Taos Ski Valley 2026: High Winds & High Spirits
Twenty-eight Los Amigos skiers gathered at Taos Ski Valley for a spirited ground trip filled with Olympic buzz, skill-building, birthday celebrations, and some serious high winds.
Nearly half road-tripped in while others arranged their own flights — but once we clicked into our skis, we were one team.
Six days of instruction by ability level delivered real results — except Tuesday, when lifts shut down with wind gusts up to 80 mph. Participant surveys confirmed improved confidence and technique, and the value was clear. From refining turns to dialing in ski boot fit — and even swapping advice on heated gloves and battery liners — learning alongside fellow Amigos/as elevated everyone’s game.
A few evenings were filled with Winter Olympics watch parties — downhill, figure skating, hockey — and collective confusion (and hearty laughter) over curling and the memes that followed. We celebrated Amigo Billy and Amiga Jovita in true Los Amigos style, adding even more joy to the week.
We also learned the history behind Taos’ iconic martini tree tradition, dating back to founder Ernie Blake. Carmen McHenry, Terry Kimmel, and Linda Lopez-George proudly capped the week with a celebratory swig after their final descent — just before the frontside lifts shut down Friday late morning due to high winds. With wind chill dipping below zero, we were more than ready for après by the fireplace.
High winds. Lift closures. Independent travel logistics.
That’s where traveling with Los Amigos makes the difference — coordinated instruction, shared expertise, built-in camaraderie, and a community that turns the unexpected into shared stories.
Twenty-eight skiers. Olympic spirit. High winds. Even higher spirits.