Haus party: Taos Ski Valley outdoor rink lets visitors hit the eis

Those who might not want to test their skills on the slopes at Taos Ski Valley have another option: They can hit the ice.

Or more accurately, the Eis.

Established ahead of the 2022 winter season, the Eis Haus skating rink is an ideal spot for both guests who are taking a break from the mountain, as well as visitors who don’t ski or snowboard. The rink is approximately 50 feet wide by 100 feet long — 4,800 square feet in total — and can accommodate as many as 50 people on the ice at once. For many, the Eis Haus is a standalone attraction.

Haus party: Taos Ski Valley outdoor rink lets visitors hit the eis

“Many guests do not ski but enjoy the ice skating experience. This is especially great for families and friends where some of the group skis or rides, but others don’t,” said Rebecca Hagler, Taos Ski Valley marketing manager. “The rink and other activities ensure there is something for everyone. We also offer free ice skating during our annual community weekend for local residents, and we also have many guests who come just to ice skate and enjoy the amenities at The Blake (hotel) and events in the village and the plaza.”

Tickets to skate can only be bought on site at the Eis Haus, which is typically open daily during the winter season from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Operating hours can change during warmer temperatures, which cause the ice to be less firm, or when the rink is buried due to heavy snowfall. The admission price ($25 for adults, $20 for youth and seniors) includes a skate rental. The Eis Haus is accessible to all levels of skill and experience, and concessions — which include hot cocoa, coffee, beer and stroopwafels — are available for purchase.

Skaters will also enjoy a pleasant contrast during their breaks.

“The Eis Haus gives guests the unique experience of fire and ice – the ice of the rink, paired with cozy fireplaces surrounding the space,” Hagler said.

In addition to regular skating hours, the Eis Haus offers ice bocce ($30) at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. each day — and up to eight people can play at a time. There’s also a silent disco on Saturday evenings, which comes with an additional $10 cost for headphones. Meanwhile, the Taos Youth Hockey League uses the rink for weekly practices.

To continue with the winter sports theme, there’s a sledding hill at Taos Ski Valley, located next to Edelweiss Lodge and Spa . According to taosskivalley.com, there is “no charge or specific hours.” However, visitors must bring their own sled or tube if they don’t plan on purchasing one from a nearby retailer.

It’s all in the name of providing numerous options for Taos Ski Valley guests.

“Taos is known for delivering one of the world’s premier skiing and snowboarding experiences, and the ice rink offers an additional attraction for guests, both those who enjoy skiing and riding, and those who don’t ski,” Hagler said.

“The rink is one of several off-mountain experiences that give guests an unparalleled, memory-making adventure when they visit Taos Ski Valley. Other winter activities guests can select from include platform tennis, a sleigh ride dinner to The Bavarian, a spa treatment at The Blake, shopping, dining, or one of many events Taos Ski Valley hosts in the plaza and the Village. It’s all part of our goal to deliver a range of activities and choices for guests so they have a world-class experience.”