New Mexico
Taos, NM, Bike Park Report: Spice Up Your Summer With a Visit to New Mexico – SnowBrains


Known for its gnarly terrain and rich ski history, Taos Ski Valley is nestled in the shadow of New Mexico’s tallest point: Wheeler Peak. With a past dating back to the 1950s , Taos has been a world-class ski destination for many. But, it’s so much more than just a ski resort. Taos Ski Valley is a community, centered around the “pure mountain experience, where local culture and traditional European hospitality form a welcoming spirit rooted in the natural environment.” This spirit of community, hospitality, and adventure, cultivated by founder Ernie Blake, is every bit as true in the summer as it is in the winter. On a recent trip, I was lucky enough to experience the spirit of Taos in the summertime.
Taos’ bike park is situated below the resort’s infamous Kachina Peak. This is the bike park’s fourth operating year after missing last season because of the upgrade and replacement of Lift 4. The new highspeed Lift 4 was an exciting upgrade for skiers this past season. Now the downhill bikers enjoy the same benefits of a faster chair with quicker laps.
The bike park features a variety of 13, lift-accessed, trails stretched across the back side of the resort. The trails range from tight smooth berms and fun rollers, to steeper technical trails that will test your skills and get your adrenaline pumping. In classic Taos fashion, even the bike park green, “Green Chile,” is a little spicy. Green Chile, the main green from top to bottom, is flowy and fun. It’s the perfect warm-up run to find your groove, but still technical enough to ride over and over without getting bored. The more difficult trails have features like drops, jumps, and berms with rocks and roots to navigate around.
Downhill biking can be intimidating but unlike other major resort bike parks, the Taos Bike Park is extremely welcoming. Staying true to Ernie Blake’s vision of hospitality and welcoming spirit, anyone can find a trail for their level at the Taos Bike Park. If it’s your first time biking at Taos, there’s no downside to having an instructor guide you through the trails. They know the mountain like the back of their hand and offer advice on form and style—it’s a game changer. For novices, try taking a Mountain Bike 101 class. The instructors are knowledgeable and encouraging. Not only will you feel confident while descending, but you’ll finish the day feeling like you have expanded your skill set and knowledge of the mountain and sport.
At the base of Lift 4 is the Kachina Sports Shop which is stocked with everything you’ll need for a day of ripping on the mountain. It’s here where you’ll find the lift ticket office and rentals offered through the resort. They have it all, from full-suspension rental bikes, protective full-face and regular bike helmets, shin and elbow pads, and even sternum protectors and GoPro mounts. There’s even a tech shop if you need to catch up on regular maintenance or have a gear malfunction while out on the trails.
Aprés shredding the mountain, take a pit stop at the Bavarian, a picturesque European restaurant located at the base of Lift 4. The Bavarian embodies the essence of Ernie Blake’s vision of bringing European culture to Taos Ski Valley. Here you can enjoy a German beer and pretzel with your riding pals while soaking in the rays with a view of Kachina Peak. With plans to build bocce ball and volleyball courts out front, the Bavarian is the ultimate hang-out spot.
Biking is a great way to experience the mountain, but downhill biking may not be for everyone. Taos Sports Shop rents E-bikes and is a fun alternative to downhill biking. It’s a great way to zip around the base area and enjoy the mountain. Taos Sports Shop is conveniently located on the front side of the resort, on the plaza level of The Blake Hotel.
Back on the front side of the mountain, at the base of Taos Ski Resort, you’ll find a variety of accommodations, including The Blake hotel. When staying at The Blake – named after founder Ernie Blake and the Blake family – you’re right in the heart of it all. Everything you’ll need is conveniently within walking distance, which means you won’t need your car. The Blake offers complimentary valet parking for its guests. Restaurants like the Taos Ale House, The Blonde Bear, 192 at the Blake, and Rhoda’s, are just steps from the hotel. The Black Diamond Coffee Cart offers a quick breakfast option with burritos, quiches, yogurt with granola, and an assortment of coffees. It’s easy to grab and go before you head out on your next adventure.
The beauty of Taos Ski Valley is there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re an avid outdoor adventurist, or just looking for a peaceful escape in the beautiful Rocky Mountains it can be found here. In addition to the endless outdoor activities, Taos Ski Valley puts on a variety of weekend events throughout the summer. Events range from local art markets, yoga classes, fly fishing gear demos, outdoor movies, and even games for the kiddos on the Eis Haus lawn. There’s even a pickleball court where you can challenge your friends and family.
Taos is a B-certified corporation and has the well-being of the environment at the forefront of everything they do – including the Chili Cook-off. Taos is committed to using eco-friendly and sustainable materials for its events, such as the recyclable paper cups used throughout the Chili Cook-off. This was a welcome change as opposed to single-use styrofoam cups that were previously used.
After exploring the mountain, chasing adrenaline, and enjoying the festivities around the base, the perfect way to unwind is at the Spa and Wellness Center at The Blake. It’s the best way to relax and recover after an adventure. There’s a variety of treatments to choose from: massages, facials, and aromatherapy. Before, (and even after) your treatments consider relaxing in the steam room, hot tub, or by the pool. Surrounded by historical paraphernalia from local tribes as well as the rich history of Ernie Blake’s past with the mountain, the Spa at The Blake is a great way to embrace the culture and relaxation as your trip begins to wind down.
Taos Ski Valley offers an unforgettable blend of adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re navigating the exhilarating trails, indulging in local cuisine, or relaxing at The Blake Spa, the spirit of Taos—rooted in hospitality and natural beauty—shines through. Give yourself the chance to reconnect with the mountains and even your own spirit. Pack your bags and experience the magic of Taos, where every moment promises discovery and delight.
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New Mexico
New Mexico 78-71 VCU (Dec 18, 2024) Game Recap – ESPN

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — — Donovan Dent finished with 40 points for New Mexico in a 78-71 victory over VCU on Wednesday night.
Dent added five rebounds for the Lobos (9-3). Nelly Junior Joseph scored 15 points while shooting 5 of 11 from the field and 5 for 8 from the line and added 11 rebounds. Mustapha Amzil shot 5 of 12 from the field and 5 of 7 from the free-throw line to finish with 15 points, while adding eight rebounds.
The Rams (9-3) were led by Max Shulga, who recorded 20 points and two steals. Phillip Russell added 13 points for VCU. Joe Bamisile also had 12 points and two steals. The Rams broke a five-game winning streak with the loss.
New Mexico took the lead with 11:11 to go in the first half and never looked back. The score was 37-30 at halftime, with Dent racking up 15 points. Dent scored 25 points down the stretch in the second half to help lead New Mexico to a seven-point victory.
NEXT UP
New Mexico’s next game is Saturday against Colorado State on the road, and VCU hosts William & Mary on Sunday.
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
New Mexico
USC lands speedy New Mexico running back Eli Sanders in transfer portal

Sanders says he’s aiming to win USC’s RB1 job in 2025, and is coming off a breakout 2024 with New Mexico where he ran for 1,063 yards and nine touchdowns.
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New Mexico
New Mexico Transfer Running Back Eli Sanders Commits to USC Trojans Over Arkansas, Michigan State

The USC Trojans have landed a commitment from former New Mexico running back Eli Sanders over Arkansas, Michigan State, Virginia Tech and Arizona after he spent the last couple of days on campus. Sanders is the second player to commit to the Trojans, joining former San Jose State cornerback DJ Harvey since the transfer portal opened on Dec. 9. He was the No. 17 running back in the 247Sports Transfer Portal Rankings and will have one season of eligibility remaining.
Sanders signed with Iowa State as a three-star prospect coming out of Chandler (AZ) High School in the 2021 recruiting cycle. He spent three seasons with the Cyclones, rushing for 703 yards and four touchdowns and added 15 receptions for 135 yards and one touchdown before he transferred to New Mexico in 2024. This season he rushed for 1,063 yards and nine touchdowns and caught 15 passes for 134 yards with the Lobos. Sanders announced on Dec. 6 that he would be entering the portal.
“Coach Lincoln Riley, coach Anthony Jones Jr. and the entire staff just made the whole experience at USC awesome,” Sanders told 247Sports. “It was a family oriented atmosphere there. It’s going to be close to home for me, too, just about an hour and half away from family in Oceanside. The offense is a great fit for me; I feel very comfortable running counter, going either inside or outside zone. It’s perfectly fitted for my skillset.”
Running back was a big area of need with Woody Marks headed off to the NFL following a stellar senior season. Marks carried the ball 198 times for 1,133 yards and nine touchdowns. He became the first Trojans players to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark since Ronald Jones in 2017 and earned Second-Team Big-Ten honors. Marks was a consistent threat out of the backfield, and he played with a toughness and passion that resonated with the entire team.
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MORE: Ohio State Buckeyes to Land Transfer Portal Running Back Quinten Joyner From USC?
Redshirt freshman Quinten Joyner entered the portal when it opened on Dec. 9. Joyner carried the ball 63 times for 478 yards and three touchdowns this season. He averaged 7.6 yards per carry. The former four-star prospect in 2023 recruiting cycle possessed elite speed and had the ability to break a long run at moment. Joyner was an excellent complimentary back for Marks and stepped up throughout the season whenever his number was called. Ohio State has emerged as the favorite to land the former Trojans running back after a visit to Columbus last weekend.
“USC had two phenomenal backs last season and seeing their production, seeing how they were able to run the football, it’s definitely got me excited about my fit in the scheme,” Sanders told 247Sports. “It was definitely a dream school of mine growing up, going to games at the Coliseum and once I got the opportunity in the portal I knew I wanted to play for USC.”
Coach Lincoln Riley has looked to the portal to find his lead running back every season he has been at USC. In 2022, he signed Travis Dye from Oregon and Ausin Jones from Stanford. In 2023, it was MarShawn Lloyd from South Carolina and then Marks from Mississippi State this season. And now it will be Sanders in 2025.
MORE: USC Trojans Offensive Lineman Elijah Paige ‘Never Had Interest’ in Transfer Portal
MORE: Quarterback Miller Moss Transfers to Louisville From USC Trojans, Lincoln Riley
MORE: USC Trojans Football Schedule: Grueling Road Opponents, Intriguing Home Slate In 2025
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