Taos Ski Valley Snowfall Data & Powder Probability

New Mexico, USA

3,804m / 12,481ftNorth AmericaPeak: Dec – Mar

Taos Ski Valley Snow Conditions Overview

Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico, USA sits at 3,804m (12,481ft) elevation and averages 200cm of annual snowfall based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025). During the ski season, Taos Ski Valley receives approximately 170cm of snow. The best month for powder is March, averaging 39.4cm of snowfall with a 22% powder probability. The highest chance of fresh powder (15cm+ in any given week) occurs in March and February at 22%.

Annual Snowfall
200cm
Elevation
3,804m
Best Month
March
Powder Probability
22%

Snowfall data sourced from ERA5 reanalysis via Open-Meteo Historical Weather API (2015-2025).

Check Taos Ski Valley snow forecast for your dates

Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data

About Taos Ski Valley

Taos Ski Valley snowfall statistics based on 10 years of historical data. See average annual snowfall, best months to ski, and powder probability to help you plan your trip.

Snow & Weather Conditions

We use 10 years of historical data to help you plan — not a live snow report.

The Sangre de Cristo Mountains capture Pacific and Gulf moisture, producing surprisingly deep and dry snowfall at high elevations. Cold nights preserve powder quality. Perched above the treeline in thin, frigid air, resorts at this altitude benefit from a protracted winter where sub-zero temperatures lock in powder quality. Precipitation at these heights crystallises into ultra-dry flakes prized by serious skiers. Expect annual accumulations in the 8-12 metre band, with the compressed base frequently measuring 3-4 metres at its zenith.

Best Time to Ski

The best time to ski at Taos Ski Valley is March and February, with 39.4cm average snowfall and 22% powder probability. Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data from PowderDays. Season runs from late November to early April. January and February are peak powder months. Dive into PowderDays' snow data across 10 winters to find the weeks most likely to deliver fresh powder.

Powder Probability by Month

Chance of 15cm+ fresh snow in any given week (10 years of data):

  • Nov8%
  • Dec8%
  • Jan13%
  • Feb20%
  • Mar22%
  • Apr7%

10-Year Snow History

Monthly average snowfall, record high and low, and powder probability for Taos Ski Valley based on 10 years of historical data
MonthAvg Snowfall (cm)Record HighRecord LowPowder Probability
Nov19.037.12.28%
Dec26.168.91.88%
Jan30.398.315.313%
Feb34.454.013.720%
Mar39.479.47.822%
Apr20.741.88.57%

What Makes It Special

Steep, challenging expert terrain with narrow chutes, bumps, and above-treeline ridgelines. A unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and ski-bum culture creates an atmosphere unlike any other North American resort.

Taos Ski Valley, founded in 1955 by Ernie Blake, is one of the highest ski resorts in North America with a summit elevation of 3,804 metres (12,481 feet). The Sangre de Cristo Range receives an average of 8 metres of annual snowfall, much of it the light, dry powder typical of high-altitude continental climates.

Taos Ski Valley / New Mexico Tourism Department

Data Sources & Methodology

All snowfall statistics for Taos Ski Valley are based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025) from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, which provides ERA5 reanalysis data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). Daily snowfall totals are queried at Taos Ski Valley's coordinates (36.60, -105.45) and 3,804m elevation, then aggregated into monthly averages, record highs/lows, and powder probability scores. Powder probability represents the chance of receiving 15cm or more of fresh snow in any given week during that month.

View printable snow report

Frequently Asked Questions About Taos Ski Valley

What is the average annual snowfall at Taos Ski Valley?
Historical records show Taos Ski Valley averaging 6-12 metres of snow each year, with notable variation between seasons. Expect annual accumulations in the 8-12 metre band, with the compressed base frequently measuring 3-4 metres at its zenith. PowderDays compiles multi-season accumulation figures so you can see how annual totals trend at Taos Ski Valley.
What is the best month to ski at Taos Ski Valley?
Taos Ski Valley is at its best during January and February, the period when persistent cold fronts replenish the snowpack while frigid overnight lows maintain excellent surface texture. Season runs from late November to early April. January and February are peak powder months. PowderDays' seasonal data highlights the periods that have consistently produced the deepest accumulations.
What is the snow like at Taos Ski Valley?
The Sangre de Cristo Mountains capture Pacific and Gulf moisture, producing surprisingly deep and dry snowfall at high elevations. Cold nights preserve powder quality. At 3,804m (12,481ft), the altitude works in Taos Ski Valley's favour, providing persistent sub-zero temperatures that create exceptionally dry, weightless powder.
Is Taos Ski Valley good for beginners?
Taos Ski Valley has something for every visitor, whether they are stepping into bindings for the first time or chasing steep lines. Steep, challenging expert terrain with narrow chutes, bumps, and above-treeline ridgelines. Newcomers benefit from dedicated practice zones and professional instruction, while experienced riders can tackle steep descents, mogul fields, and ungroomed backcountry terrain.
What altitude is Taos Ski Valley ski resort?
Taos Ski Valley stands at an altitude of 3,804m (12,481ft) in New Mexico, USA. The summit's rarified air and persistent frost create ideal conditions for a deep, season-long accumulation of dry snow.