News Release

Valles Caldera National Preserve To Restrict Vehicle Access

Date: March 5, 2019
Contact: Kimberly DeVall, 505-412-0826

JEMEZ SPRINGS, NM – Effective immediately, Valles Caldera National Preserve will begin restricting vehicle access along the preserve’s main entrance road. Due to warming temperatures, melting snow is impacting road conditions and high water levels on the East Fork Jemez River are threatening to overtop the road. Visitors may still access the preserve on-foot via the Coyote Call and Valle Grande trailheads, and through access points at pull-outs along NM-4.

Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and mountain biking are permitted. Park rangers will be stationed at the preserve main entrance to answer questions and provide information.
Visitors are advised to use extreme caution while recreating in lower portions of the Valle Grande as snow continues to melt forming deep ponds and hidden sinks. While recreational access is still encouraged, there will be no public restroom facilities and visitors are advised to plan accordingly. 

Vehicle access will resume when prolonged conditions allow, and notifications will be posted on the preserve’s website, www.nps.gov/vall, on Twitter @VallesCaldera, on Facebook www.facebook.com/VallesCaldera/ and on the school closures section of KRQE, KOAT, and KOB news websites. For more information, contact Valles Caldera National Preserve at [phone] or e-mail us.