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National Preserve

Valles Caldera National Preserve

InformationJun 26, 2026

Fire restrictions: Stage II

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InformationMay 15, 2026

Backcountry route open to vehicles May 15 - November 15

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Scattered clouds over landscape view of winding river and brown grasslands

The views of Valles Caldera are some of nature's best

Photo: NPS Photo

About

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.

Activities

AstronomyStargazingBikingMountain BikingRoad BikingFishingFreshwater FishingFly FishingFoodPicnickingGuided ToursSelf-Guided Tours - WalkingSelf-Guided Tours - AutoHiking
Backcountry Hiking
Front-Country Hiking
Off-Trail Permitted Hiking
Horse Trekking
Horseback Riding
Hunting and Gathering
Hunting
Junior Ranger Program
Skiing
Cross-Country Skiing
Snowshoeing
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store
Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Directions

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.

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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.

News

National Park Service’s Pueblo Parks Group Implements Stage II Fire Restrictions
Jun 25, 2026

National Park Service’s Pueblo Parks Group Implements Stage II Fire Restrictions

The Pueblo Parks Group will implement Stage II fire restrictions on June 25, 2026, due to heightened wildfire danger across Bandelier, Fort Union, Pecos, and Valles Caldera. These restrictions prohibit open flames, smoking outside enclosed spaces, off‑road engine use, and explosives, with additional limits on vehicle operations to reduce fire risk.

Entrance Fees

Entrance - Private Vehicle$25.00
Entrance - Motorcycle$20.00
Entrance - Per Person$15.00