Taos

Surrounded by stunning wilderness areas and blessed by the striking desert light phenomenon, Taos has upped the ante from its dusty hippie days. The area around Taos - extending down the road a ways to Santa Fe - is one of the most popular destinations in the USA.

Many travelers come for the world-renowned Taos Ski Valley and Carson National Forest, fully decked out and ready to ski, raft, fish, climb or ride. Conversely, there's plenty of art, craft and culture in and around Taos to challenge those who like their extreme adventures on the cerebral side.