15 Best Things to Do in Taos in the Summer (2024)
Are you planning a trip to Taos and trying to figure out the best things to do in the summer? You’re in luck! During my recent road trip across New Mexico, where I covered 1,500 miles in a rental car, Taos easily became one of my favorite stops.
Taos offers a laid-back atmosphere compared to some of the bigger cities down south (i.e., Santa Fe and Albuquerque) and has that real “mountain town” feel (albeit with more cacti), where the local character remains intact.
While Taos is known as an adventure destination with activities such as rafting, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, this 6,500-person mountain town also offers a UNESCO World Heritage Site, art galleries, and what I believe to be the best pizza around!
So let’s explore all there is to do in Taos in the summer. Adventure awaits!
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Best Things to Do in Taos in the Summer
Without further ado, here are the top summer attractions in Taos you can’t miss!
1. Visit the Taos Pueblo
Taos Pueblo is an ancient Native American village located just north of downtown Taos, known for its historic adobe buildings. It’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States and has a rich cultural heritage.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is open 7 days a week starting at 9:00 a.m., with the final tour departing at 4:00 p.m. The cost of admission is $25 per adult, and children 10 and under are free. While you are here, I 100% recommend taking the guided tour. The tour lasts about 30 minutes and is led by local college students.
Tours are free, but be sure to tip your guide.
You learn all about the history, culture, and the five remaining families who still call this their home today. It was a top highlight of our entire trip!
You can also choose to do a guided half-day cultural tour that covers four popular landmarks in Taos, beginning with the Taos Pueblo. The tour is not offered on Tuesdays or Wednesdays.
Traveler’s Tip: If you are on the hunt for turquoise, sterling silver, or coral jewelry, the homes inside the village are a great place to look! After HOURS of searching for the “perfect piece” in Santa Fe with no luck, I finally found exactly what I was looking for here. And it’s a great conversation starter when people ask where you found it.
You can buy pieces straight from the artists themselves which usually means the prices are lower than what you will see in some of the galleries nearby or in Santa Fe.
2. White Water Rafting
Rafting down the Rio Grande is definitely one of the top things to do in Taos in the summer! White water rafting trips are available every day starting in mid-March and can run through early October.
You can choose between trips that offer a leisurely paddle down the river or adrenaline-pumping experiences with Class V rapids. See below for my top 3 recommendations:
TAOS BOX RAFTING FULL-DAY
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY: HIGH
Experience Class IV (V in highwater) whitewater rapids like “Rock Garden”, “Boat Reamer”, and “Screaming Left-Hand Turn”. I would not recommend trying this section if you are new to rafting. Participants must be at least 13 years old and weigh a minimum of 90 pounds. The Taos Box season goes from April to July, with the prime time to enjoy it being from late May to early June.
RIO GRANDE RACECOURSE HALF-DAY
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM
Most popular tour! The rapids vary from Class II-III rapids and offer a balance of slower-paced sections with some that offer technical difficulty. It’s suitable for all age groups, with a minimum age requirement of 5. The whole trip takes around 3 to 3.5 hours. My husband and I chose this option.
ORILLA VERDE FLOAT
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY: EASY
This is a popular choice for beginners and families who want to enjoy a relaxing float down the Rio Grande. You will experience mild Class II rapids near the end of the course but nothing too challenging. It’s also a great option for those who want to take in the beautiful scenery around them. The entire experience takes about 3 hours.
Recommended local rafting companies and gear providers in Taos:
- New Mexico River Adventures
- Los Rios River Runners
- Far-Flung Adventures
3. Hot Air Ballon Ride
A hot air balloon ride is considered one of the top quintessential “New Mexico” activities to experience. Rio Grande Balloons and Taos Balloon Rides offer sunrise tours and allow you to see some of the most spectacular scenery in the Southwest.
Depending on seasonal variations and weather conditions, there’s even a possibility that you might descend into the Rio Grande Gorge and float right above the river. AMAZING!
Allow 4.5 to 5 hours for the whole experience, which includes drive time, setting up the balloon, flying, packing up, and a post-flight celebration with champagne (or sparking apple cider). The duration of the flight itself ranges from 45 minutes to an hour.
It’s usually brisk in the morning, so bring layers to stay warm.
The balloons are designed to fit 2-3 passengers, 4-6 passengers, or 6-12 passengers, depending on the total weight. The minimum age to fly is 5 years old.
This experience is a great way to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, marriage proposals, holidays, family fun or to cross it off your “bucket list”.
4. Llama Trekking Adventures
What could be better than spending your day hiking with llamas? Wild Earth Llama Adventures offers a variety of excursions, depending on your preference.
“Take a Llama to Lunch!” Wilderness Day Hikes is a half-day adventure (~2.5 hours) where Stuart, the owner and guide, shares his knowledge of southern ecology and regional folklore during a hike through the Carson National Forest. All fitness levels are welcome (Stuart will plan the hike accordingly).
Each guest can select a llama to walk with them during the hike. These llamas also serve as pack animals, carrying a picnic lunch for you to enjoy later. The lunch includes items like fresh fruit, salad, meat and cheeses to make sandwiches, soda, and dessert.
Or, you can also choose to do a multi-day trek where you camp overnight with the llamas. Each llama will be carrying about 80 pounds worth of equipment which encompasses base camp gear, tents, and eating utensils — all of which are included in the package cost. Sleeping bag and pad rentals are available upon request.
Fun Fact: Llamas are cute, gentle, and quirky animals that love to sing. 🎶 It’s something you just have to hear for yourself!
Llama trekking seasons fill up quickly so be sure to make a reservation ASAP. To reserve your spot, you can call 1-800-758-LAMA (5262) or email LlamaTrek@aol.com.
5. Taos Walking Tour
Often times the best way to explore a new city is on foot.
A Taos Walking Tour in the summer provides an opportunity to explore the town’s history and culture from a local guide. It offers an engaging and informative experience, allowing you to learn about the area’s heritage and landmarks at a leisurely pace.
During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the red light district from the Wild West era, visit local galleries featuring artwork by Taos’ renowned artists, and discover many other interesting sites.
The tours are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers and usually last between 1-3 hours.
Here are a few popular tours to choose from that you may like:
6. The Taos Fiestas
Las Fiestas de Taos or “The Taos Fiestas” is a traditional annual event in Taos, New Mexico, with a focus on celebrating the town’s history and culture. It typically includes a procession, live music, local food, parades, and various community activities.
Held each year in late July over a three-day celebration, it’s a great way to spend an afternoon and learn more about one of the most celebrated traditions in Taos today.
The fiesta is usually celebrated in the historic Taos Plaza but has recently been relocated to Kit Carson Memorial Park due to construction projects.
FUTURE FIESTA DATES
July 19-21, 2024
July 25-27, 2025
July 24-26, 2026
7. Ride the Scenic Lift Up the Mountain
Taos Ski Valley is located approximately 30 minutes north of Taos Plaza and is well known for being a popular ski resort in the winter. Though, summer is just as fun!
There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and mountain biking in the village. Plus, the scenic lift ride is open until September 17th and offers visitors incredible views of Wheeler Peak and the surrounding mountains.
You’ll find the chairlift at the base of the mountain on Lift 1.
I’d recommend bringing your own lunch to enjoy at the summit, where you’ll find plenty of picnic tables. Or, you can visit The Whistlestop Cafe, which is open in the summer. You can find the cafe near chair lift 2 and chair lift 6.
You can buy tickets at the Lake Fork Ticket Office located in the Resort Base Area. There’s no need for advance reservations. Bonus: Tickets are valid for the entire day, in case you want to make multiple trips up and down the mountain.
8. Horseback Riding
I don’t know about you, but horseback riding is one of my favorite things to do while on vacation. One, I love horses. But, it’s also a unique way to connect with nature, take in scenic views, and create memorable experiences without having to be an expert.
Especially if you’ve already had your fill of hiking and need to give the feet a break, this is a great way to still see the scenic mountains without breaking a sweat.
From July to September, horseback riding in Taos becomes even more magical, because you’re surrounded by wildflowers and golden aspen groves.
Rio Grande Stables and A.A. Taos Ski Valley Wilderness Adventures are the best companies in Taos to book your horseback riding adventure.
There are also a few companies that offer “Paddle and Saddle” tours where you can combine two popular summer activities in one action-packed day — horseback riding and whitewater rafting. See below for my recommendations:
- Lower Gorge Saddle Paddle (Far Flung Adventures)
- Paddle and Saddle (Los Rios River Runners)
9. Via Ferrata Climbing Tour
Via ferrata climbing routes are becoming increasingly popular in the U.S., especially for thrill-seekers. The Taos Ski Valley Via Ferrata in N.M., which opened in 2021, features two routes for individuals ranging from beginners to advanced climbers.
That’s right — no climbing experience is necessary. The only requirements are: Guests must weigh between 88 and 264 pounds, be in good physical condition, and be at least 12 years of age. But, if you’re afraid of heights, I’d suggest skipping this one.
I for one had never heard of a “Via Ferrata” until last year. So, if you are in the same boat, here’s a quick summary of what to expect; A “Via Ferrata” is a climbing route made up of steel cables, handholds, and ladders permanently fixed into the rock.
Each tour is guided by a Via Ferrata instructor, and all essential gear, including a harness and helmet, is supplied and covered in the overall fee. Prices begin at $325 for one guest and become more budget-friendly with larger group sizes, such as $325 for 2 guests, $425 for 3 guests, and so on.
Tours are available daily at 9 am and 1 pm until the end of September (weather permitting) and last roughly 3 hours.
10. Rio Grande Gorge Bridge
Believe it or not, the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is even more impressive in person! Built in 1965, the bridge has been deemed the “tenth highest bridge in the U.S.” and is located roughly 10 miles northwest of the Taos Plaza.
Standing 650 feet above, visitors will be able to view the stunning gorge and the Rio Grande river below.
Parking will be on your left-hand side just as you drive past the bridge if you are heading west on US Highway 64 West or vice versa if you are coming from the east.
Traveler’s Tip: To photograph the bridge, gorge below, AND the Sangre de Cristo mountains, take the trail south of the rest area to one of the nearby viewpoints. The best times to visit are during sunrise or sunset.
11. Hiking
Taos offers visitors many picturesque hiking trails, making it a top thing to do in the summer. Many of the popular hikes are near the Taos Ski Valley — so if you are planning to ride the chair lift to the top (#5 on this list) before/after your hike, the hiker’s parking lot is located about 2 miles from Taos Ski Valley’s Kachina Lift 4.
For a nice moderate hike, I would recommend Williams Lake Trail. This 3.7-mile out-and-back trail should take you a little over two hours to complete. This trail is a popular one and is well marked — just follow the crowd of people or the blue dots on trees.
For a more challenging hike, continue on to the Wheeler Peak via Williams Lake Trail. This trail will take you to the highest point in New Mexico (13,167 ft. of elevation) and is about 8.7 miles in total. It begins along the Williams Lake Trail at the saddle just above the lake. Plan on dedicating about 5 to 6 hours to complete.
The latter half of the hike can be a bit challenging due to the incline to reach the peak and elevation gain. Consider bringing trekking poles, layers, and lots of water!
⚠️ Please be aware that the US Forest Service will close portions of Williams Lake and Wheeler Peak trails for tribal traditions and cultural purposes. For more information visit the Carson National Forest website.
To see additional trails in the area, access the complete list by clicking here.
12. Fly Fishing
Taos is chock-full of good fly-fishing spots! In the summer, you can fish the beautiful waters of Northern New Mexico that are FILLED with trout.
Popular fishing destinations loved by locals include Rio Costilla (Valle Vidal), Rio Grande, Cimarron River, and Red River.
For those new to fishing or seeking a guided experience, I suggest booking a trip with one of the following companies: Taos Fly Shop, Cutthroat Fly Fishing, or Solitary Angler, Inc. They offer all the essential equipment and are well-versed in finding the best fishing locations with fewer crowds.
13. Live Music at Taos Mesa Brewing
Taos Mesa Brewing or “The Mothership” consists of brewing facilities, a restaurant with mountain views, and a concert venue that features local artists. With tickets ranging from $5-$15, this spot makes for a great affordable summer activity.
The Mothership is open Thursday – Sunday from noon to 9 p.m.
TIP: Looking for a unique place to stay near Taos? Try Hotel Luna Mystica, a vintage airstream hotel and campground located right next to Taos Mesa Brewing.
Taos Mesa Brewing also has a second location in downtown Taos called the Tap Room. This brewpub location serves wood-fired pizza and OH MY — it could possibly be the best pizza I’ve ever tasted! If you have time to spare, grab a slice (or two) here. You will not be sorry! My husband and I still reminisce about the pizza to this day.
14. Off-road Adventure Tours
An off-road adventure in Taos is an exciting way to explore the rugged and scenic terrain of the region and is an experience the whole family will love!
Off-road adventuring in Taos can take you to some remote and less-visited areas like ghost towns and historic gold mines, that are not typically seen by most visitors.
Most of the companies that offer ATV or UTV tours are located near Red River, New Mexico which is about 45 minutes from downtown Taos. Tours are available starting in mid-May and run through the end of October.
Recommended local ATV rental service near Taos:
- Enchanted Off-Road (5 ⭐️ // 184 reviews)
- Bobcat Pass Wilderness Adventures (4.9 ⭐️ // 372 reviews)
15. Black Rock Hot Springs
Did you know there are a ton of natural hot springs in New Mexico? One near Taos that you should put on your list to visit is Black Rock Hot Springs. It’s located about 15 miles northwest of the Taos Pueblo (#1 on this list).
The trail to the hot springs is about .5 miles (one-way) and can be a little rocky once you get closer to the springs, but it’s not an overly challenging hike all in all.
Park near the John Dunn Bridge. The entrance is currently blocked off, so you must walk a few hundred yards from the parking lot to reach the trailhead.
Note: Depending on the water level of the adjacent Rio Grande River, the hot springs may be flooded in the early summer months (May to early June) and the water will be cold. Be sure to check AllTrails for the latest updates.
Also, be aware that the hot spring is quite small and clothing is optional. So make sure to respect other people’s privacy before you enter.
FAQ Section
What is Taos, New Mexico like in the summer?
In the summer, Taos, New Mexico experiences pleasant weather with temperatures averaging in the mid-80s during the day and dropping to the low 50s at night. The region becomes a hub for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, and more. It’s also a popular time for cultural events and festivals (e.g., Las Fiestas de Taos in July), offering visitors a chance to engage with the local culture and art scene.
Is Taos worth the trip?
Yes, absolutely! I have traveled all throughout New Mexico and Taos was my favorite spot I visited. It reminds me of a small mountain town in Colorado (but with desert vibes). Taos offers a unique blend of art, culture, outdoor activities, and natural beauty, making it appealing to a variety of travelers.
If traveling from Santa Fe, be sure to take the High Road to Taos. It makes for one of the most beautiful scenic road trips you can take in New Mexico. P.S. Another great one is Carlsbad Caverns to White Sands National Park via Cloudcroft.
What is Taos, New Mexico, known for?
Taos is known for its rich Native American heritage, vibrant art scene, World Heritage Site (Taos Pueblo), and the highest point in New Mexico, Wheeler Peak. In the winter, Taos Ski Valley transforms into a sought-after destination for skiers and snowboarders from across the U.S.
What are some unique things to do in Taos in the summer?
There are SO many unique things to do in Taos in the summer. Visitors can hike with llamas, tour the earthships in the area (homes made out of natural and recycled materials), enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the Rio Grande, and the list goes on. Let’s just say, you won’t be bored!
How is Taos different than Santa Fe?
Taos is a lot smaller and has a more relaxed atmosphere, while Santa Fe has a busier vibe. Another major difference is the landscapes; Taos is an outdoor lovers haven and offers stunning mountain views and Santa Fe has more of an urban setting. Both are charming in their own way — just depends on what you are looking to do.
Final Thoughts
Taos in the summer offers a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Whether it’s exploring the natural beauty of the area or immersing oneself in the local arts scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The warm weather and diverse offerings make it a destination worth considering for a memorable summer getaway.