News Release

Valles Caldera to Open Valle Grande District Friday, June 3

Stage 3 Fire Closure Map - 6-3-2022

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News Release Date: June 1, 2022

Contact: Dave Krueger, 505-412-0826

Jemez Springs, NM – On Friday, June 3, 2022, with the increase in containment of the Cerro Pelado Fire, Valles Caldera National Preserve will reopen portions of the Valle Grande District.

Starting in late April, the park closed due to the Cerro Pelado Fire and the extreme fire danger in the region. With the extreme fire danger persisting, Valles Caldera has entered into Stage III fire closure of the park’s backcountry, while maintaining opportunities for visitors to experience and recreate in the park’s front country.

Visitor opportunities available in the Valle Grande District include hiking along the La Jara and Valle Grande Pond trails; hiking, biking, and horseback-riding along the perimeter of the Valle Grande; exploration of the Baca Ranch Cabin District and History Grove; fishing on the East Fork Jemez River and Jaramillo Creek within the Valle Grande; ranger programs within the Baca Ranch Cabin District (starting June 11); and viewpoints along NM Route 4

The main vehicle entrance and visitor services will be open from 9 am to 5 pm daily starting June 3. Ranger programs will begin on Saturday, June 11, which include the first night sky program of the season (registration required). For additional information about ranger programs, visit nps.gov/vall/planyourvisit/ranger-led-activities.htm.

Vehicle travel into the park is limited to the first two miles to the Entrance Station for all vehicles, and then an additional two miles to the Baca Ranch Cabin District for up to 12 vehicles at a time. Vehicles will be allowed to park only in designated parking areas and open pullouts. All other areas of the park remain closed until further notice.

For up-to-date information on the status of the park, visit nps.gov/vall/planyourvisit/conditions.htm.

—nps.gov—

Valles Caldera National Preserve | About 1.25 million years ago, a spectacular volcanic eruption created the 13-mile wide circular depression 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 a rich ranching history. Visit us at nps.gov/vall.

National Park Service | More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America's 420+ national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Visit us at nps.gov.



Last updated: June 3, 2022

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Mailing Address:

090 Villa Louis Martin Dr.
Jemez Springs, NM 87025

Phone:

505-670-1612
Ranger Station (for general park information)

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