N Taos Ski Basin 
From the Taos Plaza go north on US64 to the junction with NM150 to the Taos Ski Valley (4.2 miles). The canyon to the Ski Valley contains three campgrounds (the first at 7.8 miles from the junction of NM150 and US64). There are a number of marked trails that go up the canyon side as well as a number of unpaved pullouts. The canyon contains cottonwoods along the river, Ponderosa Pine changing to mixed conifer as you go up in altitude. An additional 7.1 miles brings you to the town of Taos Ski Valley. The vegetation here is fir/spruce/aspen/willows.

If you are birding in the spring, summer, or fall, continue until you reach Sutton Street on your right. Park and cross the river on the bridge that leads to the business area (shops, restaurants, ski center). Once across the river, follow the dirt (gravel) road on the left that follows the stream. The willows and firs in this area contain Swainson's Thrush, MacGillivray's, Wilson's, and Orange Crowned Warblers, Lincoln's Sparrow, Cordilleran Flycatcher, Warbling Vireo, and Black-headed Grosbeak. Continue along the stream, crossing back and returning to your starting point. Across Sutton Street, is a board walk that goes downstream. This contains the same species seen the other direction, as well as a multitude of wildflowers.

Continuing up the mountains on Twining Road for 1.2 miles, there is a small pond on your right (called Beaver Pond). Examine the stream along this area for Dipper (actually they can occur anywhere along the stream at any season). Another 0.1 mile brings you to the junction with Zap's Road on the left. Take Zap's Road for another mile to the parking area for William's Lake Trailhead. The trailhead is at roughly 10,000 feet and the hike to William's Lake is 1.5 miles each way with it uphill on the way in (it is not difficult for someone used to the altitude). For those who prefer not to take this hike, driving an addition 0.1 mile brings you to Bavaria Lodge (the William's Lake trail runs through it), were there is ample opportunity to view the montane birds, especially birds such as Gray Jay.

For hardy individuals, the Bull of the Woods trail leaves the Coyote parking area near the Taos Ski Valley business district. The hike is longer, much more strenuous, and contains the same birds as the William's Lake hike.

If you are here in winter, the main birds of interest are the Rosy Finches. These can be found at "The Kandahar", condominiums on the canyon side on the right as you enter town. You may have to park a long way from the area, but shuttle busses will take you to the downtown. From there you can walk to the Kandahar office where to finches are fed. Bring a bag of seed with you to replenish their supply.