Frequently Asked Questions
Skiing and Snowshoeing
When will the Preserve be open for skiing and snow shoe activities?
Do I need a reservation?
Where do I go to participate?
Do I need a four wheel drive?
Are season passes available?
What areas of the Preserve will be open for these activities?
Are there any “after dark” skiing opportunities?
Are there any free days offered?
Do you have rental equipment available?
Will there be groomed trails?
What should I bring?
Where do I park and how are the roads?
How do I find out about snow conditions?
May I stay overnight on the Preserve?
May I bring my dog?
I still have questions. What should I do?
Will my car be safe?
Are snow mobiles allowed on the Preserve?
Q: When will the Preserve be open for skiing and snow shoe activities?
A: Winter activities on the Valles Caldera National Preserve will begin on December 26, 2009, weather permitting, and, if the snow stays, will end on March 21, 2010. Follow us on Twitter for current conditions. Skiing and snowshoeing activities in the Valle Grande will be available daily during the holiday season of December 26th thru January 3rd from 9 AM to 4 PM. After January 3rd, the Preserve will only be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 AM to 4 PM. In addition, we will be open for public appreciation days on Martin Luther King, Jr. day (January 18) and on Washington’s birthday (February 15). This season we have three night events planned. Moon light skiing will allow the visitor a chance to experience the magic of the Preserve after the sun goes down.
A: Reservations are not required. You are welcome to show up spontaneously on any date that we are open and ski or snowshoe anytime between 9am and 4pm.
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Q: Where do I go to participate?
A: The main gate to the Preserve will be open during business hours and is located at mile marker 39.2 along State Highway 4, 18 miles west of Los Alamos or 20 miles east of Jemez Springs. Proceed through the main gate and down the snow packed road approximately 2 miles to the Valle Grande staging area.
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Q: Do I need a four wheel drive?
A: We strongly recommend either four wheel drive or chains. Much of our road is steep, one lane and north facing. We will plow roads and maintain as well as possible but winds and blowing snow may cause drifting and icy conditions. Please proceed slowly and cautiously at your own risk. Uphill traffic has the right of way.
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Q: Are season passes available?
A: Not yet, but we are working on providing this opportunity in the near future.
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Q: What areas of the Preserve will be open for these activities?
A: This season we are opening over 11,000 acres for winter activities including over 11 miles of groomed trails.
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Q: Are there any “after dark” skiing opportunities?
A: Yes, this year we will offer three moonlight skiing and snowshoeing events if snow conditions permit. The dates for these events are December 31st, January 30th, and February 27th, weather permitting. The moonlit events begin at 6 PM, and you must be back at the staging area by 10 PM. Reservations are not required and permits may be purchased at the Valle Grande staging area. These are nights on or close to the full moon and allow for well-illuminated night skiing.
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Q: Are there any free days offered?
A: Yes. The Coyote Call Trail and surrounding area on the south side of the State Highway 4 are open for skiing and snowshoeing, free of charge, everyday during daylight hours. Please assist us in providing this free area by observing rules and posted signs, signing in/out on the trailhead register, and obtaining permits for any activities conducted on the north side of State Road 4.
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Q: Do you have rental equipment available?
A: No. Please check local directories for a complete list of all providers.
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Q: Will there be groomed trails?
A: Yes, we will groom many trails that lead to our more popular destinations. You are welcome to strike out on your own or stay on the groomed trails. Winds may cause snow drifting at times. We will do our best to groom trails in between snow storms but weather will determine how well and how many of our trails are groomed.
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A: Come prepared for unpredictable winter weather including white-outs. Wear layered clothing. Bring sunscreen, hats, gloves, and plenty of food and water for the amount of energy you will be exerting. Click here for our checklist.
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Q: Where do I park and how are the roads?
A: The main gate to the Preserve will be open during business hours and is located at mile marker 39.2 along State Highway 4, 18 miles west of Los Alamos or 20 miles East of Jemez Springs. Proceed through the main gate and down the snow packed road approximately 2 miles to the Valle Grande staging area. You will be directed on where to park.
The Valle Grande staging area is located approximately two mile inside the Preserve along a north facing, often snow packed and icy unpaved road. We will plow road when weather permits but four wheel drive and/or chains are recommended and may at times be required. On windy days drifting snow can make the road sometimes impassable, even if it has recently been plowed.
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Q: How do I find out about snow conditions?
A: Check out the Snow Report or call us at 505 661-3333.
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Q: May I stay overnight on the Preserve?
A: No, there are no overnight accommodations on the Preserve this winter. We are working to upgrade our infrastructure and hope to include overnight accommodations in 2011 winter season.
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A: No, due to wildlife concerns, no pets are permitted on the Preserve. Please do not plan to leave your pet in a vehicle in the parking lot. Registered assistance dogs are permitted.
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Q:I still have questions. What should I do?
A: You may send your questions by e-mail to recreation@vallescaldera.gov or call us toll free at 1-866-382-5537.
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A: The Preserve cannot be held responsible for your vehicle or contents and you must assume all risk when leaving it in our parking area.
You may park your vehicle at the Valle Grande staging area. Staff will be in the vicinity during business hours and the gates will be locked after hours. Cars should be left locked.
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Q: Are snow mobiles allowed on the Preserve?
A: The only snow mobiles allowed on the preserve are those used for the administrative duties required to run our programs and to groom trails. No recreational snow mobiles are allowed at this time.
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