Explore the elevation of Taos, New Mexico—a high-desert town nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, known for its rich culture, skiing, and historic pueblo roots.

Table of Contents

Location and Profile

  • Location: Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in northern New Mexico, near the Colorado border.
  • Known for: Popular ski resorts and cultural tourism.
  • County Seat: Yes, it’s the county seat of Taos County.
  • Area: Covers about 5.4 square miles.
  • Population: Approx. 5,700 people, with many more seasonal visitors.

Elevation Basics

  • Name Origin: Named after the nearby Taos Pueblo, inhabited by Native Americans for centuries.
  • Founding: Established in the late 18th century as Don Fernando de Taos.
  • Historical Role: One of the oldest European settlements in the region, originally built as a fortress with a plaza and defensive walls.
  • Early Growth: Attracted trappers, mountain men, and Spanish settlers.
  • Art & Culture: Became a haven for artists in the early 20th century.
  • Recreation: Offers llama trekking and access to four ski resorts.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • Elevation: 6,969 feet (2,124 m) above sea level.
  • Why It Matters: Affects climate, construction, and daily life.
  • State Comparison: New Mexico’s mean elevation is 5,700 feet (1,740 m). Taos is over 1,000 feet higher.
  • Highest Point: Wheeler Peak – 13,167 feet (4,013 m), located in Taos County.
  • Lowest Point: Red Bluff Reservoir – 2,844 feet (867 m).
  • Highest Town: Taos Ski Valley – 9,321 feet (2,841 m), with homes above 10,000 feet (3,048 m).
  • Other NM Cities:
    • Santa Fe: 7,199 feet (2,194 m)
    • Albuquerque: 5,312 feet (1,619 m)
    • Las Cruces: 3,900 feet (1,200 m)

Climate and Activities

  • Climate Type: Semi-arid—warm summers, cold winters, and large day-to-night temp shifts.
  • Average Temperatures:
    • July: High: 86°F (30°C), Low: 51°F (11°C)
    • Winter: High: 41°F (5°C), Low: 10°F (-12°C)
  • Precipitation: Mostly light rainfall; snow is common from Nov to early April.
  • Ski Areas:
    • Taos Ski Valley
    • Angel Fire
    • Sipapu
    • Red River
    These cater to all skill levels.
  • Other Outdoor Activities:
    • Cross-country skiing
    • Snowmobiling
    • Llama trekking
    • Rafting
    • Fishing and ice fishing
  • Museums: Taos has three art museums celebrating its local artistic heritage.

Plan Your Trip