TAOS, N.M. — The Carson National Forest will temporarily close access to the Wheeler Peak and Williams Lake area from August 21 through August 28, citing support for local community and traditional purposes.
The closure will affect several popular trails, including:
- Williams Lake Trail (#62)
- Wheeler Summit Trail (#67)
- Wheeler Peak Trail (#90) between La Cal Basin and Wheeler Peak
- Lost Lake Trail (#91) between Horseshoe Lake and Wheeler Peak
Additionally, the Williams Lake basin, including Kachina Peak, Lake Fork Peak, and the ridgeline from east of Taos Cone to Simpson Peak, will be closed. A detailed map and Forest Order will be released soon.
“It is critical that the Forest Service listen and work with local communities,” said Forest Supervisor James Duran. “We recognize the inconvenience the temporary closure might bring to visitors and appreciate their flexibility.”
Open Trails During Closure
Visitors can still access the area using the following trails:
- Yerba Trail (#61)
- Manzanita Trail (#58)
- Italianos Trail (#59)
- Gavilan Trail (#60)
- Long Canyon Trail (#63) via Wheeler Peak Trail (#90)
- Gold Hill Trail (#64) via Long Canyon (#63)
For updates and trail maps, visitors are encouraged to check the Carson National Forest website or contact the local ranger district.
