Hike the Cerro Seco Loop

A view of Redondo Peak from the Cerro Seco Loop.

NPS/H. O\'Keeffe

This strenuous, 11.2-mile (18 km) trail ascends a narrow drainage before circling around Cerro Seco lava dome, offering good views of Valle Seco and the northern rim of the caldera, with the best views saved for last. If you keep an eye out you might even spot pikas. Best hiked counterclockwise.

Elevation: 8,394 - 9,706 feet

Details

Duration

5-7 Hours

Activity

Backcountry Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

Yes

As of January 1, 2025, a park entrance fee is required to enter Valles Caldera National Preserve.

Location

Cerro Seco Trailhead

The trailhead is a locked cable gate marked VC08 on the south side of the road, about 4.2 miles west of the T-junction. Park in the small dirt pull-out adjacent to the trailhead along the road. Backcountry vehicle pass required.

Reservations

Yes

Vehicular access to Valles Caldera's backcountry route is limited to 40 public vehicles per day. Passes can be reserved on Recreation.gov up to 3 months in advance.

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

The backcountry is closed to vehicular traffic from November 15 - May 14.

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

This unpaved, natural surface trail has steep grades. Service animals permitted.