National Preserve · NM

Dogs in Valles Caldera National Preserve

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Limited accessLeash: 6 feet maximum, at all times.

Valles Caldera allows leashed dogs only on four named front-country trails plus roadways, parking, and picnic areas near the Cabin District. The backcountry and all other trails are closed to pets.

Leashed pets are allowed on the Cabin District Trail, Cerro La Jara Loop, Rabbit Mountain Loop, and South Valle Grande Trail, plus front-country parking lots, picnic areas, and roadways within the Cabin District.
Photo: NPS Photo · NPS

Where dogs are allowed

Leashed pets are allowed on the Cabin District Trail, Cerro La Jara Loop, Rabbit Mountain Loop, and South Valle Grande Trail, plus front-country parking lots, picnic areas, and roadways within the Cabin District.

Where dogs are banned

The backcountry and all trails past the Cabin District, and any trail not listed above.

Trail by trail

Dogs OKCabin District TrailLeashed pets allowed.
Dogs OKCerro La Jara LoopLeashed pets allowed.
Dogs OKRabbit Mountain LoopLeashed pets allowed.
Dogs OKSouth Valle Grande TrailLeashed pets allowed.

Leash rule

6 feet maximum, at all times.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
National Park Service
View the official NPS page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Designation
National Preserve

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Valles Caldera National Preserve?

Valles Caldera allows leashed dogs only on four named front-country trails plus roadways, parking, and picnic areas near the Cabin District. The backcountry and all other trails are closed to pets. Leashed pets are allowed on the Cabin District Trail, Cerro La Jara Loop, Rabbit Mountain Loop, and South Valle Grande Trail, plus front-country parking lots, picnic areas, and roadways within the Cabin District.

What is the leash rule at Valles Caldera National Preserve?

6 feet maximum, at all times.

Which trails allow dogs at Valles Caldera National Preserve?

Leashed dogs are allowed on: Cabin District Trail, Cerro La Jara Loop, Rabbit Mountain Loop, South Valle Grande Trail.

Are service animals allowed at Valles Caldera National Preserve?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.