Overview
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.
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.
Entrance Fees
The entrance fee for a private vehicle covers seven consecutive days of entrance to Valles Caldera National Preserve.
Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.
The per-person entrance fee covers seven consecutive days of entrance to Valles Caldera National Preserve.
Gallery
Photos of Valles Caldera National Preserve.
5 images
Things to do
Discover Valles Caldera National Preserve.
Bike the Alamo Canyon to Valle Seco Lasso
4-6 HoursThe Alamo Canyon to Valle Seco Lasso is a 13.5-mile bike route through the western portion of Valles Caldera National Preserve. This ride features 1,800 feet of elevation gain and a speedy final descent through the park's densest concentration of geothermal features.
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Bike the Redondo Foothills Loop
2-3 HoursThe Redondo Foothills Loop is a moderately strenuous, 9.5-mile bike route beginning in the Cabin District. This ride features flowy descents, 771 feet of climbing, and great views of Valle Grande.
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Bike the Valle Grande Loop
3-5 HoursThis bike route loops around Valle Grande, providing spectacular views along the entire route.
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Cross-Country Skiing in Valles Caldera
Winter is a spectacular time to visit Valles Caldera National Preserve. The park has miles of groomed trails for the adventurous skier.
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Fish in Valle San Antonio
San Antonio Creek is famous throughout New Mexico for wild brown trout and beautiful scenery. Reserve your backcountry vehicle pass to fish this stream seasonally from May 15 - November 15.
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Fish San Antonio Creek
San Antonio Creek is famous throughout New Mexico for wild brown trout and beautiful scenery. Reserve your backcountry vehicle pass to fish this stream seasonally from May 15 - November 15.
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Fish the East Fork Headwaters
Hike or bike the Rincon Trail to the East Fork headwaters, where wild rainbow trout and browns predominate.
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Fish the East Fork in Hidden Valley
Hike the Jemez River Trail to Hidden Valley, where the Rio Grande chub, Rio Grande sucker, and longnose dace are the dominant fish species.
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Fish the East Fork Jemez River
A picturesque and meandering stream, wild rainbow trout and browns can be found in the headwaters of the East Fork of the Jemez River. Rio Grande suckers and Rio Grande chubs predominate elsewhere.
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