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NatureHiking

The 4.2-Mile Williams Lake Trail In New Mexico Takes You Through The Enchanted Carson National Forest

Williams Lake Trail in New Mexico offers a scenic 4.2-mile round-trip hike through Carson National Forest with opportunities to spot wildlife.

Published Oct 28, 2019

Written by 

Monica Spencer

New Mexico is home to plenty of hiking trails that offer spectacular views. If you’re in the mood for a fine forest backdrop for an upcoming hike, read on to learn more about one trail with the perfect setting.

This is William Lake, located in the Taos Ski Valley.

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Sarah Richter/Flickr

Lush, verdant, and serene, this is just the place you’ll want to visit after a hectic week at work.

Williams Lake Trail measures 2.2 miles one-way and slowly snakes from the trailhead behind The Phoenix Grill through a portion of Carson National Forest.

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KrisNM/Flickr

Parts are shaded with lofty pines and the trail is easy to follow.

Expect your legs and bum to get a bit of a workout here!

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Justin Davis/AllTrails

The elevation gain is just steep enough to engage your muscles and you’ll want to make sure to bring a good amount of water, especially on warm, sunny days.

But the workout is most certainly worth it! You’ll get a fantastic view of Williams Lake…

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Sarah Richter/Flickr

...Mother Nature showing off her alluring colors…

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KrisNM/Flickr

...and you may even spot wildlife roaming nearby.

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Sarah Richter/Flickr

If you're lucky, you might spot a mountain goat traipsing the rocky mountainside above!

Who wouldn’t want to spend a sunny afternoon exploring and creating memories in this portion of New Mexico?

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Benjamin Kidder/AllTrails

Williams Lake Trail is a total of 4.2 miles in length and is open year-round. You can find additional details and maps of the trail by visiting the Carson National Forest website.

On the search for another short trail that’s just a bit easier? You may enjoy the 2.5-mile hike in the Sandia Mountains near Albuquerque. Read more in Embudo Spring Is A Simple Hike In New Mexico With Magnificent Nature Views.

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