Taos Quest

Santa Fe's smaller, mellower and more-freewheeling sibling, Taos, is a natural beauty with an eccentric vibe and a dramatic gorge cutting across its gloriously rugged landscape. Head to Taos Ski Valley for a hike with two persuasive attractions—a beautiful lake that's an ideal picnic setting, and a beckoning summit meant for those who want to test their mettle. (On your way, you'll pass through the tiny town of Arroyo Seco; pick up some fresh deli sandwiches at Taos Cow, also famous for its award-winning ice cream.) The trail to Williams Lake ascends 2 miles (one-way) through spruce-fir forest paralleling the Lake Fork of the Rio Hondo. Pop out at the lake and behold the stunning serrated mountain peaks of the Sangre de Cristo range. Cool your feet in the glacier-fed water, eat some of your sandwich, and contemplate your next move. Still have some pep in those legs? Take things to the next level by bagging the summit of the highest mountain in New Mexico, Wheeler Peak. This feat's a little easier said than done. Getting to the top requires climbing 2,000 feet in about a mile! But take heart: This is not a technical ascent requiring ropes or rock climbing—it's a partial scree-scramble that's more about patience (go at your own pace), common sense (afternoon thunderstorms can cut your trip short); and fortitude (yes, you can do it!). On a clear day the payoff is nothing short of grandiose. Views span the high desert all the way to the snow-dusted mountains of Colorado.

TIP: Post-hike, refuel and relish your achievement on the outdoor deck of The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant (located at the trailhead). A hot après scene in the winter, this Alps-inspired respite is slimmer on crowds during summer. Enjoy hearty goulash washed down with a German hefeweizen..

From Taos drive 4 miles north on NM 522 and turn right on NM 150. Continue for 15 miles to Taos Ski Valley. Don't park at the main parking lot; follow the signs for the Bavarian Lodge, going another 2 miles on a dirt road. Park at the hikers area and follow the trail signs for Williams Lake. Once at the lake, the trail for Wheeler Peak forks left near the wooden sign for Williams Lake. There is another longer and (relatively) more moderate approach to Wheeler Peak on the Bull-of-the-Woods Mountain Trail. Pick up a map at Taos Mountain Outfitters (114 South Plaza, Taos; 575-758-9292). No matter what hike you do, get an early start to avoid afternoon storms. You ideally want to be on the summit before noon. Dog-friendly!