As someone who has spent a significant amount of time exploring the landscapes and outdoor activities of Northern New Mexico, I have had the pleasure of experiencing two of the area’s most popular ski resorts: Angel Fire and Taos.
They offer unique experiences and cater to different types of skiers and snowboarders, making it difficult to decide which one to choose for your next winter vacation.
In this article, I will compare Angel Fire and Taos in detail so that you can make a well-informed decision.
Angel Fire vs. Taos: Powder Days
The resort’s high elevation and northern-facing slopes at Angel Fire make for good powder days, especially after a recent storm.
However, due to the resort’s smaller size and lower elevation than Taos, the powder can be tracked quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
Taos, on the other hand, has deep powder and challenging terrain.
The resort’s location in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains allows for consistent snowfall and plenty of opportunities for powder runs.
The resort also has a large amount of expert terrain, including the famous Kachina Peak, which often holds deep snow even after other runs have been tracked.
Overall, Taos is the clear winner if you’re a powder hound looking for consistent deep snow and challenging terrain.
However, Angel Fire can be a great option for a good powder on a budget.
Angel Fire vs. Taos: Cruisers, Snowmaking, and Grooming
Angel Fire has a variety of cruiser runs that cater to skiers of all levels, making it a great resort for beginners and intermediate skiers.
The resort also has a strong snowmaking system, allowing for reliable skiing throughout the season, even when natural snowfall is low.
Furthermore, Angel Fire’s grooming is top-notch, with well-manicured runs that make for enjoyable skiing even when the snow is hard-packed.
On the other hand, Taos has fewer cruiser runs and better expert terrain.
However, the resort has recently invested in a better snowmaking system, which has greatly improved the skiing conditions on the lower mountain.
Taos also has a grooming program, but it’s not as extensive as Angel Fire’s, and some runs can be left with a more natural feel.
Overall, Angel Fire is the better option if you’re looking for well-groomed cruisers and reliable snow conditions.
However, if you’re a professional skier looking for challenging terrain, Taos is a clear choice, with the bonus of improved snowmaking and grooming on the lower mountain.
Angel Fire vs. Taos: Bumps
Taos has challenging mogul runs, which draw expert skiers worldwide.
The resort has several mogul runs, including Al’s Run, one of North America’s most challenging mogul runs.
Taos also hosts several mogul competitions throughout the season, which showcase the resort’s impressive bump skiing terrain.
Angel Fire has limited mogul runs, which tend to be smaller and less challenging than Taos’.
However, Angel Fire has a few bump runs that can provide a fun challenge for intermediate skiers.
Overall, Taos is the clear winner if you’re a bump skier looking for challenging mogul runs.
However, if you want to improve your skills on smaller bumps, Angel Fire can still provide a fun experience.
Angel Fire vs. Taos: In-Bounds Glades and Trees
Angel Fire has several areas with gladed terrain, including the Exhibition and Dreamcatcher runs, providing fun tree skiing opportunities.
However, they’re small and can be tracked quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
Conversely, Taos has a lot of gladed terrains, including West Basin and Highline Ridge.
The resort also has a reputation for its challenging tree skiing, with steep runs and tight tree lines that provide a thrilling experience for expert skiers.
Taos is the better option if you’re looking for more extensive and challenging gladed terrain.
However, if you’re looking for fun tree skiing opportunities without venturing into expert terrain, Angel Fire can still provide a great experience.
Angel Fire vs. Taos: Terrain Parks
Angel Fire has a well-designed terrain park with various features for all skill levels.
The park has several jumps, rails, and boxes and is well-maintained throughout the season.
The resort also hosts park events, including rail jams and slopestyle competitions.
On the other hand, Taos has a smaller terrain park, primarily focused on jumps and features for more advanced skiers and snowboarders.
The park is located on the upper mountain, near the Kachina Peak lift, and provides some impressive jumps and drops for expert riders.
Overall, Angel Fire is the better option if you’re looking for a well-rounded terrain park with features for all skill levels.
However, if you’re a professional rider looking for more challenging jumps and features, Taos can provide a fun experience.
Angel Fire vs. Taos: Lifts
Angel Fire has seven lifts, including six chairlifts and one surface lift. They’re generally modern and well-maintained.
However, the resort can experience lift lines, especially during peak times.
Taos has many lifts, with 14 lifts, including five high-speed quad chairs, two triple chairs, and one gondola.
They’re modern and provide efficient access to the resort’s extensive terrain.
The resort also offers a valet service for skis and snowboards, which can help to minimize wait times and provide a more streamlined experience.
Overall, Taos is the better option if you’re looking for a resort with many modern lifts and efficient access to terrain.
However, if you can tolerate some lift lines and prefer a more relaxed skiing experience, Angel Fire can still provide a great time on the mountain.
Angel Fire vs. Taos: Family Resorts
Angel Fire is well-known for being a family-friendly resort with various activities and amenities for kids of all ages.
The resort has a ski school that caters to children and various on-mountain activities, including tubing and snowmobiling.
The resort also has a children’s center, providing a safe and fun environment for young kids while their parents are skiing.
Taos also offers some great family-friendly options with a more upscale approach.
The resort has a variety of luxury accommodations and dining options and a ski school that caters to children.
The resort also has a children’s center, providing daycare services for kids between the ages of 2 and 6.
In a nutshell, Angel Fire is the better option if you’re looking for a resort with a more traditional family-friendly atmosphere and a range of activities for kids.
However, if you’re looking for a more upscale family experience with luxury accommodations and dining options, Taos can provide a great family experience.
Angel Fire vs. Taos: Ski Shops and Rentals
Angel Fire has several rental shops located at the base of the mountain, which offer a variety of ski and snowboard equipment for rent.
They’re well-stocked and provide good quality gear at reasonable prices.
Additionally, the resort has several on-mountain retail shops, offering many apparels and gear for purchase.
Taos also has several rental shops located at the base of the mountain, which offer a variety of ski and snowboard equipment for rent.
The shops are well-stocked and provide good quality gear, but at slightly higher prices than Angel Fire.
The resort also has a variety of on-mountain retail shops, which offer a range of high-end apparel and gear for purchase.
Overall, Angel Fire is the better option if you’re looking for affordable rental options and a good gear selection.
However, if you’re looking for high-end gear and apparel, Taos can provide a great shopping experience.
Angel Fire vs. Taos: Non-Skiers
Angel Fire provides tubing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides for non-skiers.
The resort also has a fitness center, a lovely indoor pool, and a spa, providing excellent options for relaxation and exercise.
Taos also has many activities for non-skiers, including snowshoeing, ice skating, and scenic sleigh rides.
The resort also has several museums and cultural attractions, including the Taos Pueblo, providing insight into the history and culture of the region.
Additionally, the town of Taos has a variety of shopping and dining options, which provide a great way to explore the local area.
Overall, Angel Fire is the better option if you’re looking for a resort with a range of on-mountain activities and amenities for non-skiers.
However, if you’re looking for cultural and entertainment options beyond the slopes, Taos can provide a more diverse and immersive experience.
Angel Fire vs. Taos: Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a family-friendly resort or a professional skier searching for challenging terrain, Angel Fire and Taos have something to offer.
Angel Fire’s laid-back atmosphere and affordability make it a great option for families and those on a budget.
Taos’ steep runs and diverse terrain cater to the adventurous skier.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and priorities.
I hope this comparison has provided valuable insights to help you choose the perfect ski resort for your next winter adventure in Northern New Mexico.
I was working as a mountain guide, probably all around the planet. One day, I met my wife in the mountains, literally on top of the world. Now, I have a beautiful family and three kids, so I don’t have much time for climbing, but sometimes I go camping with my friends. I am also into gym workouts, and I can’t imagine my life without sports.
Since I ended my professional career as a climbing guide, I’ve been giving personal classes and helping amateurs to get ready for conquering their first peaks. Also, that’s how the whole blog idea appeared.
