2024 elk hunting enters 'archery season'

JEMEZ SPRINGS — On Sept. 9, the National Park Service issued a message reminding residents and visitors in the Valles Caldera National Preserve that elk hunting season is in full swing.

“Hunters who received a draw from New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) for Valles Caldera may be visible in the park,” said a news release.

The announcement was with purpose, however, not just a reminder. The NPS says September is “archery season,” which means hunters will not be required to wear blaze orange. The rule only applies to archery season, and the NPS says blaze orange is required for all other hunts.

Valles Caldera National Preserve, a 13-mile-wide caldera created by a volcanic eruption over 1.25 million years ago, is one of New Mexico's most popular elk hunting locations, with 2,500-3,000 elk calling it home, according to NPS.gov.

“Hunts are designed to pay homage to man's oldest relationship with animals by providing the public with a memorable hunting experience,” says the site.

According to NMDGF, between 2017 and 2021, an average of 37,282 licenses were sold to hunters, “resulting in average harvests of 8,404 bulls and 6,428 cows each year. Average reported hunt success, across all weapons and license types, was 41.1% annually.”

The NPS adds an additional warning for the hunters themselves, pointing out on their website that September, October and November are the best time frames for prescribed fire season.

“While on your hunt you may encounter smoke, fire crews, fire equipment, road closures and closures to portions of the preserve.”

Elk season runs until Dec. 4.

For additional information about hunting at Valles Caldera, visit the hunting page at nps.gov.

Though the Valles Caldera is under the purview of the federal government via the National Parks Service, elk hunting drawings for the area are managed by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish.

Information on how to apply for the state drawings can be found at wildlife.state.nm.us.