Valles Caldera National Preserve
NM
Park Alerts (2)
About Valles Caldera National Preserve
About 1.2 million years ago, a spectacular volcanic eruption created a 14-mile-wide circular depression in the earth now known as Valles Caldera. The preserve is known for its huge mountain meadows, abundant wildlife, and meandering streams.
The area also preserves the homeland of ancestral native peoples and embraces a rich ranching history.
Things To Do
Showing 6 of 20
Bike the Valle Grande Loop
This bike route loops around Valle Grande, providing spectacular views along the entire route.
Take a Scenic Drive through Valle Grande
The Valles Caldera Entrance Road is a scenic, four-mile-long gravel road through the heart of Valle Grande. This drive offers outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities, volcanic vistas, and several places to get out and explore on foot.
Hike the Valle Grande Exploration Trail
The Valle Grande Exploration Trail (formerly known as the Pond Trail) is a gentle, 0.8-mile round-trip hike to a pond in the heart of Valle Grande. It takes approximately 1 hour to complete. Pets are not permitted.
Hike the South Valle Grande Trail
The South Valle Grande Trail is a 2-mile round-trip hike that descends to the edge of Valle Grande, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The hike takes 1-2 hours. Leashed pets are permitted.
Hike the South Mountain Trail
The South Mountain Trail is an 8.2-mile round-trip hike that climbs to the summit of South Mountain. The hike takes 4-5 hours to complete. Pets are not permitted.
Hike the Rabbit Ridge Trail
The Rabbit Ridge Trail is a 2.4-mile round-trip hike that climbs to the south rim of Valles Caldera. It takes 1-2 hours to complete. Pets are not permitted.
Available Activities
Weather
Each season offers a different experience: lush springs, moderate summers, golden falls, and snowy winters. Average temperatures are 22°F (-6 C) in January and 60°F (16 C) in July. Temperature extremes range from a high of 84°F (29 C) in summer to -30°F (-34C) in winter.
Precipitation is heavier during summer monsoon rains (thunderstorms) in July and August and winter snowstorms in December through March. Higher elevation lends to much cooler temperatures than nearby Albuquerque.
Getting There
From Jemez Springs, NM: Follow NM-4 north. The Preserve is about 22 miles from Jemez Springs. Look for the Main Gate and signs at Mile Marker 39.
2. From Los Alamos, NM: Take Trinity Drive to Diamond. Take a left on Diamond, then a right on West Jemez Road to the intersection with NM-4.
Take a right [away from Bandelier National Monument], following the highway up and into the Jemez Mountains. The Preserve is 18 miles up NM-4 from Los Alamos. Look for the Main Gate and signs at Mile Marker 39.
2.
Plan Your Visit
Let Roamze help you plan the perfect trip to Valles Caldera National Preserve with AI-powered itineraries.
Start PlanningHours
Valle Grande Main Entrance
Valle Grande Main Entrance is located at mile marker 39.2 along New Mexico Highway 4.
Entrance Fees
Entrance - Private Vehicle
The entrance fee for a private vehicle covers seven consecutive days of entrance to Valles Caldera National Preserve.
Entrance - Motorcycle
Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.
Entrance - Per Person
The per-person entrance fee covers seven consecutive days of entrance to Valles Caldera National Preserve.
