit all ability and adventure levels. For the well-adventured traveler, many of the region's classic hikes, climbs and rivers are perfect for self-exploration, whether you have just an afternoon or want to be one with nature for the entire week. Taos Ski Valley offers the perfect basecamp for adventurers, with its trailheads to Wheeler Peak and Williams Lake.

Check out outdoor adventure planning ideas at New Mexico True.

ACTIVITIES FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

HIKING Northern New Mexico hiking is some of the most diverse you’ll find in the U.S. Our local trails go for miles, and can be as easy or difficult as you need them to be. Revel in the mountain scenery of the Sangre de Cristo’s, and conquer the highest mountain in New Mexico, Wheeler Peak. Explore desert canyons and go deep into the Rio Grande Gorge, 800 feet below the Taos Mesa, where you’ll see ancient petroglyphs carved into the rock walls. No matter where you choose to hike, you’ll be walking through a living history.

CLIMBING Get ready to get your hands dirty and get up close and personal with Taos’s unique geography. Whether you choose to climb over ancient basalt in the Rio Grande Gorge or get higher up in the Rocky Mountains, you’ll get a feel for the diverse topography of northern New Mexico. With over 300 days of annual sunshine, you can rock climb all year long and get panoramic views of the Southwest.

RAFTING If you were under the impression that there wasn’t water in the high desert, have we got a surprise for you. From lazy-river to white-knuckle thrills and everything in-between the Rio Grande has something for everyone. With an array of local outfitters specializing in every aspect of the river, you are bound to have an exciting day that will be remembered for years to come.

HORSEBACK RIDING Nothing says Southwest quite like spurs and a saddle. You can explore northern New Mexico the way the natives used to - on horseback! Guided horseback riding tours will bring you high in the mountains or down in the Pueblo land where the natives still reside. Llama trekking is another furry-friend option. Explore trails while lovable llamas carry your gear and make your trip even more unique.