Do I need a 4 wheel drive vehicle for my visit to Taos Ski Valley?

Do I need a 4 wheel drive vehicle for my visit to Taos Ski Valley?

We get this question all the time.  Taos Ski Valley is located at 9,500 feet above sea level and in the winter receives frequent snow storms (we hope).  No matter where you are coming from the vast majority of your trip to Taos Ski Valley will be on highways and roads below 7,000 feet where snow is much rarer.  The last 12 miles of your trip however from the town of Taos to Taos Ski Valley on highway 150 is where you will climb into the mountains where snow and more difficult driving conditions are more common.  This stretch of road is our “lifeline” where nearly everyone who works in TSV (not mention all our guests) drives up and down everyday so it is generally well plowed and sanded for traffic.  Generally a 4 wheel drive vehicle will not be needed but there may be times in the middle of a big storm and between plow runs where that highway can be a little “tricky”.  Generally a front wheel drive vehicle and a little extra care will get you here without issues.