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Valles Caldera National Preserve
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
3 reviews for Valles Caldera National Preserve
My review is regarding the Valle Grande or Caldera itself, not the administrative office.
It's an incredible scenic drive west of Los Alamos. I make it a point to see it again every time I return to New Mexico. Since the land has been "opened up" somewhat, I'd like to take the time in the future to do some sort of service or other outdoor activitity there.
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This is one of the best day trips we made while living in Albuquerque. It's located on a preserve and is secluded with low traffic - lots of solitude. I was fortunate enough to do some fly fishing in the preserve. I participated in the Preserves lottery system which limits the number of people fishing at any given time. I was lucky enough to be picked. They drive you in and drop you off along the Jemez Creek. The appeal here is that you are able to fish a stretch of creek all to yourself that is loaded with Brown Trout. Fishing is a bit tough as the fish are easily spooked and stealth is required along with pin point casts. The area is just beautiful and is one of those places that you hope is continuously protected.
CALDERA: A collapsed volcanic crater.
This 89,000 acre preserve is not your usual park. Located high in the Jemez Mountains, it still is a place of solitude and peace. A place that you won't find hoards of tourists. A place you will find wildlife.
We used to come to this caldera area in the summer to hike some of the nearby trails, gather wild strawberries and soak up the fresh mountain air, warm summer breezes and lucious vistas. We'd meet friends here. They'd come up from one side - Albuquerque; we'd come up from the other side - Santa Fe. We'd both bring picnics to share of beautiful breads, cheeses & meats, fruits and chocolates and wine. Lemonade for the kiddies. It was always a day of visiting and laughing and memories.
In the winter we came back to the same trails - but this time with our cross-country skis.This time we came to see the winter wildlife and to get our exercise.This time our "picnics" were Mexican hot chocolate and peanut butter & jelly sandwiches.This time we skied across the top of four foot bushes and fences, being careful not to catch the tip of a ski on the top wires, barely visible. This time the caldera was a gift from the ski gods. A place to ski without lifts and lines; without expensive gear.This time the skies were a deep rich blue, the sun was warm at midday and the air was bitting and cold. This time we closed the circle of seasons in the caldera.
Those times have passed, kids are grown, friends & family have scattered to both big pond coasts, but the memories of hiking and skiing in the caldera remain. Memories of mountains and forests, friends and family, wine and cheese, wildlife and meadows, strawberries and snow will always remain a part of our lives.
Picnics in the caldera - summer or winter - does life get any better?
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