Did you know Taos Ski Valley is the only ski resort in the Northern Hemisphere offering a full-immersion, week-long skiing experience? Imagine spending a week surrounded by over 300 inches of annual snowfall, receiving expert coaching, and navigating some of North America’s most legendary terrain. That’s the magic of Taos Ski Week.
If you’re trying to piece together the Taos Ski Week 2026 schedule, you’ve probably noticed it’s not a single event but a collection of world-class programs offered by different organizers. This guide is your one-stop resource, designed to cut through the confusion. We’ll break down the complete 2026 schedule, compare pricing, detail what’s included, and explain how to register, saving you time and helping you choose the perfect ski week for your adventure.
With some of the most popular weeks already filling up, now is the time to plan. Let’s dive in and find your ultimate Taos experience.
What is Taos Ski Week?
Taos Ski Week is more than just a series of lessons; it’s a celebrated tradition and North America’s only full-immersion ski camp. Established in 1955, this European-style guided program is designed to elevate your skills and confidence through a multi-day, immersive experience. Participants are grouped by ability for six days of morning sessions, each lasting three hours. This structure leaves your afternoons free to practice your new skills, explore the mountain, or simply relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Taos.
What truly sets the program apart is its focus on comprehensive skill development. Under the guidance of expert instructors from the world-renowned Ernie Blake Snowsport School, you’ll progress from fundamental techniques on pristine groomers to mastering the challenging bumps, bowls, chutes, and trees that make Taos famous. The small group sizes, typically three to seven skiers, ensure you receive personalized feedback and attention. Beyond the technical skills, Taos Ski Week fosters a unique sense of community, connecting you with passionate skiers from around the world.
To cater to diverse interests, Taos offers several specialized programs. The Women’s Ski Week, led by top female coaches, provides a supportive environment for female skiers to push their limits. Other focused weeks include Race, Teen, and even a Military Family Appreciation Ski Week, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every type of skier.
Taos Ski Week 2026 Schedule: All Dates & Options
Navigating the Taos Ski Week 2026 schedule requires understanding the different programs available. From the celebrated Women’s Ski Week to various club-organized trips, each offers a unique package. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you choose.
Women’s Ski Week 2026
This highly sought-after program is designed and led by some of the industry’s top female coaches. It’s a six-day morning camp that creates a supportive and empowering environment for women to refine their skills and explore Taos’s legendary terrain, from wide-open cruisers to technical chutes. It is open to skiers aged 14 and up of all ability levels.
- Dates:
- January 25, 2026
- February 22, 2026
- Booking: Contact Taos Ski Valley directly at 800.776.1111 or visit skitaos.com/lessons.
General Ski Week Programs
Several ski clubs host their own all-inclusive trips to Taos, which bundle lodging, travel, and the iconic Ski Week program. These packages offer incredible value and a built-in community.
Fundbank Ski Club: January 17-24, 2026
This trip offers a comprehensive package perfect for those who want every detail handled. It includes a 5-day IKON pass and the option to add the 6-day Ski Week for a fee.
- Base Cost: $2,959
- Includes: Roundtrip airfare (DCA to ABQ), ground transport, 7 nights at Snakedance Condos, a 5-day IKON pass, and group activities.
- Ski Week Add-On: $350
Wilmington Ski Club: February 7-14, 2026
This package provides flexibility, allowing participants to purchase their ski passes and the Ski Week program separately. It’s an excellent option for IKON pass holders or those who don’t need a full week of lessons.
- Base Cost: $2,200
- Includes: Roundtrip airfare (PHL to ABQ), ground transport, and 7 nights at Snakedance Condos.
- Ski Week Add-On: $390 for a 5-day program.
SCWDC (Ski Club of Washington DC): February 21-28, 2026
Known for its all-inclusive approach, the SCWDC trip bundles the 6-day “Ski Better” Ski Week directly into the base price. This trip is immensely popular and is already FILLED for 2026, but a waitlist is available.
- Base Cost: $2,690 (lift tickets not included)
- Includes: Roundtrip airfare (DCA to ABQ), ground transport, 7 nights at Snakedance Condos, and the 6-day “Ski Better” Ski Week.
Taos Ski Valley: The Mountain Explained
Taos Ski Valley’s reputation precedes it. Known for its steep, challenging terrain and abundant, dry powder, it’s a destination that calls to the soul of any serious skier. But the mountain is more nuanced than its expert-focused image suggests, offering a surprisingly diverse experience for all who visit.
Mountain Statistics & Terrain
First, the numbers. Taos boasts a base elevation of 9,350 feet and a summit that reaches a staggering 12,481 feet. With over 300 inches of average annual snowfall, 1,294 skiable acres, and 110 trails, the scale is impressive. The terrain is almost evenly split, with 51% rated for advanced and expert skiers and 49% for beginners and intermediates. This balance ensures that while experts have a massive playground, progressing skiers are not left behind.
Terrain Breakdown by Difficulty
- Beginner (24%): The lower mountain near the base area is a sanctuary for newcomers. Lifts like the Pioneers quad and the Gondolita service gentle, wide-open groomed runs that are perfect for building confidence and mastering the basics.
- Intermediate (25%): As skills progress, the frontside and backside of the mountain open up. Lifts 4, 7, and 8 lead to long, cruising blue runs, and even some light tree skiing and open bowls like Hunzicker. It’s the ideal environment to transition from cautious turns to dynamic carving.
- Advanced/Expert (51%): This is where Taos truly shines. The resort is famous for its hike-to terrain, including the legendary Kachina Peak, Highline Ridge, and West Basin Ridge. Here, you’ll find steep chutes, tight trees, massive moguls, and wide-open bowls that hold powder for days. It’s a challenging and rewarding experience that attracts skiers from all over the world.
What Makes Taos Special
Beyond its impressive stats, Taos has a unique character. Its terrain is almost entirely north-facing, which preserves the snow quality long into the spring. The combination of high altitude, consistent snowfall, and over 300 days of sunshine a year creates a climate that’s hard to beat. As one of the few remaining family-owned and operated resorts in the country, it has an intimate, soulful vibe that larger corporate resorts lack. This, combined with its world-class ski school, makes Taos a destination that’s both challenging and nurturing.
Pricing Breakdown & Cost Comparison
Understanding the costs associated with Taos Ski Week is crucial for planning your trip. The packages offered by different clubs vary in price and inclusions, so a direct comparison can help you find the best value for your budget. Here’s a table that breaks down the estimated costs for the different 2026 ski week options.
| Organizer | Dates | Base Cost | Includes | Ski Week | Lift Tickets | Total Est. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fundbank Ski Club | Jan 17-24 | $2,959 | Flights, lodging, meals | $350 (Optional) | 5-day IKON Included | $3,309+ |
| Wilmington Ski Club | Feb 7-14 | $2,200 | Flights, lodging, meals | $390 (Optional) | Purchased Separately | $2,590+ |
| SCWDC | Feb 21-28 | $2,690 | Flights, lodging, 6-day Ski Week | Included | Purchased Separately | $3,536+ |
What’s Included vs. Not Included
While packages are designed to be comprehensive, it’s important to know what is typically covered. Most packages include roundtrip airfare, ground transportation from the airport with a grocery stop, seven nights of lodging at the ski-in/ski-out Snakedance Condos, a welcome reception, and group dinners. The main difference lies in how the Ski Week and lift tickets are handled. The SCWDC package, for instance, includes the Ski Week but requires you to purchase lift tickets separately, making it ideal for IKON Pass holders. The Fundbank trip includes a 5-day IKON pass but treats the Ski Week as an add-on. Always review the full details from the trip organizer before booking.
Budget Tips & Savings
There are several ways to make your Taos adventure more affordable. Booking your trip and lift tickets at least 72 hours in advance can unlock significant discounts. If you plan to ski at other resorts during the season, the IKON Pass often provides the best value. Many clubs also offer discounts for seniors (65+), and the group rates inherent in these packages are almost always more economical than booking each component independently.
How to Register & Book Your Ski Week
Booking your spot for a Taos Ski Week is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail and awareness of deadlines. Follow these steps to secure your place on the mountain.
Step-by-Step Registration Process
- Choose Your Week: Start by selecting the program that best fits your schedule, skill level, and budget. Consider whether you prefer the specialized Women’s Ski Week or a general club-organized trip. Pay close attention to availability, as popular weeks like the SCWDC trip fill up fast.
- Verify Requirements: Before you register, make sure you meet any club membership or skill-level prerequisites. Review the cancellation policies carefully, as they vary between organizers.
- Submit Your Application: Complete the trip application form and submit it along with the required deposit. Some trips may also require you to sign and return acknowledgment forms for single supplements or ground-only packages.
- Confirm and Prepare: Once your spot is confirmed, you will receive a pre-arrival email with essential information. This is the time to book your flights if they are not included and arrange for any necessary gear rentals.
Contact Information & Booking Links
- Official Taos Ski Valley (for Women’s Ski Week):
- Phone: 800.776.1111
- Website: skitaos.com/lessons
- SCWDC:
- Website: scwdc.wildapricot.org
- Wilmington Ski Club:
- Website: www.wilmski.org
- Fundbank Ski Club:
- Website: www.fundbankskiclub.org
Important Dates & Deadlines
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Fundbank Deposit Due | October 10, 2025 |
| Wilmington Balance Due | October 1, 2025 |
| SCWDC Balance Due | October 21, 2025 |
| Women’s Ski Week | January 25 & February 22, 2026 |
| Fundbank Trip | January 17-24, 2026 |
| Wilmington Trip | February 7-14, 2026 |
| SCWDC Trip (Waitlist Only) | February 21-28, 2026 |
What to Expect: Your Ski Week Day-by-Day
Your Taos Ski Week is a curated experience from start to finish. On arrival day, you’ll be greeted by your trip leader, transported to the Snakedance Condos, and have a chance to settle in before a welcome reception. The heart of the week, Sunday through Friday, is dedicated to the Ski Week program. Mornings are spent with your group and instructor, exploring the mountain and honing your skills. Afternoons are yours to enjoy—practice what you’ve learned, relax at the lodge, or explore the charming town of Taos. Evenings are filled with group dinners and social events, creating a lively and communal atmosphere.
FAQ: Common Questions About Taos Ski Week 2026
- 1. What is the best month to ski in Taos?
- January and February offer the most consistent powder and excellent snow quality. March is fantastic for warmer spring skiing with fewer crowds.
- 2. Is Taos Ski Week suitable for beginners?
- Yes, but with a caveat. While Taos has beginner-friendly terrain, the mountain is known for its challenging runs. The Ernie Blake Snowsport School is world-class, and the Ski Week program is an excellent way for beginners to build a strong foundation.
- 3. How difficult is Taos skiing compared to other resorts?
- Taos is generally considered more challenging than many other North American resorts, with 51% of its terrain rated as advanced or expert. However, the variety of terrain ensures that intermediate skiers will also find plenty of exciting runs to explore.
- 4. What should I pack for Taos Ski Week?
- In addition to your standard ski gear, be sure to pack layers, as the weather can change quickly. Sunscreen and goggles are essential due to the high altitude and abundant sunshine. Also, remember that Taos Ski Valley is a cashless resort, so plan accordingly.
- 5. Is trip insurance recommended?
- Absolutely. All trip organizers highly recommend purchasing trip insurance to protect your investment against unforeseen circumstances.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Taos Ski Week 2026 is more than a vacation; it’s an investment in your passion for skiing. It’s a chance to dramatically improve your skills, explore a legendary mountain, and connect with a community of like-minded adventurers. With a variety of dates and packages, there is a perfect option for every skier.
But don’t wait too long. The popularity of these programs means they fill up quickly. Choose your week, gather your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable experience on the slopes of Taos.
Ready to book your adventure? Visit the websites of the individual clubs or call Taos Ski Valley directly to reserve your spot in the Women’s Ski Week. The mountains are calling.
