Valles Caldera National Preserve Backcountry Vehicle Timed Entry

Valles Caldera National Preserve

About 1.2 million years ago, a spectacular volcanic eruption created the 13-mile-wide circular depression now known as Valles Caldera. The park is home to vast mountain meadows, forested lava domes, abundant wildlife, and meandering streams. Human history stretches back more than 11,000 years from when ancestral native peoples hunted wildlife and mined obsidian, and more recently ranchers raised sheep and cattle.

Immerse yourself in the heart of the caldera by taking a drive into the backcountry. You will find places for solitude, hear the running waters of the caldera’s streams, touch rocks formed millions of years ago, hike across meadows and through forests, or catch fish.

To travel the 18 miles of backcountry roads by vehicle, a Valles Caldera Backcountry Vehicle Pass is required. The daily limit of backcountry vehicles provides a truly personal experience while protecting natural processes.

Need to Know

Booking Windows

Passes will be released for reservation on the first of each month in two sets of monthly batches:

In addition, we have added 5 first-come, first-served passes for each day. These will be available at the Entrance Station the day of, in addition to any of th 35 reservable passes that haven't been reserved by that day.

Changes and Cancellations

$2 non-refundable reservation fee

Contact Information

Mailing Address

39201 NEW MEXICO STATE ROUTE 4 Jemez Springs NM 87025

Phone Number

505-670-1612

Available Tickets

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