Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is the sleigh ride, and where does it go?
A: The horse—drawn ride is about 60 minutes long. Your ride may involve a shuttle by van of up to 30 minutes each way to the starting point of your ride so relax and plan on spending some extra time on the Preserve.
Q: Is this a motorized ride?
A: No, matching draft horses pull the wagon or sleigh.
Q: Will you substitute a wagon for a sleigh if there isn’t enough snow?
A: We will do our best to offer sleigh rides during winter months. If conditions are not conducive to sleigh rides either because of too much or not enough snow, it will be up to the Preserve staff to determine whether or not wagon rides are substituted or rides are cancelled. If the preserve decides to cancel a ride, refunds or rescheduling will be allowed. Otherwise, no refunds or changes are permitted.
Q: How many people ride in the sleigh?
A: The sleigh can accommodate 12 people. The wagon holds 16 adults.
Q:Are there restrooms?
A: Yes, we don't have permanent facilities as of yet, but a port a-potty is located at the starting point of your ride.
Q: Where can I buy food and snacks?
A: We don’t have any food service facilities at the preserve but you can stock up with picnic supplies and hot drinks in Los Alamos or at the convenience store at the Pueblo of Jemez. There are also restaurants along State Highway 4 in Jemez Springs and La Cueva as well as in downtown Los Alamos.
Q:I have a larger group — can you accommodate us?
A: We can make special arrangements for the use of a large sleigh or wagon. We can also help you plan a special group gathering that might incorporate the use of one of our heated facilities, and include a meal, for a special day on the preserve. Call our office at 505—661—3333 well in advance of your event to make such an inquiry. Such events are offered on a limited basis. We cannot accommodate all large groups but will work with you as best we can.
Q: Do rides get cancelled in case of bad weather?
A: Yes. Weather at this elevation can be very changeable, However, we cancel surprisingly few rides. We will post the most current information on cancellation of events on our weather line at 505—661—3333, extension 3. On days when weather may be an issue call this pre—recorded message before traveling to the preserve to get a status. Sometimes we do cancel at the last minute when a sudden snow squall blows in. When this happens, we will offer you a rain check or a refund.
Q: Can I get a refund if I can’t make it?
A: No. We cannot offer you a refund if you change your plans or unforeseen circumstances arise that make you unable to attend. We will offer refunds only in the case of our cancellation of an activity. Any fees you pay do stay with the Valles Caldera Trust and help support our management of the preserve.
Q: What is the elevation of the preserve?
A: Sleigh and wagon rides are conducted at about 8,750 feet.
Q: Any special advice on this activity?
A: Please try to arrive 10 minutes early as we cannot accommodate late arrivals. Allow two hours driving time from Albuquerque; 1 and ½ hours from Santa Fe. Be prepared for mountain roads, colder temperatures and a high altitude environment. It will be much colder at the preserve than in any surrounding community. Bring plenty of extra warm clothes, hats, mittens, warm boots and even a blanket in the winter and layered clothing in the summer as well.