Williams Lake

Above the Taos Ski Valley, Williams Lake is one of the most popular alpine hikes in New Mexico. The trail climbs through pine forest and rocky terrain before opening up to a clear lake beneath the high peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Starting above 10,000 feet near Taos Ski Valley, the trail is about 2 miles one way, with roughly 1000 feet of elevation gain. Snow can linger into late spring, and winter travel requires proper gear. The trail is popular, but it still feels like a real mountain hike. There is trailhead parking near The Bavarian Restaurant at 36.579482, -105.439956, and the same trail can be used to head up to Wheeler Peak. If you’re in Taos, this is the perfect hike to get a taste of the mountain without committing a full day.