In case you’re living under a rock, Taos Ski Valley has lifted it’s Snowboarding ban, ending 53 years of skier-only access. We talked to a few people, and here’s the scoop (in video form.)
When it comes down to it, family is at the heart of the matter. The Blakes want to keep TSV a family-run business, and that means changing to accomodate the evolving snowsports community.
Many people think founder Ernie Blake wouldn’t approve of this change, but his grandchildren, and 3rd generation operators, feel differently. Alejandro Blake says his grandfather was one of the most progressive people in the industry, and thinks it would have happened sooner had there not been initial opposition.
Family also means grown-up snowboarders with children of their own. It means moms who ski and dads who ride and kids who most likely do both. Banning rosey cheeked toddlers from the slopes? Hardly the way to go.
What does this mean to riders? It means access to what Jeff Boliba of Burton calls “one of the top ten freestyle mountains in the US.”
Taos is steep and has epic fall lines. It’s been compared to the Crested Buttes and Jackson Holes in terms of terrain, and Highline Ridge is definitely worth the hike.
Taos is creating a new legacy for itself and at the same time keeping the grassroots family vibe. And whatever you may have heard about skier opposition, let us tell you from firsthand experience it seems that yes, we can all just get along.
..Have an opinion or want to know more? Get it on RideTaos.org
Season ends with a bang at the April 6 Pond Skimming Competition.
Filed under: Extreme Sports, Resort News | Tagged: Burton, Highline Ridge, Snowboarding, Taos
