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.
Photo: NPS Photo / NPS
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.
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Driving times from Valles Caldera National Preserve, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Entrance fees
Entrance - Private Vehicle
$25.00The entrance fee for a private vehicle covers seven consecutive days of entrance to Valles Caldera National Preserve.
Entrance - Motorcycle
$20.00Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.
Entrance - Per Person
$15.00The per-person entrance fee covers seven consecutive days of entrance to Valles Caldera National Preserve.
Hours
Valle Grande Main Entrance
- Mon
- 9:00AM - 5:00PM
- Tue
- 9:00AM - 5:00PM
- Wed
- 9:00AM - 5:00PM
- Thu
- 9:00AM - 5:00PM
- Fri
- 9:00AM - 5:00PM
- Sat
- 9:00AM - 5:00PM
- Sun
- 9:00AM - 5:00PM
Activities
Getting there
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.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to enter Valles Caldera National Preserve?
- Entrance to Valles Caldera National Preserve starts at $15. See the fees section above for each pass and vehicle type.
- What is there to do at Valles Caldera National Preserve?
- Popular activities include Astronomy, Backcountry Hiking, Biking, Birdwatching, Bookstore and Park Store, Cross-Country Skiing.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Valles Caldera National Preserve?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach Manhattan Project National Historical Park (51 min), Bandelier National Monument (1 h 5 min), Pecos National Historical Park (2 h 6 min), Petroglyph National Monument (2 h 25 min), Fort Union National Monument (3 h 5 min), Chaco Culture National Historical Park (3 h 25 min).