Alta vs Taos Ski Valley
Comparing Alta (UT) and Taos Ski Valley (NM) on price, terrain, snowfall, and lift wait. Numbers from the 2026 season.
Alta
Alta, UT
Mountain Collective pass
Window price$125
Online (advance)$89
Season pass—
Taos Ski Valley
Taos, NM
Mountain Collective pass
Window price$115
Online (advance)$80
Season pass—
Side-by-side
| Stat | Alta | Taos Ski Valley | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window lift ticket | $125 | $115 | Taos Ski Valley |
| Online (30+ days) | $89 | $80 | Taos Ski Valley |
| Season pass | — | — | Tied |
| Annual snowfall | 547" | 177" | Alta |
| Skiable acres | 2,614 | 1,294 | Alta |
| Vertical drop | 2,538' | 3,131' | Taos Ski Valley |
| Runs | 118 | 119 | Taos Ski Valley |
| Lifts | 8 | 13 | Taos Ski Valley |
| Summit elevation | 11,068' | 12,481' | Taos Ski Valley |
| Beginner terrain | 25% | 13% | Alta |
| Advanced terrain | 35% | 33% | Alta |
| Average lift wait | 8 min | 5 min | Taos Ski Valley |
The Match
Taos Ski Valley is cheaper at the gate ($80 vs $89 entry). Alta is significantly bigger (2,614 vs 1,294 acres). Alta sees more snow (547" vs 177"). Both are on the Mountain Collective pass — same pass, same wallet.