Some facts about Taos and its sun!:
Population (2000 Census) Town 4,700 — Taos County 30,000.
Elevation Town sits 6,967 feet above sea level.
Taos Ski Valley base is 9,207 feet above sea level rising to 11,819 feet.
Climate High desert, intense sunlight. Very dry. Taos averages 12 inches of rainfall a year—and 35 inches of snow (in town). Taos Ski Valley averages 320 inches of snow per year. Sunscreen and a hat are advisable year round. Nights and early mornings are cool, even in July and August.
A few representative temperatures: June 82° F during the day, 45° F at night; in January 40° F during the day, 9° F night; colder in the Ski Valley. Ski season extends from Thanksgiving until first week of April each year.
Skiing at Taos Ski Valley:
Taos Ski Valley Resort is located in the Southern Rocky Mountains of New Mexico, a 20 minute drive from 'Sun Ra.' The resort features a top ranked ski school, uncrowded ski slopes, abundant snow and endless sunny days. Now the resort allows snowboarding along with classic alpine skiing for all levels of skiers, expert to beginner, children, teens and adults.
From the Taos Vacation Guide::
Taos is actually a blend of several close-knit communities that, together, provide visitors with a world of infinitely varied experiences. Visit Taos Pueblo, an ancient living Indian village that has stood unchanged for centuries. Or explore historic Taos Plaza and its side streets. Many of the old adobe buildings that now house shops and galleries were once the homes of some of Taos' leading citizens - Kit Carson, among them.
Set off on a mountain trail on skis, horseback, bike or your own two feet. Or ride the bucking Rio Grande in a raft or kayak. With four seasons and five life zones, your recreational options are wide open. Our Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures are proudly preserved through art and architecture, music and dance, and food and festivals for all to enjoy throughout the year.
