Few experiences are quite as peaceful as watching nature simply exist. Pine and birch trees sway in the breeze, creeks burble over rocks, and wildlife forage and migrate. It makes you wonder if bird watchers routinely score lower than the rest of us on hypertension tests.

One location that is secluded and stunning for watching animals do animal things is at Valle Vidal.
Matt Dzierbun/Google
Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of Carson National Forest, this hidden spot features sprawling meadows, towering trees, and huge herds of elk.
This location is also exceptionally remote. The closest town is the tiny village Amalia, which is approximately one hour away.
Matt Dzierbun/Google
Most of the road between Valle Vidal and the village is composed of gravel forest road, so you'll want to make sure you bring water, snacks, and that your vehicle is able to traverse dirt roads.
In fact, Valle Vidal is one of the top locations in the state to view elk seemingly undisturbed in their natural habitat.
The U.S. Forest Service-Carson National Forest/Facebook
One outdoor magazine based here in the Southwest estimates that 2,500 elk roam through these mountainsides and meadows.
Elk used to cover the New Mexico landscape.
The U.S. Forest Service-Carson National Forest/Facebook
A publication by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish mentions that in 1875, a massive herd of approximately 2,000 was seen in the southern portion of the state!

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However, the elk population was mostly decimated during the state's territorial days.
The U.S. Forest Service-Carson National Forest/Facebook
It was eradicated across the state by 1909. Elk were reintroduced into the state from Yellowstone National Park in 1910 with a humble herd of 15.
The good news is that populations have increased.
John Byrne/Google
That small elk herd grew to roughly 60 statewide in 1912, then to 12,000 by 1967, and approximately 72,000 in 1999. This is why efforts are still being made to ensure the animals and their habit are protected. Some areas of Valle Vidal and other areas of the state close in the early summer months—May and June, to be exact—when the elk are calving.
So, when visiting Valle Vidal, enjoy watching the elk from afar!
KrisNM/Flickr
Your best bet is to find a quiet spot near trails, streams, and lakes in the early morning or late afternoon. Wait in the silence and you will see one of these majestic herds stroll nearby.
Valle Vidal is located in Carson National Forest, approximately 70 miles (or two hours) north of Taos via state highways 522 and 196.
Google Maps

For additional information on visiting Valle Vidal and viewing elk, visit the websites for the U.S. Forest Service and the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish.

Website: U.S. Forest Service
Website: New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
Directions: Google Maps

When visiting, don’t forget to do your part to Leave No Trace to keep our forests clean and wildlife healthy. This includes taking with you what you bring, respecting wildlife, and leaving what you find.

Another picturesque location to spot elk in New Mexico is at Valles Caldera National Preserve. Read about the preserve and its volcanic history in One Of The Country’s Few Supervolcanoes Is Hiding Right Here In New Mexico.

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Valle Vidal, New Mexico 87558, USA