Unit 55A · Carson National Forest
The Valle Vidal, meaning “Valley of Life,” is a 101,794-acre mountain basin in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northern New Mexico, located within the Carson National Forest northwest of Cimarron. Widely considered one of the premier public-land hunting areas in New Mexico, Valle Vidal offers exceptional opportunities for hunters seeking a true backcountry experience.
With elevations ranging from 7,700 to 12,554 feet, Valle Vidal features a diverse mix of high-elevation meadows, timbered ridges, alpine basins, and riparian corridors. These varied habitats support a strong and healthy wildlife population, making the area especially well-known for its large, free-ranging elk herd, estimated at approximately 2,500 animals. Valle Vidal is a highly sought-after destination for New Mexico elk hunters, particularly those looking for quality bulls and challenging, fair-chase conditions on public land.
Valle Vidal borders Vermejo Park Ranch, Philmont Scout Ranch, and several private land holdings, creating natural travel corridors that benefit wildlife movement and seasonal migration. It remains one of New Mexico’s most respected and challenging hunting areas, prized for its trophy potential, low-impact management, and authentic public-land elk hunting experience.
A Valle Vidal elk hunt is widely recognized as a once-in-a-lifetime New Mexico big game hunting opportunity. This country holds a special place in our hearts, and every hunt we guide here reflects our deep respect for the land, the wildlife, and the opportunity it provides. With over 20 years of hands-on elk hunting experience in Valle Vidal, we bring local knowledge, terrain expertise, and trophy elk insight to every guided hunt.
Days may be added on archery hunts for an additional cost.
Pricing does not include tax or state licenses.
Our goal at Ten High Outfitters is to get our clients into the best hunts our state has to offer and provide you with the experience of a lifetime regardless of your weapon of choice.
Applying through a New Mexico registered outfitter can nearly double your odds of drawing a Valle Vidal tag compared to applying on your own as a non-resident.
Access to the outfitter allocation pool — 10% of licenses, versus 6% for non-residents applying alone.
In-depth local knowledge of this unit, plus strategic hunt, season and weapon selection to maximize success and trophy potential.
We guide hunters who drew on their own too — even outside the outfitter pool. Same service, same effort, same country.
Drawing a Valle Vidal tag is rare — making the most of it matters.
