Cities and Towns in Taos County, New Mexico

Founded in 1852, Taos County is one of 33 counties in the state of New Mexico. Historically, Taos County was one of the nine original counties. The city of Taos is the county seat. With FIPS code of 55, Taos County has a population of 34,623 and area of 2,203 square miles (5,706 km²).

List of all cities in Taos County, NM alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Amalia, NM	87512	575
Angostura, NM	87579	575
Arroyo Hondo, NM	87513	575
Arroyo Seco, NM	87514	575
Carson, NM	87517	575
Cerro, NM	87519	575
Chamisal, NM	87521	575
	87576	575
Columbine, NM	87556	575
Costilla, NM	87524	575
Des Montes, NM	87529	575
El Prado, NM	87529	575
El Rancho Loma Linda, NM	87579	575
El Valle, NM	87521	575
Lama, NM	87556	575
Llano, NM	87543	575
Llano Quemado, NM	87557	575
Ojo Caliente, NM	87549	575
Ojo Sarco, NM	87521	575
Penasco, NM	87553	575
Picuris, NM	87553	575
Pilar, NM	87571	575
Pine View, NM	87579	575
Placita, NM	87579	575
Pot Creek, NM	87571	575
Querinda Park, NM	87558	575
Questa, NM	87556	575
Ranch Taos, NM	87557	575
Ranches of Taos, NM	87557	575
Ranchito, NM	87571	575
Rancho Taos, NM	87557	575
Ranchos de Taos, NM	87557	575
Ranchos Taos, NM	87557	575
Red River, NM	87558	575
Rio Lucio, NM	87553	575
Rnch de Taos, NM	87557	575
Rodarte, NM	87579	575
San Cristobal, NM	87564	575
Talpa, NM	87557	575
Taos, NM	87571	575
Taos Pueblo, NM	87571	575
Taos Ski Valley, NM	87525	575
Trampas, NM	87576	575
Tres Piedras, NM	87577	575
Tres Ritos, NM	87579	575
Vadito, NM	87579	575
Valdez, NM	87580	575
Valle Escondido, NM	87571	575
Ventero, NM	87512	575

Major Cities and Towns in Taos County, New Mexico

Taos

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.8 square miles
• Population: Approximately 5,700
• Zip Codes: 87571
• Latitude: 36.4070° N
• Longitude: 105.5733° W

Location and History

Taos is the county seat of Taos County and one of New Mexico’s most historically significant and culturally vibrant towns. Located in the northern part of the state, Taos is nestled in the high desert near the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, approximately 70 miles north of Santa Fe. The town has a rich history that spans several centuries, from its Native American origins to its later Spanish colonial influence. Taos was originally inhabited by the Taos Pueblo people, one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in North America. The arrival of Spanish settlers in the 1600s led to the construction of Taos Pueblo, which became a center for trade and cultural exchange. In the 1800s, the town grew as a trading post and later attracted artists, writers, and other creatives, making it a haven for the arts and an important part of the Taos School of Art. Taos played a significant role in the settlement of northern New Mexico and continues to be a hub for culture, art, and tourism. Its combination of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences gives Taos a unique cultural landscape that remains an essential part of New Mexico’s identity.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Taos is served by the Taos Municipal Schools district, which includes Taos High School, Taos Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities, with a particular focus on the arts and local history, reflecting the town’s cultural heritage. Taos is home to several important landmarks, including the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the U.S. The Taos Plaza, with its historic adobe buildings, serves as the heart of the town and hosts numerous art galleries, shops, and restaurants. The San Francisco de Asís Mission Church, built in the early 1800s, is another iconic landmark and an excellent example of Spanish Colonial architecture. The town also has a thriving arts scene, with venues like the Harwood Museum of Art and the Taos Center for the Arts. The nearby Rio Grande Gorge Bridge offers breathtaking views and is a popular spot for outdoor activities, including hiking and sightseeing. With its mix of history, art, and natural beauty, Taos attracts both visitors and residents who value its unique atmosphere.

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Angel Fire

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.7 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,200
• Zip Codes: 87710
• Latitude: 36.3865° N
• Longitude: 105.2822° W

Location and History

Angel Fire is a small resort town located in the northern part of Taos County, nestled in the Moreno Valley, and is a popular destination for outdoor activities year-round. The town is situated approximately 25 miles north of Taos and is known for its beautiful mountain views and recreational opportunities, including skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. Angel Fire’s development began in the mid-1960s, when it was established as a ski resort, attracting both tourists and seasonal residents to the area. The name “Angel Fire” comes from the area’s stunning sunsets, which cast a fiery glow over the mountains. The community was built around the Angel Fire Resort, which remains the town’s main economic driver. Over time, the resort has expanded to offer golfing, mountain biking, and a variety of outdoor activities in addition to its ski offerings. Although still small, Angel Fire has become a significant year-round destination for visitors, especially those seeking a peaceful getaway with access to the natural beauty of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Angel Fire is served by the Moreno Valley School District, which includes the Angel Fire Elementary School and the Moreno Valley High School. The district provides education to a small but tight-knit community, with a focus on outdoor activities and environmental education due to the town’s location in a mountain resort area. Key landmarks in Angel Fire include the Angel Fire Resort, which remains the primary attraction, offering skiing in winter and mountain biking, hiking, and golfing in the warmer months. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park is a significant historical site in Angel Fire, dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of Vietnam War veterans. The park offers a memorial, museum, and peaceful grounds for visitors. Additionally, the surrounding Carson National Forest provides opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing, making Angel Fire a popular destination for those who appreciate both history and outdoor recreation. The town’s natural beauty and year-round activities make it a favorite among visitors and residents alike.

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Questa

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.9 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,800
• Zip Codes: 87556
• Latitude: 36.5996° N
• Longitude: 105.5873° W

Location and History

Questa is a small town located in the northern part of Taos County, approximately 20 miles northeast of Taos. The town is situated in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Carson National Forest. The area has been inhabited for centuries, with the Taos Pueblo people being the original residents. European settlers arrived in the region in the 18th century, and Questa developed as a small agricultural community, with farming and livestock as the primary economic activities. In the late 19th century, the discovery of silver and other minerals led to a brief mining boom, which significantly impacted the town’s growth. However, mining operations declined in the 20th century, and the town transitioned back to its agricultural roots. Today, Questa remains a quiet, rural community with a strong emphasis on family, farming, and outdoor activities. It is also a gateway to the larger recreational areas of the Carson National Forest, drawing visitors who enjoy hiking, camping, and nature exploration.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Questa is served by the Questa Independent Schools district, which includes Questa High School, Questa Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district offers a variety of programs focused on academics and environmental stewardship, making use of the town’s natural surroundings. Notable landmarks in Questa include the historic Questa Church of San Antonio de Padua, which serves as a focal point for the local community and a symbol of the town’s long history. The nearby Rio Grande Gorge provides visitors with stunning views and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and birdwatching. The town also serves as a gateway to the Taos Plateau, a region known for its volcanic geology and unique landscapes. With its small-town charm and proximity to outdoor attractions, Questa is a favorite for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful rural lifestyle in northern New Mexico.

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Arroyo Seco

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.0 square miles
• Population: Approximately 200
• Zip Codes: 87514
• Latitude: 36.5272° N
• Longitude: 105.6273° W

Location and History

Arroyo Seco is a small village located about 10 miles north of Taos, nestled in a scenic valley between the Taos Mountains and the Rio Grande Gorge. The name “Arroyo Seco” means “dry creek” in Spanish, referring to the seasonal creek that runs through the area. The village was originally a settlement for Spanish settlers in the 18th century, and it has retained much of its rustic, traditional feel. The town was primarily agricultural, with farming and ranching being the main sources of income for its residents. As Taos grew in the 20th century, Arroyo Seco remained a quiet and secluded spot, popular with those seeking a peaceful rural lifestyle. Over time, the village has become a popular destination for artists, musicians, and tourists who are drawn to its natural beauty and close-knit community. Although small in population, Arroyo Seco has a rich history and remains a charming escape from the busier towns of northern New Mexico.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Arroyo Seco is part of the Taos Municipal Schools district, and students typically attend schools in Taos. The small size of the village means that there are no schools directly within the town, but it benefits from being part of the larger Taos educational network. Key landmarks in Arroyo Seco include the historic Nuestra Señora de los Remedios Church, which dates back to the 19th century and remains a central gathering point for the community. The village is also known for its scenic beauty, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Rio Grande Gorge. Arroyo Seco’s location provides easy access to the Taos Ski Valley and the Taos Pueblo, both of which are major attractions for visitors. The village is also home to a number of art galleries, small shops, and restaurants, contributing to its growing reputation as an arts and cultural hub. With its combination of natural beauty, historical charm, and artistic community, Arroyo Seco continues to attract visitors looking for a quieter, more rural New Mexico experience.

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Red River

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.1 square miles
• Population: Approximately 500
• Zip Codes: 87558
• Latitude: 36.6955° N
• Longitude: 105.3993° W

Location and History

Red River is a mountain resort town located in the northern part of Taos County, about 36 miles north of Taos. It is nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and has been a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts for many years. The town was founded during the 19th-century gold and silver rush, and it quickly grew as a mining town. The mining operations that were once the foundation of the town’s economy have long since faded, but Red River has reinvented itself as a year-round resort destination. Known for its ski slopes in the winter and hiking, biking, and fishing in the summer, Red River has become a central hub for outdoor recreation in New Mexico. The town’s location in the high mountains provides a stunning natural backdrop, attracting visitors who appreciate both its history and its recreational opportunities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Red River is served by the Red River Valley Charter School, which provides K-8 education for local children. The school is known for its focus on the outdoors and environmental education, in keeping with the town’s resort-oriented lifestyle. Major landmarks in Red River include the Red River Ski Area, which is one of the top ski resorts in New Mexico, offering a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders. The town is also close to the Carson National Forest, which offers miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for camping and fishing. Red River’s scenic Main Street features charming shops, restaurants, and galleries, many of which highlight the town’s mining and western heritage. The nearby Wheeler Peak Wilderness Area, which contains New Mexico’s highest peak, offers visitors a chance to explore rugged mountain terrain and spot local wildlife. Red River remains a popular destination for those seeking both winter sports and summer adventures in the beautiful northern New Mexico landscape.