Snowpack
February 17, 2023: Between Monday and Wednesday this week, 2 to 3 feet of fresh snow accumulated at Valles Caldera. Average snow depth in Valle Grande is around 4 feet, with higher amounts present in the Cabin District. The entrance road and parking lots are plowed but snow-packed and may be slippery. 4WD recommended. Waterways are frozen. Park visitors have established cross-country ski tracks around La Jara and up toward South Mountain, from the Entrance Station to the Valle Grande Pond, and from the Entrance Station to the Cabin District.
Road Conditions
Conditions along NM-4 through the Jemez Mountains can be unpredictable in the winter. Snow, ice, and drifts can create hazardous driving conditions to and from Valles Caldera. For information about road conditions along your route, check out: NMRoads - The official road advisory system for the State of New Mexico. Valles Caldera National Preserve works hard to maintain passable driving conditions from the park entrance at NM-4 to the Cabin District throughout the winter. Following winter weather events, temporary closures and delays are to be expected to allow adequate time for crews to clear roads, parking lots, and pathways for visitor safety. Before you visit, always refer to the Alerts at the top of this webpage for up-to-date information about winter weather closures and delays.