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    Sangre de Cristo MountainsNew MexicoTaos Ski Valley

    Taos Ski Valley Upgrades Lift System with New Triple Chairlift

    Michael FultonMichael Fulton·24 May 2025

    TL;DR

    Taos Ski Valley continues its lift modernisation efforts with the replacement of Lift 7, marking another step in the resort's ongoing improvements to enhance skier experience.

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    Taos Ski Valley Modernises with New Triple Chairlift

    Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico is moving forward with its lift system upgrades. The resort has announced the replacement of Lift 7, also known as Maxi's, with a new Leitner Poma Alpha Drive triple chairlift. This change is part of Taos' ongoing efforts to modernise its lift infrastructure, which has seen significant improvements since 2014.

    Taos Ski Valley Begins Work On New Chairlift - body image 1

    The original Lift 7, a fixed-grip triple chairlift manufactured by Städeli in 1984, will be decommissioned. Taos plans to sell the old chairs and donate the proceeds to charity. This upgrade follows a series of lift installations over the past decade, including the Kachina Peak, Rueggli, Lift 1, Lift 4, and Pioneers chairlifts, as well as the resort's first gondola, Gondolita.

    These improvements have transformed Taos' lift system, introducing the resort's first two high-speed chairlifts and significantly enhancing the skiing experience. The resort's commitment to upgrading its infrastructure has been steadily changing its former reputation for older, slower lifts.

    Looking ahead, Taos Ski Valley has received approval from the US Forest Service for several additional projects outlined in its master plan. These include a potential base-to-base gondola, upgrades to Lifts 2 and 8, and the development of Nordic and snowshoeing trails. A new Lift 7 lodge and restaurant, along with a hiking trail near Lift 4, are also part of the approved plans.

    Taos Ski Valley, located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offers a unique skiing experience with its challenging terrain and high-altitude slopes. The resort's ongoing improvements aim to enhance this experience while maintaining its distinctive character. As these upgrades continue, Taos is positioning itself as a modern ski destination that combines advanced infrastructure with its traditional charm and world-class skiing conditions.

    About the author

    Michael Fulton

    Michael Fulton

    Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.

    50+ resorts visited15 years skiing

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