Hike the Cerro del Medio Loop

Views along the Cerro Del Medio Loop

NPS/M. Wilder

The Cerro Del Medio Loop is 13.8 miles (22.2 km) round-trip and combines 4 different trails within Valles Caldera: Obsidian Valley Trail, Posos Trail, Rincon Trail, and East Valle Grande Trail. Although this route is long, it is very nearly flat and may be hiked in either direction. If hiking the loop clockwise, begin by walking up the backcountry road and taking Obsidian Valley Trail at the next cable gate on the right. Hike up Obsidian Valley, past some of the largest specimens of obsidian you’ll likely ever see, and then stay right to circle Cerro del Medio lava dome via the Posos Trail. After passing through Valle de los Posos, keep right and take the Rincon Trail along the eastern edge of Cerro del Medio. You'll pass through Rincon de los Soldados and then take a right onto the East Valle Grande Trail to finish the loop with sweeping views of Valle Grande. Excellent opportunities for elk sightings. All resources within Valles Caldera National Preserve are federally protected. Collection is strictly prohibited and enforced. Extensive deadfall may be encountered in this area.

Elevation: 8,563 - 9,016 feet

Details

Duration

7-8 Hours

Activity

Backcountry Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

Yes

As of January 1, 2025, a park entrance fee is required to enter Valles Caldera National Preserve.

Location

Cerro Del Medio Trailhead

The trailhead is a locked cable gate marked VC05 on the east side of the road, about 6.5 miles from the Entrance Station. Park in the small dirt pull-out adjacent to the trailhead along the road. Backcountry vehicle pass required.

Reservations

Yes

Vehicular access to Valles Caldera's backcountry route is limited to 40 public vehicles per day. Passes can be reserved on Recreation.gov up to 3 months in advance.

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

The backcountry is closed to vehicular traffic from November 15 - May 14.

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

This unpaved, gravel road has less than 500 feet of elevation gain from start to finish. It follows an old road trace. Service animals permitted.