Hike the Rabbit Mountain Loop

Valle Grande from the Rabbit Mountain Loop.

NPS/Lauren Ray

The Rabbit Mountain Loop (2.9 miles, 4.7 km round-trip) contours along the southern rim of the caldera, offering great views of Valle Grande and Redondo Peak. The trail passes through shady aspen groves, open meadows, and parts of the Las Conchas wildfire burn scar. Burned areas with standing dead trees can be hazardous in high winds. The east end of the loop connects to the Alamo Boundary Trail at Bandelier National Monument, where pets are prohibited.

Elevation: 8,714 - 8,950 feet

Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

Activity

Front-Country Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes

Activity Fee

Yes

Park entrance fee is required to enter Valles Caldera National Preserve.

Location

Rabbit Mountain Loop

The Rabbit Mountain Trailhead is near mile marker 41 on the south side of NM-4. There is a paved pull-out adjacent to the trailhead or on the north side of NM-4 opposite the trailhead. Backcountry pass not required. Parking is not suitable for oversized vehicles. 

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

This is one of the few hiking trails that is accessible year-round at Valles Caldera National Preserve.

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

This trail follows old logging routes and traverses steep grades.

Rabbit Mountain Loop in yellow and the Rabbit Ridge Trail in green.

NPS/Monte White and Lauren Ray