While spending a long weekend in Taos, we decided to get in a hike to take in some of the scenery around Taos Ski Valley. We opted to hike Williams Lake Trail, knowing that there would be a pretty lake to enjoy at the turnaround point.
We began the hike from the parking lot southeast of the ski village. From the trailhead, at 10,190ft elevation, we walked toward the ski lift and then into Taos Ski Valley and past a chair lift. There was a restaurant, Phoenix Grill, which looked like a nice place to stop to grab lunch.
We then followed the crowds (it was a busy weekend after all, and everyone including us seemed to have at least one dog!) and took the left turn towards Williams Lake. There were beautiful alpine trees along the way and plenty of shady places to pull off the trail momentarily to take a break or take photos.
The trail had nearly 1000 feet in elevation gain (with the highest point being just short of Williams Lake, at about 11,140 feet), but there were several flat sections too, making it a moderate hike. Those visiting from lower altitudes may find the hike more challenging though. At 1 1/2 miles in, we reached the junction of Wheeler Peak and Williams Lake. For those looking for more of a challenge and having a bit more time on their hands, there was the option of hiking another 1 1/2 miles to Wheeler Peak. We could see people on the peak and the views from there had to be amazing.
From there it was just another 1/2 mile to Williams Lake. We stopped for a leisurely lunch near the lake before heading back on the same route.
Distance: 4.2 miles
Elevation Gain: ~900 feet