About 1.2 million years ago, a spectacular volcanic eruption created a 14-mile-wide circular depression in the earth now known as Valles Caldera. The preserve is known for its huge mountain meadows, abundant wildlife, and meandering streams. The area also preserves the homeland of ancestral native peoples and embraces
Yes — your pass gets you in.
Your pass covers the $25 park entrance fee.
- Fee type Entrance fee — The standard per-vehicle park entrance fee. Entrance - Private Vehicle: $25Entrance - Motorcycle: $20Entrance - Per Person: $15
- HoursValle Grande Main Entrance is located at mile marker 39.2 along New Mexico Highway 4.
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact 505-670-1612 · vall_info@nps.gov
From Jemez Springs, NM: Follow NM-4 north. The Preserve is about 22 miles from Jemez Springs. Look for the Main Gate and signs at Mile Marker 39.2. From Los Alamos, NM: Take Trinity Drive to Diamond. Take a left on Diamond, then a right on West Jemez Road to the intersection with NM-4. Take a right
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Valles Caldera National Preserve — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Yes Does the America the Beautiful pass work at Valles Caldera National Preserve?
Yes — your pass covers the entrance fee here.
Yes Can you fish at Valles Caldera National Preserve?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Abrigo Trail, Alamo Canyon Trail, Backcountry Driving Route, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Valles Caldera National Preserve. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Depends What are the hours?
Valle Grande Main Entrance is located at mile marker 39.2 along New Mexico Highway 4.
Nearby sites
Los Alamos National Laboratory National Park Service Manhattan Project National Historical Park
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
NPS Photo/Sally King National Park Service Bandelier National Monument
ConfirmedYour pass covers the $25 park entrance fee.
