Friday, December 7, 2007

New National Preserve Opens for Winter Sports in New Mexico

This winter, New Mexico is opening 6,000 acres of the new Valles Caldera National Preserve for winter sports.

The preserve is New Mexico's newest public land, a huge, stunning former private ranch that sprawls across some 89,000 acres. It is located about one hour from Santa Fe, even less from Los Alamos.

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts can enjoy 35 Kilometers of X-C trails, a combination of set and flat track. Or, head off anywhere in the entire 6,000 acre area designated if you want to break your own trail.

A yurt to yurt program for overnight skiers and snowshoers will be available through a special lottery. The Valley Caldera National Park has been off-limits to all recreation for decades and holds true treasures including old-growth forest, remarkable geology, and huge views.

VCNP is the newest member of Ski New Mexico, which includes world-famous and legendary resorts like Taos Ski Valley, and also lesser-known gems such as Pajarita Mountain, Angel Fire and Ski Santa Fe, which is just outside town.