Summer officially began last weekend, and warm, long sunny days are upon us. If you need a little boost to get outdoors and enjoy a bit of summer vacation, LiveTaos has a few ideas for you. We think these are some of the best bets for summer — add your summer plans in the comments section!
Enjoy Ice Cream at Taos Cow
It’s summertime, so eat some ice cream and Taos Cow is the place. Two scoops is even better than one, and all their ice cream is all natural, rBGH-free, in uniquely southwestern and traditional flavor combinations. While you’re there enjoy one of their fabulous sandwiches, before or after ice cream — we don’t care which!
Have a Burger at Sugar’s
Yes, it really is worth the trip down the canyon for one of Sugar’s burgers or a BBQ brisket burrito — whether you’re on your way to Santa Fe or just looking for an afternoon cruise. While you’re at it, throw in some curly fries!
Bike the West Rim Trail
Starting at Rio Grande Gorge Bridge Parking Lot, this ride on a edge of Rio Grande is simply a beauty. There are double and single tracks along the seven miles the weave along the edge of the river 1000 feet below. This trail is not a loop so you have to arrange the two-car drop-off setup if you don’t want to ride there and back. If you don’t have a bike, you can always rent one at Gearing Up.
Visit Taos Farmers Market at Taos Plaza
Now that the Taos Farmers Market is in the heart of Taos, it is even better, if you can imagine that. On a Saturday morning, it’s a must-do to get a cup of coffee, then wander around and find the perfect pastry and piece of fresh fruit to enjoy. Then find a sunny spot to sit and listen to the live music, and enjoy the crowds of folk. It is truly a lovely morning over fresh food and community that should not be missed.
Bike the Angel Fire Bike Park
Angel Fire Bike Park was voted No. 1 in the Southwest by a MTBpark.com rider survey in the March 2014. With 60 miles of trails for riders of all abilities, at a base of 10,650’ Angel Fire Bike Park is the experience for both the seasoned downhillers as well as less-experienced riders.
Get out to the river
Even if you don’t get yourself into a raft, get down to the rio! Yes, yes get on a raft and take a ride with one of our great rafting companies. Or head to Wild Rivers, John Dunn Bridge, or Orilla Verde for a picnic. Whatever you decide, enjoy the river on the hot summer days. For other ideas along the Rio Grande, visit Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.
Enjoy Music and Brews (and the Sunset) at Taos Mesa Brewing
A one-of-a-kind spot in Taos, Taos Mesa Brewing is a microbrewery with great pub-style food and the hands-down best views in town at sunset. Stop in for a flight and sample all their brews — stay for a meal and the music. Take home a growler for later.
Enjoy free live music at Taos Plaza Live
Every Thursday night, some of the best musicians in Taos take the stage on the plaza for a free two-hour show. Grab a blanket and some carryout, and enjoy the music. Take a look at the schedule, and make it a date.
Go for a swim at Hooper Pool
Visiting Hooper Pool, officially known as the Sand Dunes Swimming Pool, is like stepping back in time for a day, when concrete swimming pools and high dives were common as public pools, and families would flock there on the hottest summer days with blow-up floaties and BBQ grills. This restored pool, built in the 1930s, is artesian-hot-spring fed, and it is not to be missed.
Watch the World Cup at Taos Ale House
The World Cup is on until mid-July, and the best place in Taos to take in the world’s favorite sport is over a beer and a burger at the Taos Ale House. Crowds gather daily.
Sled the Sand Dunes National Monument
Yes, you will come home with some sand in your shorts, but the views are unbelievable, the hikes are challenging and fun, and a bit of a soak in the river at the base is a great way to cool off. Bring your snowboard or disc sled and once you hike to the top, you can sled or sandboard all the way down! Sand Dunes National Monument is located near Alamosa, just 1 1.5 hours north.
Hike Wheeler Peak
If you say every year that you should do it, well, this should be the year. The Wheeler Peak/Williams Lake trail is beautiful and not too strenuous (by Taoseno standards) and once you’re at the top, the view truly is one to behold. Start early, and finish early with lunch and a pint at the Bavarian Restaurant.
What’s your favorite summer activity? Add it in the comments and we’ll add it to our list!