Climbing
Trip Report
Long after the snow is gone and ski crowds die down, some resorts hibernate, patiently waiting for snowfall. Summertime at Taos Ski Valley is hardly a ghost town. Especially for its Via Ferrata, which allows outdoor enthusiasts to take their adventure to new heights, far above Kachina Peak.
Visiting Taos Ski Valley in the summer is like escaping through a portal of southwest beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventure. Nestled in the high desert of Northern New Mexico, this ski area transforms into a haven for explorers and thrill seekers in the summer. After the snow melts, the landscape bursts into a new life with endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of downhill mountain biking, challenging yourself in the exposed alpine on a Via Ferrata, or diving into the area’s culture and history, Taos Ski Valley offers a perfect blend of experiences that capture the essence of summer in the Southwest’s mountains.
The Via Ferrata at Taos Ski Valley was added in 2020 and it offers a new perspective of the ski area from high above in the alpine. Via Ferrata, meaning iron path, has a rich history dating back to World War I. These fixed climbing routes were originally constructed in the Italian Alps to help soldiers navigate treacherous landscapes. Permanent steel steps and cables guided the soldiers over high-consequence terrain and eliminated some of the risks from regular rope climbing. Today, these fixed climbing routes have evolved into popular recreational activities worldwide. The Taos Via Ferrata continues this tradition, combining the historical essence of mountain exploration with the stunning natural beauty of Northern New Mexico.
The experience begins at the Eis Haus Lawn, conveniently located in the heart of the base area at Taos. Here you will meet your guide, get geared up, and make a plan for the day based on your experience and ambition.
There are a variety of climbing routes ranging in difficulty for all skill levels. Safety is number one when scaling exposed rock in the high alpine. The gear used on the climb is vital to your success. Good shoes will give you confidence and grip on the smooth sometimes slippery rock. Approach shoes are grippier than climbing shoes and not as stiff as hiking boots, they’ll give better traction on smooth rock as you focus on scaling the wall ahead.
After finding approach shoes that fit, you’ll harness up, and find a helmet. The harness has two carabiners that will be clipped onto the cable for the entirety of the climb. Your helmet is there to keep you safe from potential debris falling from above. The mountains are constantly changing, it’s always better to be overprepared, so be sure to pack snacks, water, and maybe a light shell.
After gearing up the trek to the climbing zone begins. The Via Ferrata is located on the backside of the resort. To get there, the adventure kicks off with a scenic UTV ride on the resort’s service roads. Enjoy the flora and fauna of northern New Mexico while gazing upon the Wheeler Peak and Rio Hondo Wilderness. The ski resort’s gnarly terrain truly comes to life in the summer, with marmots scurrying through scree fields, wildflowers in bloom, raspberry bushes bursting with berries, and birds chirping everywhere.
The routes begin near the base of the Kachina Peak Lift. A route consists of natural hand and foot holds, as well as steel cables, steps, and even suspension bridges that are permanently fixed on the face of the rock. If you have limited climbing experience your guide will explain how to clip into each “belly” and how to find a foothold. Every couple of feet the steel cable is drilled into the rock. The slack in between each fixed point is known as a “belly.” There should be no more than one person clipped into a belly at a time. When crossing over to the next belly you’ll move each carabiner one at a time, this way you’ll always be connected to the safety cable.
After conquering the first route your adrenaline will be pumping. Now it’s time to continue heading up! There are a variety of features you’ll come across during your climb. Including a suspension bridge and a cable, not unlike a tightrope. Clip into the cable overhead, and walk across it. If you’re brave enough, look down at the jagged rocks below, which in just a few short months will be covered in snow. If you’re a total ski nerd, there’s no better way to scout out some rad lines than from high above, hanging off the cliffs of Rosie’s Buttress.
Standing at the base of a cliff you’re about to climb can be intimidating. Especially for those with limited climbing experience. The guides will be there every step of the way. They know the mountain like the back of their hand. Many of the Via Ferrata guides are also ski patrol in the winter. It’s a true community feel at Tao Ski Valley; everyone loves where they live and work. They all share that passion with others as they move through the mountains.
After a day on the rocks, head back to the base area for some grub and recovery. Back in front of the Eis Haus Lawn—the center of all activity—you’ll find a variety of food options. Grab dinner or lunch at Taos Ale Haus, Rhoda’s, 192 at the Blake, The Blonde Bear or maybe stop by the Bavarian on your way down from Kachina Basin. Staying at the Blake Hotel is a must. It’s classic Southwest style and luxury provide a refreshing getaway for you to recover from a day of adventuring. Each stay includes complimentary valet; you won’t need your car anyway because of its convenient location in the heart of the base area.
The Spa at the Blake offers a variety of treatments to boost recovery and enhance relaxation. As your trip winds down, leave some time for a spa day, whether it’s time in the pool and hot tub, or maybe a facial and massage. Treat your body to some TLC after a weekend of adventuring.
Taos Ski Valley’s Via Ferrata is an adventure that pushes your limits while offering stunning views of the surrounding valley. But the fun doesn’t stop there—Taos is packed with opportunities for adventure, whether you’re climbing, biking, hiking, or diving into the rich culture and history that define the area. And the best part? The sense of community here makes you feel like you’re not just visiting, but becoming part of something special. Taos Ski Valley is where thrilling experiences, local connections, and a true love for the land all come together for a trip you’ll never forget.
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