If skiing Taos all winter for free sounds too good to be true, it isn’t. The resort’s Ski Patrol is looking for about 30 locals to join their Boot & Ski Packing Program, an early-season effort that helps stabilize the snowpack, opens terrain sooner, and rewards volunteers with a season pass that doesn’t cost a dime.

Image: Ski Taos

So, what’s bootpacking all about? It’s exactly what it sounds like, stomping down early-season snow before it gets deep. Every step helps create a firmer, safer base for the storms still to come. The work helps minimize avalanche risks and lets Ski Patrol open up Taos’s famous steeps faster. Plus, it’s one of the best leg workouts you’ll ever get.

Image: Snow+Rock

Here’s the deal. If you commit to 10 full days of bootpacking, you’ll earn an unlimited 2026 season pass. Complete 7 days, and you’ll get a pass with limited blackout dates. Already bought your pass? No worries! You’ll get a refund or upgrade after finishing your days.
A “full day” usually runs 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a lunch break in the middle. Half-days still count, and Ski Patrol keeps track of your progress until you hit your total.

Image: The Denver Post

What you’ll need:

• Avalanche beacon (457kHz)

• Sturdy ski boots

• Reliable skis (no snowboards)

• Warm layers

• Food and water

Snowboards are off-limits since you’ll need free movement in both legs to work efficiently. The program usually starts in early November and runs until the mountain is ready to open, covering areas like Highline Ridge, Kachina Peak, and the Front Steeps.

Image: RED Mountain Resort

Does this kind of snow work really make a difference? Absolutely. A study out of Big Sky, Montana, showed that bootpacked snow developed a denser, more stable base faster than untouched areas. It’s not just tradition, it’s proven mountain science.

Joining this crew isn’t just about earning a pass. It’s about helping build the season from the ground up, getting in shape, and sharing early mornings with a crew that loves the mountain as much as you do. You’ll earn your turns, one stomp at a time, and when winter hits full swing, you’ll already be part of what makes Taos special.

Image: Taos Ski Valley