Taos in August
Good time to visit
Still peak season with dramatic weather and maximum crowds. Beautiful but exhausting if you're not prepared for the summer circus.
Weather
August continues the monsoon pattern with afternoon thunderstorms that can be intense but brief. Days start hot but those storms cool things down nicely. The high altitude keeps nights comfortable even at summer's peak.
27°C high12°C low11 rain days
Crowds & Cost
peak crowds
~$160/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Annual Taos Fall Arts Festival begins
- •Various summer concerts and outdoor events
August Tips
- •Thunderstorms can be severe - don't hike exposed ridges in afternoons
- •Restaurant waits get long - eat early or late
- •The plaza farmers market is at its absolute peak
All Months
April through June gives you the sweet spot - mild days, cool nights, and fewer crowds than summer. The cottonwoods leaf out in late April, turning the valley green against red rock cliffs. September and October bring perfect hiking weather and golden aspens in the high country. Summer (July-August) is peak season for good reason: galleries host major exhibitions, and the high elevation keeps temperatures comfortable even when it's blazing in lower elevations. But expect crowds and higher prices. Winter divides into two camps: ski enthusiasts love December through March when Taos Ski Valley gets deep powder, while others find the town too quiet and some restaurants closed. Spring can be windy with unpredictable weather, but you'll have the place mostly to yourself. Avoid late March and early November - these shoulder seasons offer the worst of both worlds with iffy weather and limited services.
Taos Scores
Solo
8/10
Couples
7/10
Families
6/10
Adventure
7/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
5/10
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