New Lift at Taos Ski Valley Means Quick Access to Kachina Peak

The big news in New Mexico this ski season is the debut of a new triple-seated fixed grip lift to Kachina Peak at Taos Ski Valley. At 12,480 feet, the peak is the second highest in New Mexico and among North America’s top mountains to scale. Prior to the new lift installation, skiers and riders hiked the 45-minute climb in order to access the coveted dry chutes and open bowls in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

NewKachinaLift

High Access
Set to open by December, the Kachina Peak Lift will take riders 1,100 feet in about five minutes and top off near the summit around 12,450 feet. It will serve a steep vertical of more than 3,250 feet, increase access to the mountain’s advanced and expert terrain, and ensure consistent access through the end of the season. The new lift allows the steep terrain to be patrolled more heavily and also will help to improve avalanche mediation.

Ski Culture
Taos Ski Valley is situated in a huge basin and because of its massive snow dumps and European heritage, the ski area has a Swiss Alps look and feel. Known for its challenging alpine terrain, TSV has opened up to snowboarders in recent years, and boasts a world-famous ski school. Down the valley, the town of Taos offers an eclectic mix of Southwestern art, food and entertainment that make for a colorful après ski.

More developments

Added snowmaking power on the rest of the mountain this season will help to ensure consistently smooth runs on their Thanksgiving Day opening. The ski area’s new owner Louis Bacon is financing the $2.7 expansion and travelers can track the project’s progress on TSV’s website.

To reach more skiers, Taos Ski Valley will welcome holders of the Copper Mountain Pass to the resort this winter. Pass holders will enjoy three free days of access to the slick new lift at Taos, as well as skiing and riding at six other Powdr owned resort across the country. Taos Valley offers plenty to those looking for a something different for their winter ski vacation this year.

Who’s up for alpine skiing in the Southwest?

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