Valles Caldera National Preserve

Visit the Valles Caldera National Preserve at a pleasant speed — from a horse-drawn sleigh. Matched draft horses take you around La Jara for a 360 degree view of the Valle Grande. From aboard the 60-minute ride, you’ll experience a winter wonderland with possible visions of hunting birds of prey (including bald eagles along the East Fork of the Jemez River), jumping coyotes, and walking herds of elk. A guide will share the interesting history and lore of the “old Baca Ranch,” offering you insight into its past and its future.

Sleigh rides will begin as soon as snow coverage is adequate. Reservations will be accepted for winter sleigh rides in November. Rides will begin sometime in December, weather permitting.

Horse-drawn tours are a great alternative for those who are seeking a winter, outdoor experience of a shorter duration and with less exertion than skiing.

With the deeper snows of winter, the horses will be hitched to a large horse-drawn sleigh for an experience you’ll long savor. (Note: When snow is not sufficient, a wagon will be used instead of the sleigh.)

Horse-drawn tours are a great alternative for those who are seeking an outdoor experience of a shorter duration and with less exertion than hiking or skiing.

Fees:

Adults $30
Seniors 62-and-over $24
Children 15-and-under $15
Children $ Free (Age 5-and-under)

Directions: Enter the main gate of the Valles Caldera National Preserve on State Highway 4, near mile marker 39. Proceed down the dirt road approximately 2 miles to the Valle Grande staging area. You will board your sleigh from here. Enjoy your ride!

Our sleigh comfortably holds 12 adults. Special arrangements may be made for large groups or additional dates or times by contacting us via email with your request including dates, numbers of participants, and expectations.

Due to concerns for wildlife, no pets, other than assistance dogs, will be permitted on the Preserve.

I look back on our wagon ride as one of the most lovely outdoor experiences I’ve ever had. It was a unique way to travel through a gorgeous and varied landscape and allowed us to savor it at an unhurried pace.

Carol Miller
Los Angeles, CA

Overview

I look back on our wagon ride as one of the most lovely outdoor experiences I’ve ever had. It was a unique way to travel through a gorgeous and varied landscape and allowed us to savor it at an unhurried pace. Carol Miller Los Angeles, CA

I look back on our wagon ride as one of the most lovely outdoor experiences I’ve ever had. It was a unique way to travel through a gorgeous and varied landscape and allowed us to savor it at an unhurried pace.

Carol Miller
Los Angeles, CA