Wildlife Viewing in the Caldera

Mule deer are abundant all across the caldera.

NPS Photo

Valles Caldera is home to the second largest elk population in New Mexico. Other residents include mule deer, Gunnison prairie dogs, coyotes, badgers, black bears, Eastern mountain bluebirds, and golden eagles. 

Habitat preferences and seasonal cycles of movement determine, in a general sense, where a particular animal may be at a particular time. Early morning and evening hours are when animals tend to be feeding and thus are more easily seen. But remember that the numbers and variety of animals you see are largely a matter of luck and coincidence.

Wild animals, especially females with young, are unpredictable and dangerous. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife. Please use roadside pullouts when viewing wildlife. Use binoculars or telephoto lenses for safe viewing and to avoid disturbing wildlife. By being sensitive to its needs, you will see more of an animal's natural behavior and activity. If you cause an animal to move, you are too close! It is illegal to willfully remain near or approach wildlife, including birds, within ANY distance that disturbs or displaces the animal.

Details

Activity

Wildlife Watching

Valles Caldera provides excellent habitat for a wide variety of animals, and there are plenty of opportunities for viewing wildlife like elk, bears, prairie dogs, coyotes, and birds.

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Leashed pets are allowed on the Cerro La Jara Loop, Rabbit Mountain Loop, South Valle Grande Trail, and Cabin District Trail. Pets are not allowed in the park's backcountry, even if they remain inside the vehicle.

Activity Fee

Yes

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

Reservations

No

If you wish to watch wildlife from your car in Valles Caldera's backcountry, you will need a backcountry vehicle pass. 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

Year Round

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Pedestrian access to Valles Caldera National Preserve is permitted from dawn to dusk every day of the year. Roadside pull offs along NM State Route 4 are open 24/7 for wildlife viewing. Check our Operating Hours & Seasons webpage for main gate hours.

Accessibility Information

The roads and trails in the preserve are not wheelchair accessible. The pullouts along NM 4 are paved.