Taos in January
Not the best time
January is for serious winter lovers and skiers who don't mind bundling up. The town feels sleepy but peaceful, and you'll have the plaza mostly to yourself.
Weather
January brings Taos its coldest bite, with snow blanketing the high desert and temperatures regularly dipping below freezing at night. Days are crisp and bright with that thin mountain air that makes 35°F feel surprisingly pleasant in the sun. Expect around 6 inches of snow for the month.
2°C high-12°C low4 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$85/day average
January Tips
- •Pack serious winter gear - the altitude makes it colder than you'd expect
- •Many restaurants and galleries have reduced hours or close entirely
- •Taos Ski Valley is in full swing if you're into powder
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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