Overview
Williams Lake is the most popular destination in Carson National Forest and one of the most visited alpine lakes in New Mexico. The combination of easy access from Taos Ski Valley, a modest 4.4-mile round trip, and genuinely spectacular scenery explains the consistent crowds on summer weekends. The lake sits at 11,040 feet in a glacial bowl directly below the sheer headwall that forms Wheeler Peak's south face. Snowfields linger on the headwall through midsummer, feeding a network of streams that drain into the lake's clear water.
The trail gains only 900 feet, starting at the already-high elevation of 9,450 feet at the ski valley trailhead. The route is straightforward: a well-maintained path through subalpine forest that opens onto the lake basin in the final half-mile. The lake itself is surrounded by talus on the upper slopes and meadow on the lower shores, with the headwall rising dramatically to the west.
For hikers wanting more from the day, the trail connects to the Wheeler Peak summit route at a junction approximately 1.5 miles from the trailhead. Adding the summit extends the day to 8 miles and 2,700 feet of gain. See the Wheeler Peak trail guide for the summit route details.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1: Ski Valley to Forest Trail. The trail begins at the north end of the ski valley parking area and climbs through a mix of ski runs and subalpine forest. Stay on the signed trail as it enters the trees north of the ski area boundary. The grade is gentle in the first half-mile. Aspen and spruce characterize the lower forest.
Miles 1 to 1.5: Trail Junction and Mid-Forest. A signed junction at approximately mile 1.5 marks the split between the Williams Lake route and the Wheeler Peak route. Keep right for Williams Lake. The trail steepens slightly above the junction and the forest transitions from mixed species to predominantly Engelmann spruce.
Miles 1.5 to 2.2: Treeline and Lake Basin. The trail breaks out of the trees and crosses a short section of tundra before the lake basin opens ahead. The lake comes into view at mile 2, with the headwall rising immediately behind it. The main trail reaches the south shore at mile 2.2. A social trail circles the lake; the full circuit adds approximately 0.5 miles. Retrace the route to the trailhead.
When to Visit
June through October. The lake basin is often accessible by mid-June, though early season may require crossing snowfields. The headwall snowfields persist through July and occasionally into August, making the lake particularly photogenic in early and midsummer. Afternoon thunderstorms in July and August can arrive quickly; the lake basin is exposed above treeline, so plan to be descending by early afternoon.
Fall is excellent: quieter trails, cool temperatures, and the aspen color on the lower portions of the descent.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry the following for Williams Lake:
- Layers (the lake basin is exposed and cooler than the trailhead)
- Water (treat any water from the lake or streams)
- Sunscreen and hat
- Rain shell (afternoon storms possible in summer)
- Trekking poles (useful if extending to Wheeler Peak)
The lake basin is heavily used. Follow Leave No Trace principles closely, especially around the lakeshore: stay on established paths and avoid camping within 200 feet of the water.
Practical Details
No permit is required for Williams Lake (as of 2026). No trailhead fee. Dogs are permitted in the Wheeler Peak Wilderness. Summer visitor services at Taos Ski Valley (restrooms, water) may be available in season; check current operating status. Cell service is limited at the trailhead.
Dispersed camping is permitted in the wilderness but the lake basin receives heavy use. Consider camping at designated sites farther from the lake if possible.
Getting There
From Taos, take NM Highway 150 northeast 18 miles to Taos Ski Valley. The trailhead is at the north end of the ski valley parking lot, clearly signed. Parking fills on summer weekend mornings; arrive by 7 am or earlier to secure a spot. Overflow parking is available in the lower ski valley areas.