The visitor center at Valles Caldera National Preserve is open from 9 AM to 4:30 PM every day of the year.
The entrance fee at Valles Caldera National Preserve is $25 per vehicle, $15 per person, and $20 per motorcycle, covering seven consecutive days. An annual pass is $45, and America the Beautiful passes are also accepted. Children under 16 enter free.
From Los Alamos, take Trinity Drive to West Jemez Road, then NM-4 north into the Jemez Mountains. Look for the Main Gate at Mile Marker 39.2, where vast meadows and ancient landscapes await.
Park in designated areas on bare ground, not on grass. No overnight parking. Limited cell reception. No specific RV size restrictions mentioned, but parking is available for cars, RVs, and motorcycles. $2 reservation fee, no additional parking fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Valles Caldera National Preserve, situated in the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico, is a breathtaking testament to the region’s volcanic and cultural heritage. This 13.7-mile-wide caldera, formed by a massive eruption 1.2 million years ago, is a tapestry of vast mountain meadows, meandering streams, and dense forests of old-growth Ponderosa pines.
The preserve is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including elk, coyotes, black bears, and golden eagles, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The landscape is dotted with hot springs, fumaroles, and volcanic domes, with Redondo Peak, an 11,254-foot resurgent lava dome, standing as a sentinel within the caldera.
Visitors can explore the preserve through various hiking trails, including those that lead to the expansive Valle Grande, the largest and most accessible of the caldera’s grass valleys. In the winter, the preserve transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. During warmer months, activities range from horseback riding and fishing to scenic drives and mountain biking.
The area is steeped in history, with remnants of pre-agricultural hunter-gatherer heritage and the legacy of early Spanish and Mexican settlements. For those interested in local culture, nearby towns like Jemez Springs offer artisan shops and historic sites to explore.
In the summer, the preserve hosts ranger-led activities and educational programs, while the winter brings the tranquility of snow-covered landscapes. For amenities, visitors can stop by the Valle Grande Bookstore at the Entrance Station, managed by Los Amigos de Valles Caldera, for snacks, drinks, and local souvenirs. This preserve is not just a natural wonder but a living, breathing entity that invites travelers to immerse themselves in its unique beauty and rich cultural tapestry.
- Area (mi²)
- 140
- Annual visitors
- 76 000
- Established year
- 2000
Top 3 Facts about Valles Caldera National Preserve
The highest point within the caldera is Redondo Peak, a resurgent lava dome that stands at 3,430 meters, surrounded by moat-like flows of solidified rhyolitic lavas.
In this high-elevation sanctuary, over 2,500 elk roam amidst mixed-conifer forests and rich soils. Gunnison’s prairie dogs thrive, while coyotes and black bears inhabit the landscape. Mountain lions prowl the Jemez Mountains, and pikas reside in the highest elevations. A diverse array of migratory birds, including mountain bluebirds, bald eagles, and red-tailed hawks, fill the skies. The symphony of birdsong and chorusing frogs complements the vibrant flora, making each visit a unique and enriching experience.
Surrounded by the Jemez Mountains, this volcanic caldera boasts a 13-mile-wide circular depression with walls rising over 2,000 feet above its floor. Here, 40 miles of pristine trout streams flow through mountain meadows, while 66,118 acres of conifer forest provide a habitat for the state’s largest herd of 8,000 elk. The area’s unique geology, formed by a 1.5 million-year-old supervolcano eruption, creates a dramatic landscape of contrasts, from the cool shade of the forests to the open expanses of grasslands.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in fall to explore the preserve’s rugged terrain. Arrive early for backcountry permits. Bring layers, water, and bug repellent. Limited amenities, so pack meals and rest often. Enjoy the fall colors and potential elk bugling season. Park at designated areas and visit the visitor center first.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable temperatures, waterproof gear for summer monsoons, and sturdy boots for trails. Bring warm clothing for winter visits and sun protection for spring and fall. Check the forecast to adjust your gear accordingly.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a 100-yard distance from wildlife, using binoculars or spotting scopes to avoid disturbance. Be most alert at dawn and dusk when creatures are most active. Respect crepuscular habits and keep bear spray handy.【NAT GEO】
Stay Informed
Be aware of falling trees, unstable slopes, and plague-carrying fleas. Watch for thunderstorms and seek shelter if needed. Travel in groups, carry bear spray, and stay informed about weather and fire restrictions. For emergencies, call park authorities at 888-882-9383. Exercise caution on trails and near water.
Seasons
In spring, from April to June, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F, experience lush montane grasslands, meandering streams, and abundant wildlife. Witness the Jemez Mountain Trail Runs in May, and enjoy mild weather ideal for hiking and exploration. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Experience summer’s warm days (70s-80s°F) and mild nights in a volcanic landscape. Join the Valles Caldera BioBlitz in April or the star-watching event in July, and enjoy ranger-led hikes, fly-fishing workshops, and stargazing tours amidst blooming wildflowers and clear skies. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Experience the Jemez Mountains in autumn, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F. Enjoy the Fall Fiesta, featuring tribal artisans and ranger-guided hikes, amidst golden aspen and elk bugling. October’s crisp mornings and starry nights make it an ideal time to visit.
Winter brings serene landscapes, with December temperatures ranging from 20°F to 44°F. Snow-packed roads and icy conditions can be treacherous, but the untouched beauty and potential for deep snow make it a unique, adventurous visit for the bold.