​Snowshoeing in Valles Caldera

By Greg Lewandowski
​Image (c) Greg Lewandowski

Valles is a wonderful place to visit in the winter. Quiet and peaceful offering miles of groomed snowshoe trails. It’s a short drive from Los Alamos and from my home in Medanales it took me about an hour and 20 mins.

Some things to be aware of if you decide to go.

You’re in a wilderness area with unpredictable wildlife, changing weather conditions, deep snow, and snow covered streams. Stay on groomed trails and avoid the trails that are groomed for cross country skiers. I bring hiking poles with snow baskets. The temps are much colder than what is listed on the internet. When I went it said 30 degrees when I got there it was 8 degrees. I warmed up quickly and the coldest spot is the rangers station. You can always call ahead. I always bring a GPS and a SAR device. Cell phone service is spotty.

I took the trail that started at the second ranger station. It was an out and back trail 4 miles total. If you check in at the ranger station they can explain how to drive in or you can check with them about other trails. They have various trails to choose from.

I enjoyed the trail I took and look forward to going back for a longer trail. This one took just over 3 hours. I would say it was moderate with a total of 500 feet of elevation.There is a vast feeling of open space with mountain peaks in the distance. There is somethijng special about winter that gives a seense of peace and tranquility.
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I would advise calling ahead to check the conditions and the weather. If there has been a lot of fresh snow all the trails might not be groomed. ​