Is this on the regular Taos Ski Valley slopes?
Nope, same valley, other side. All on private land.

What's the riding like?
This is high alpine riding, so the trails and roads vary from smooth dirt and grass in the forest, to loose rocks and gravel in the more open areas. The first mile or so has the most climbing, so don't be discouraged. The steepest trail section is a 23% grade hill climb we call “Big Daddy” on the "Frazer Mountain Road". If you ride the area clockwise you will come down it. There are three other climbs (all on the the "Bull of The Woods Road") which are named the First, Second, and Third "Mothers", mostly because of the loose gravel surface. We do have a single-track bypass for the "Third Mother" called "Sawmill Trail". The majority of the other inclines are less than 15% grade. So the first mile and a half from the trailhead kiosk is the most difficult, after that the climbs are more mellow with plenty of breaks. The "Crossover Road" undulates across the mountain face and connects the "Bull of The Woods Trail" with the "Frazer Mountain Road". Overall the terrain is not considered technical except for a few spots, (and on the expert only trails), but interesting enough to keep you on your toes and having fun. If you don't feel comfortable on single-track trails, you can ride the entire area on double-track roads. Of course the ride back to the Village is a rippin' fun downhill!

What should my ability level be?
Most intermediate or better riders will be able to ride all the routes. It is more important to have a good level of fitness and an adventuresome attitude. If you have to hike the bike up one of the steeper pitches, it is no big deal. Lots of people have to hike in places, even experts. Just let it motivate you to get stronger throughout the season.

How many miles of riding are there and what's the elevation gain?
There are approximately 25 miles of trails and roads. The climb straight to the top of Frazer is 5.5 miles from the parking lot one-way. One loop of the race course from the parking lot is 9 miles. The elevation is between 9,500 and 12,163 feet MSL so expect to be short of breath.

Can I take my dog when I am riding my bicycle?
NO!. Sorry, just too much opportunity for conflict.You may see hikers with dogs while you are on the property.

What should I bring?
Every rider is REQUIRED to wear a helmet and eye protection. It's a smart idea to bring rair gear as afternoon thunderstorms are very common and can move in quickly. Mornings are typically clear blue skies, so don't be fooled. Things can cool off quickly in an alpine environment with a little cloud cover.

Besides the usual bike repair stuff, bring water and a snack to enjoy at one of our many awesome overlooks, a grove of aspen, or a quiet meadow. We also recommend a great attitude for adventure, a smile, and several friends.

What is the climate like?
It varies. The riding season is from mid June to sometime in October, weather permitting. It will always be cooler in the ski valley than anywhere else in New Mexico, normally by several degrees. We usually need to pull on a sweater after the sun goes behind the mountain, even in August.

What is the weather like?
It could literally rain or snow any time in this alpine environment. Storms can come up fast and it can cool off dramatically in a matter of minutes. Most of the time, however, it will be nice and temperate, with bright sunshine and clear blue skies. More on the Weather page.

Are there bicycles available to rent in the ski valley?
Yes, at Alpine Village Suites. They also have special packages for guests of the hotel. More info on the Rentals page. There are several rental companies in Taos also.

What facilities do you have on the Northside?
We have a trailhead kiosk with signs, trail maps, and daily permit applications. Just uphill from the kiosk is a sanitary toilet for public use.

What does it cost?
Your first born child, and two hours hard labor. No, seriously, it's $10 for a daily permit, $30 for a weekly permit, and $100 for a seasonal permit. Hiking is $5 a day, $25 a week, and $100 for a year. Purchase a permit to do all of the above (when purchased at one time) for only $150.

How do I get an access permit?
To purchase a daily or weekly permit, we suggest purchasing them in person from one of the businesses listed on the Access Permit page, or at the trailhead kiosk on the property which is 1/2 mile up the road from the entrance gate.

To purchase a seasonal or yearly permit, you can download and print the application from this site and mail it to us, or visit the Village of Taos Ski Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center.

Where do I get a trail map?
Trail maps are available at the trailhead kiosk. They will also be available wherever access permits are sold or downloaded from the Trail Map page. Please take your map home with you and use it again. Please do not litter.

Are the trails marked?
Yes. All the trails and roads are marked and rated.

Where do I park?
At your cabin, condo or hotel. If you are not staying in the valley, please park in the public parking lot. Ride from wherever you are to the Northside entrance gate and on up. Details are on the Getting Here page. If you don’t already have a pass, have cash or a check and be ready to buy it at the trailhead kiosk.

Are there any Village services?
Plenty. Several places to eat, drink and sleep. Go ride the chair lift (without your bike unfortunately), and check the Events page for upcoming events.

What are your dates and hours?
Usually we can get the trails dried out by mid to late June, and we are expecting snow again anytime by the end of October. Check our web site for late breaking news or updates. Seven days a week, the trails are open during all daylight hours.

Can I camp?
Nope. We have no camping facilities, and no fires are allowed on the property at all. No smoking is allowed on the property either. Anyone violating this rule will be evicted.

Do you have a patrol staff?
Yes. There will be people working at the trailhead at various hours. Staff will be riding the trails, working on the trails, and thinning trees, building improvements, and various other maintenance activities. Please expect to be asked to show your Northside access permit and have it with you at all times. This applies anytime you are on Northside property as defined by the boundaries shown on the trail map.

Why do I need a permit?
Because you are on private land, and you must pay a fee, and you must have permission to access the land. You are welcome to recreate on the property so long as you follow the rules and are courteous to our staff and to other trail users. We have to have real good insurance in order to allow this access, and that costs money. We also have to maintain the trails and create new ones. Please respect the property by picking up after yourself, and by staying on the trails.

Isn’t this public land?
No. This is private land, and you are our guests.

Can I get a family permit or a group rate?
Yes. If you have several members of the same household address who will be riding on Northside, you may purchase one seasonal access permit at full price, and any additional household member’s permit at only $20 per additional rider. If you have a group, please contact us for special rates and arrangements. We will tailor the package for your group.

I heard I could earn a free access permit. Is that really true?
Yes. We will have work days this summer for slope glading and thinning and trail building. If you volunteer and donate help, you can earn actual credits to barter toward any level of permit or pass, summer or winter. You will be expected to follow all the same rules and procedures as always when on the property as part of a work crew.