Pulling into Taos felt like stumbling upon a well-kept secret whispered among travelers. Our sprinter van, packed with essentials and non-essentials alike, had finally brought us to this enigmatic town nestled in the high desert of New Mexico.
We weren’t sure what to expect—just that Taos had a reputation for being a haven for artists, thrill-seekers, and anyone who didn’t quite fit into the conventional mold. Armed with curiosity and a slightly malfunctioning GPS, we set out to uncover what makes Taos tick.
A Quick Dive into Taos History
Taos isn’t just another dot on the map; it’s a cultural melting pot with a history as rich as its landscapes. Established in 1615, this town of around 6,000 residents has been a crossroads for Native American tribes, Spanish explorers, and more recently, artists and free spirits.

The Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to over a millennium of continuous habitation. With its adobe structures and enduring traditions, it’s a living museum that offers a window into the past.
At an elevation of 6,969 feet, Taos combines natural beauty with a storied past, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking more than just a scenic backdrop.
1. Conquering the Wheeler Peak Trail
- Address: Wheeler Peak Trailhead, Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525
- Price: Free
- Distance from Downtown: 19 miles
Our sprinter van barely flinched as we navigated the winding roads up to the Wheeler Peak Trailhead. Standing at 13,161 feet, Wheeler Peak is the highest point in New Mexico—a fact that became all too real as we started the ascent.
The 8-mile out and back trail lures you in with gentle forested paths before revealing its true colors with steep inclines and rocky terrains.
As we climbed higher, the trees gave way to alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers and the occasional curious marmot. The air thinned out, and conversations turned into gasps for oxygen. Reaching the summit felt like standing on top of the world, with panoramic views that stretched beyond the horizon.
The descent was kinder on the lungs but brutal on the knees—a small price to pay for such an exhilarating experience.
Taos Vibe Scale
- Adventure: 10/10
- Scenery: 9/10
- Altitude Challenge: 11/10
- Overall: 10/10
2. Immersing Ourselves at Taos Pueblo
- Address: 120 Veterans Highway, Taos, NM 87571
- Price: $16 per adult
- Distance from Downtown: 2 miles
Parking our sprinter van near the ancient adobe structures of Taos Pueblo felt like stepping back in time. This isn’t a replica or a tourist trap; it’s a living, breathing community that has been inhabited for over 1,000 years.
The multi-storied adobe buildings, with their thick walls and wooden ladders, exude an aura of timelessness.
A local guide shared stories that textbooks tend to gloss over, offering insights into the Pueblo’s history, culture, and resilience. We wandered through narrow pathways, visited artisan shops selling handmade pottery and jewelry, and even sampled some traditional frybread.
Leaving Taos Pueblo, we carried with us not just souvenirs but a profound respect for a culture that thrives amidst modern encroachments.
Taos Vibe Scale
- Cultural Depth: 10/10
- Authenticity: 9/10
- Tourist Presence: 6/10
- Overall: 9/10
3. Navigating the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway
- Starting Point: Taos Plaza
- Price: Free (excluding fuel)
- Distance from Downtown: 0 miles (it’s a loop)
Our sprinter van seemed eager as we set out on the 84-mile Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway. This loop is more than just a road; it’s a journey through diverse landscapes that include towering mountains, verdant valleys, and quirky little towns that you’d miss if you blinked.
Stops along the way included Eagle Nest Lake, where we skipped stones and pondered life’s big questions, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Angel Fire, which offered a sobering counterpoint to the natural beauty surrounding us.
Each twist and turn revealed new vistas, from aspen groves shimmering in the sunlight to rugged cliffs that dared us to question the permanence of anything.
Taos Vibe Scale
- Scenic Beauty: 11/10
- Road Trip Quality: 9/10
- Traffic: 2/10
- Overall: 10/10
4. Wine Tasting at La Chiripada Winery
- Address: 941 Calle Sin Nombre, Dixon, NM 87527
- Price: $8 tasting fee
- Distance from Downtown: 25 miles
Hidden in the Embudo Valley, La Chiripada Winery defies all logic about where good wine can be made. This family-owned establishment has been producing award-winning wines since the 1980s, leveraging the unique high-desert terroir.
We sampled a variety of wines, from crisp whites that danced on the palate to robust reds that lingered just long enough. The staff was knowledgeable without a hint of snobbery, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
Leaving with a few bottles tucked away in the van, we felt like we’d discovered one of Taos’s best-kept secrets.
Taos Vibe Scale
- Wine Quality: 9/10
- Atmosphere: 8/10
- Value: 8/10
- Overall: 9/10
5. Savoring Brews at Taos Mesa Brewing
- Address: 20 ABC Mesa Rd, El Prado, NM 87529
- Price: $5–$7 per beer
- Distance from Downtown: 8 miles
Amidst the expansive mesa lands, Taos Mesa Brewing emerges like a mirage offering respite to the weary traveler. The industrial design, complete with shipping containers and metal sculptures, sets the stage for a unique experience.
We tried their signature beers—the Kölsch was light and refreshing, while the Scottish Ale offered a richer, maltier profile. Live music filled the air as we relaxed on the outdoor patio, watching the sun dip below the horizon in a blaze of colors that seemed almost otherworldly.
Taos Vibe Scale
- Beer Selection: 9/10
- Live Music: 8/10
- Atmosphere: 9/10
- Overall: 9/10
6. Discovering the Past at the Kit Carson Home and Museum
- Address: 113 Kit Carson Rd, Taos, NM 87571
- Price: $7 per adult
- Distance from Downtown: 0.2 miles
The Kit Carson Home and Museum offers a nuanced look at one of America’s most legendary—and controversial—figures. Located in his former home, the museum presents artifacts and exhibits that shed light on his life as a frontiersman, explorer, and soldier.
Walking through the rooms, we encountered personal belongings, weapons, and documents that painted a picture far more complex than the folklore. The museum doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of his legacy, prompting reflections on history, myth, and morality. We left with a deeper understanding that heroes are often flawed, and history is rarely black and white.
Taos Vibe Scale
- Educational Value: 8/10
- Historical Insight: 7/10
- Crowd Size: 5/10
- Overall: 8/10
7. Standing Tall at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge
- Address: US Hwy 64, Taos, NM 87571
- Price: Free
- Distance from Downtown: 12 miles
The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is not for the faint of heart. Spanning 1,280 feet and hovering 565 feet above the Rio Grande, it’s one of the highest bridges in the United States. As we walked across, the sheer drop beneath us was both terrifying and exhilarating.
Vendors lined parts of the bridge’s western side, selling handmade crafts and trinkets that added a human touch to the vastness of the landscape. The views were unparalleled, offering a glimpse into the raw beauty of the gorge carved by the relentless river below.
Taos Vibe Scale
- Spectacle: 10/10
- Thrill Factor: 9/10
- Accessibility: 8/10
- Overall: 9/10
8. Rafting the Rio Grande with Los Rios River Runners
- Address: 4003 NM-68, Ranchos De Taos, NM 87557
- Price: $65–$120 per person (depending on trip length)
- Distance from Downtown: 4 miles
Seeking a different kind of thrill, we booked a rafting trip with Los Rios River Runners to tackle the rapids of the Rio Grande. The river offers sections suitable for both beginners and seasoned rafters, making it an accessible adventure for most.
Our guide was a seasoned river rat with stories as wild as the rapids themselves. We navigated through Class III and IV rapids, with names like “Souse Hole” and “The Rock Garden,” which were as intimidating as they sound.
The adrenaline rush was palpable as we paddled in unison to the guide’s commands. By the end of the trip, we were soaked, exhausted, and exhilarated—a trifecta that defines any great adventure.
Taos Vibe Scale
- Adrenaline Rush: 10/10
- Scenic Beauty: 9/10
- Guides’ Expertise: 10/10
- Overall: 10/10
9. Dining Elegantly at The Love Apple
- Address: 803 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571
- Price: Entrées $25–$35
- Distance from Downtown: 1.5 miles
Set in a charming old chapel, The Love Apple is a culinary gem that focuses on organic and locally sourced ingredients. The ambiance is intimate, with candlelit tables and rustic decor that sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.
We indulged in dishes like grilled elk and quinoa-stuffed peppers, each plate artfully presented and bursting with flavor. The service was impeccable, striking the right balance between attentive and unobtrusive. It was a dining experience that left us feeling both satisfied and inspired.
Taos Vibe Scale
- Culinary Excellence: 10/10
- Ambiance: 9/10
- Service Quality: 8/10
- Overall: 9/10
10. Exploring Earthship Biotecture
- Address: 2 Earthship Way, Tres Piedras, NM 87577
- Price: $8 per adult
- Distance from Downtown: 17 miles
Just when we thought Taos couldn’t surprise us anymore, we visited Earthship Biotecture—a community of sustainable homes built from recycled materials like tires, bottles, and cans. These off-grid structures are not just eco-friendly; they’re architectural marvels that challenge conventional building practices.
The self-guided tour allowed us to explore the innovative designs and learn about sustainable living systems like solar power and water harvesting. It was both educational and inspiring, prompting us to reconsider our own environmental footprints.
Taos Vibe Scale
- Innovation: 10/10
- Educational Impact: 9/10
- Quirkiness: 9/10
- Overall: 9/10
11. Hiking the Devisadero Loop Trail
- Address: US-64, Taos, NM 87571 (Trailhead near El Nogal Picnic Area)
- Price: Free
- Distance from Downtown: 3 miles
The Devisadero Loop Trail offers a moderate 5.6-mile hike rich in both natural beauty and historical significance. Historically used as a lookout point, the trail provides panoramic views of the Taos Valley and surrounding mountains.
We trekked through piñon and juniper forests, the scent of sagebrush accompanying us along the way. The trail was lightly trafficked, offering a peaceful escape from the bustle of town. Reaching the summit, we found stone remnants of old lookout structures—a subtle nod to the area’s storied past.
Taos Vibe Scale
- Trail Quality: 8/10
- Serenity: 7/10
- View Reward: 8/10
- Overall: 8/10
PRO TIP: Into the Wild: Free Camping at Cebolla Mesa Campground (Just outside of Taos)
Mapping Out the Ultimate Three-Day Itinerary
Planning isn’t usually our strong suit, but Taos deserves a bit of forethought to truly appreciate its eclectic offerings. Here’s how we’d structure an ideal three-day adventure.
Day 1
Morning
Start with a bang by tackling the Wheeler Peak Trail. Early mornings are best to avoid the afternoon heat and to give yourself ample time to conquer New Mexico’s highest peak.
Afternoon
After the descent, grab a hearty lunch in town before immersing yourself in history at Taos Pueblo. The cultural depth provides a nice contrast to the morning’s physical exertion.
Evening
Reserve a table at The Love Apple for an unforgettable dining experience. Trust us; your taste buds will thank you.
Day 2
Morning
Get your adrenaline pumping with a rafting trip on the Rio Grande with Los Rios River Runners. The morning chill adds an extra layer of excitement to the rapids.
Afternoon
After drying off, head to Earthship Biotecture to explore sustainable living at its quirkiest. It’s a thought-provoking way to spend the afternoon.
Evening
Unwind at Taos Mesa Brewing, enjoying craft beers and live music as the sun sets over the mesa.
Day 3
Morning
Embark on the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, taking your time to stop at points of interest like Eagle Nest Lake and Angel Fire.
Afternoon
Swing by La Chiripada Winery for a wine tasting that defies high-desert expectations. Stock up on your favorites; they make great souvenirs.
Evening
Cap off your trip with a visit to the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge at sunset. It’s a fitting finale that encapsulates the beauty and awe of Taos.
We’ll Head Back To Taos as Quickly as We Can
Taos is more than a destination; it’s a mosaic of experiences that challenge, inspire, and rejuvenate. From scaling peaks to floating above the earth, from ancient dwellings to avant-garde architecture, this town defies categorization.
Our journey in the sprinter van showed us that the best adventures are often found off the beaten path, in places that don’t quite fit into any single narrative.
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