Contact Info
- Phone:
- 575-586-0520
Basics
- Difficulty:
- Easy,
Intermediate - Trailhead Elevation:
- 9000 feet
- Elevation Range:
- 9000 feet to 11000 feet
- Elevation Change:
- 2000 feet
- Usage:
- Moderate
Description
The Valle Vidal Unit offers a wide range of outstanding winter fun. A trip to the Valle Vidal takes all day. If you are snowmobiling bring extra gas. The Valle Vidal is only open to snowmobiling if the elk have moved. In most years, the resident herd of 2,000 will migrate east to a lower and warmer climate once a few feet of snow are on the ground. Check with the Questa District to see if the Ranger has opened the Valle Vidal to snowmobiling. To protect this wildlife treasure, only certain areas are open. Due to the distance and remoteness, we recommend the Valle Vidal trip to those with experience or those having the assistance of a guide.
In the summer months you can hike, horseback or mountain bike in this area.
In the summer months the trail is used for hiking, mountain biking, Atv's, motorcycle and horseback riding. In the Winter he trails are used for cross country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.
Details
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Trailhead Elevation:
Elevation Range:
Elevation Change:
Usage:
Useful Map(s):
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
Road access is via Costilla from the west and Cimarron from the east. Forest Roads are not plowed. Snowmobile access is available from the southwest side via Mallette and Cabresto Canyons though the Midnight area to Chuck Wagon Canyon. The west side (except for the La Cuerva area) is available for winter sports use when the District Ranger announces it is open. The opening is timed to coincide with the movement of elk to the east side winter range, which incidentally, is when the snow is deep enough for winter recreation use. Separate cross-country skiing/snowshoeing and snowmobiling areas are designated on the west side of the Valle Vidal Unit. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are permitted on the north side of Forest Road 1950. Snowmobiling is only permitted on the south side. The area east of the county line is closed to all off road activities.
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