This One Easy Hike In New Mexico Will Lead You Someplace Unforgettable
Next time you’re in the mood for an easy hike, head to Valles Caldera in the Jemez Mountains. The 2.9-mile long Coyote Call Trail there provides you with panoramic views of one of the largest volcanic craters on the planet.
About 1.2 million years ago, a supervolcano that geologists estimate was between 11,000 and 25,000 feet tall, loomed over New Mexico. When it erupted, it spewed ash as far away as Iowa. The caldera was formed when the volcano collapsed.
In case you were wondering, magma continues to bubble away under the Earth’s surface here, which is why there are hot springs in the area.
In case you were wondering, magma continues to bubble away under the Earth’s surface here, which is why there are hot springs in the area.
The Coyote Call Trail is a loop that provides expansive views of Valle Grande, the biggest of the grass valleys that form the caldera.
This trail begins in a meadow. From there, it leads you into a forest of fir, ponderosa pine, and aspen.
This trail begins in a meadow. From there, it leads you into a forest of fir, ponderosa pine, and aspen.
There are points where the trail splits, but it's fairly well marked.
The thinning trees allow you to see across Valle Grande to Redondo Peak (pictured below). This resurgent dome formed following the major eruption and is 11,258 feet high.
Wildlife abounds in the Valles Caldera, which is a national preserve. Aside from coyotes, you may well spy the herd of elk that roams this area, especially if you walk early in the day.
In 2011, Las Conchas Fire burned through the Caldera.
This photograph was taken shortly after the blaze.
This photograph was taken shortly after the blaze.
Other fires, including prescribed burns, have left their mark on the landscape, but they do nothing to detract from the beauty of this unique part of New Mexico.
In summer, this is a cool hiking spot. The floor of the caldera is at an altitude of 8500 feet, while the rim is at 9000 feet so temperatures are pleasant. However, the trail offers different advantages throughout the year. In fall, the yellows of the turning aspens make the caldera a photographer’s paradise.
In winter, it’s fun to snowshoe here, although the trail is a little tougher to follow then!
The trailhead is off Highway 4, near mile marker 41.
Leashed dogs are permitted on the Coyote Call Trail.
Isn’t this area spectacular? Have you ever hiked in Valles Caldera?
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