The weather is moderate in the valley itself. The typical January temperature swing is from +10 to 45 and in the heat of the summer 50 to 85 degrees F. On the plains end near Watrous and Wagon Mound the temperatures are more extreme. County rainfall averages 16" per year, and a bit more in the valley and higher elevations.
The population of the county was 4,264 in 1990 and now is about 4,750 people. About half live in Mora Valley. Population density is one person per square kilometer. In the 1990 census 44% were either under 18 or over 65. About 75% of the increase is from people moving in from outside.
The only incorporated municipality in the county is the Village of Wagon Mound, located in the northeast corner of the county. It is named after a distinctive rock formation which was a noted landmark on the Santa Fe Trail. Fort Union, built to protect the trail, is located nearby.
Mora is a beautiful sight. One of the most beautiful sites in the United States. Carson National Forest, Santa Fe National Forest and the Pecos Wilderness Area all occupy portions of Mora County. It is one of the finest trout fishing regions in the state, with a year round angling season. Coyote Creek State Park and Morphy Lake State Park are located in Mora. Sipapu ski area is nearby.