Overview
The Valle Vidal unit of Carson National Forest is unlike anywhere else in the forest system. A 100,000-acre former ranch donated to public ownership in 1982, it preserves a vast expanse of high grassland meadow, aspen forest, and clear mountain streams at elevations between 8,500 and 11,000 feet. The Comanche Creek Trail traverses the heart of this landscape, following one of the finest native trout streams in New Mexico through meadows that support one of the largest elk herds in the state.
The trail gains only 800 feet over 5 miles, making it one of the more accessible moderate hikes in the forest. The terrain is more open than the densely forested trails near Taos Ski Valley, giving the walk a different character: expansive views of the surrounding ridges, long sight lines across the meadow, and the sense that the country continues well beyond what is visible. Pronghorn, elk, mule deer, and bear all use the Valle Vidal, and wildlife sightings are consistently better here than at the more traveled forest corridors.
Fishing is a separate draw. Comanche Creek holds native Rio Grande cutthroat trout, a species of conservation concern, along with brown trout. Special regulations may apply; check New Mexico Game and Fish before fishing.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2: Trailhead to Mid-Meadow. The trail begins at the Comanche Creek Trailhead and follows the creek upstream through open grassland. The grade is gentle. The creek is visible on the right side of the trail through willows and sedge. Elk are frequently spotted grazing in the meadow in early morning; the open terrain makes long-distance animal observation easy.
Miles 2 to 2.5: Meadow Transition to Upper Corridor. The valley narrows slightly at mile 2 as the surrounding ridges close in. Aspen groves begin to appear on the hillsides. The trail continues at a gentle grade through increasingly forested terrain. The turnaround point at mile 2.5 is a natural rest stop near a creek bend with a wide, flat bank.
When to Visit
June through October is the standard access window for the Valle Vidal. The area is closed to public access from January 1 through May 31 each year to protect elk calving and wintering habitat. Verify current opening dates with the Questa Ranger District before planning an early-season visit.
Fall is the peak season. October in the Valle Vidal offers golden aspen, elk bugling during the rut, and temperatures that are cool and comfortable. It is one of the finest fall experiences in northern New Mexico.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry the following for Comanche Creek:
- Binoculars (the open meadow makes this a premier wildlife observation route)
- Fishing gear if desired (Rio Grande cutthroat and brown trout)
- Sunscreen and hat (the meadow sections are fully exposed)
- Water (treat creek water)
- Layers (temperatures in the Valle Vidal can be cool even in summer)
Practical Details
No permit required for hiking (as of 2026). Valle Vidal seasonal access closure applies January 1 through May 31; verify dates. Dispersed camping is permitted in the Valle Vidal following Carson National Forest guidelines. The area is managed by the Questa Ranger District.
Fishing requires a valid New Mexico fishing license. Special regulations may apply on Comanche Creek for native cutthroat protection; confirm with New Mexico Game and Fish before fishing.
Getting There
From Cimarron, New Mexico, take US Highway 64 west and turn north on NM Highway 204. Continue north through the Cimarron Canyon area and turn left on NM Highway 196 toward the Valle Vidal entrance. The Comanche Creek Trailhead is approximately 10 miles from the Highway 204 junction on an improved gravel road. Drive time from Cimarron is approximately 30 minutes; from Taos, allow approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes via US-64 east to Cimarron then north.
For full Carson National Forest planning, see the forest guide and checking conditions before you go for seasonal access and current conditions.