Hike in Valles Caldera Backcountry

The backcountry of the Valles Caldera is a very unique area to hike in. They only let a small number of vehicles into the area each day. I got a permit for one vehicle and 4 people for this event. Depending on the weather I plan on doing 1 of 2 hikes. If weather is good the plan will be to hike up VC12 to the northern boundry of the park. This is about a 8 miles roundtrip hike with a gain of nearly 2000 feet. It is suppose to have great views of the entire preserve from the summit. This hike would be classified as STRENOUS. If the weather is not so good then we'll hike along VC04 along the base of Cerro Del Medio. This hike would be an out and back for as long as the group wants to go. I'm guessing about 10 miles roundtrip. There is very little elevation gain on this hike and offers great views of the main Caldera meadow. I would classify this hike as EASY to MODERATE depending on the distance. You could turn around at any time if you wanted. The drive to the entrance of the Preserve is about 75 miles one way. With an additional 5-10 miles into the Preserve. All on pavement to the entrance and then decent gravel and dirt roads. NO DOGS or WHINERS! Pets are not allowed in the Preserve. Be prepared to reimburse your driver at the rate of $.10 per mile round trip or about $20.00 for the day. If we have more than 4 people going then another permit will have to be applied for. The cost $2.00 on Recreational Gov.com. For more information ask your questions below and I'll answer below. Remember 7AM MEETUP TIME!