Current NPS alerts (2)
Backcountry route open to vehicles May 15 - November 15
Valles Caldera's backcountry road system opens to vehicles on Friday, May 15, 2026. Forty vehicles passes will be issued per day through November 15, when the route closes for the 2026 season. Passes may be reserved up to 3 months in advance at Recreation.gov. Any remaining daily passes will be available on a first come, first served basis in the Volcano Discovery Center.
Trail closure for pipeline restoration project
The VC09/South Valle Toledo/Posos Trail from the Valle Toledo parking area to the eastern park boundary is closed for restoration. The NPS is working on a trail reroute and will provide details as soon as possible.
Weather alerts (National Weather Service)
Special Weather Statement
Special Weather Statement issued October 24 at 8:12PM MDT by NWS Albuquerque NM
Flood Watch
Flood Watch issued October 24 at 1:29PM MDT until October 25 at 6:00AM MDT by NWS Albuquerque NM
About this site
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.
- Type
- National Preserve
- State
- New Mexico
- Address
- 39201 New Mexico Highway 4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025