Valles Caldera National Preserve

Come and experience an immersive simulation of the Valles Caldera eruption! Every hour on the half-hour, the Volcano Discovery Center "erupts" with a multisensory exhibit experience that showcases the past 1.2 million years of geologic history at Valles Caldera. Feel the rumble and quaking of the earth. Hear the explosive volcanic forces that created the 14-mile-wide caldera. Watch the lakes and lava domes appear. At the end of the show, bask in a newfound understanding of this unique landscape, and continue to learn and discover more by interacting with the immersive Valles Caldera exhibit.

WARNING: This show includes loud explosion sound effects and flashing lights. For individuals with sensory sensitivities, we recommend visiting the Volcano Discovery Center after the show has concluded (at :35 past the hour). Ask a park ranger about how to experience a sensory-friendly version of the eruption show!

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains.

Learn the basics of wildlife photography and compositional recommendations all while exploring Valles Caldera and the Jemez Mountain region. You will need to provide your own camera for this program (Mirrorless, DSLR, SLR, or mobile). Hiking distance varies from 1-5 miles.

While snowshoeing or skiing on groomed trails around the scenic La Jara peak, participants will learn about the history of wolves and grizzly bears in Valles Caldera, the role of these apex predators in the ecosystem, and the current state of the Mexican gray wolf recovery program. Participants must bring appropriate clothing for winter weather, hydration, and snacks. The route is approximately 1.5 miles.

Join Ranger Adam for a guided ski tour of Valles Caldera National Preserve. Listen to the sounds of Valles Caldera in the winter and learn about the connections between nature's soundscapes and the wider ecosystem. Participants will leave the sounds of urban life and technology behind to discover the sounds of nature and the unique ecology of Valles Caldera.

For this program, guests must bring their own skiing equipment. Rugged cross-country skis or light telemark and alpine touring setups are recommended with fish scale patterns or skins. Split boards are also fine. Participants are encouraged to bring water, snacks, and appropriate winter clothing. Depending on snow conditions and guest wishes, the tour will leave from the Volcano Discovery Center and go for a 4-5 mile loop on groomed trails. This is a strenuous route at altitude that requires proper hydration, nutrition, and physical conditioning.

Registration is not required.

Join park rangers for an evening under the stars in the Cabin District. Activities will include stargazing and an astrophotography workshop. Telescopes and star binoculars will be provided for participants.

Learn the basics of photography and compositional recommendations using an instant film camera, all while exploring Valles Caldera. A camera and film will be provided, but exposures will be limited to 2 per person. If you want to take more than two photos, you can purchase your own film to use (Polaroid i-Type, color or black & white) and can bring your own instant film camera as well. The program is approximately 1 hour in duration.

Spots are limited. Registration required.

Join us for a ranger-guided hike on El Cajete Trail! This hike is approximately 3 miles in duration and will focus on wildlife viewing and winter soundscapes. Participants should bring appropriate clothing for winter weather, hydration, and snacks. Binoculars and cameras are encouraged, too.

No registration required.

While snowshoeing or skiing on groomed trails around the scenic La Jara peak, participants will learn about the history of wolves and grizzly bears in Valles Caldera, the role of these apex predators in the ecosystem, and the current state of the Mexican gray wolf recovery program. Participants must bring appropriate clothing for winter weather, hydration, and snacks. The route is approximately 1.5 miles.

Join park rangers for an evening under the full moon with a guided hike from the Cabin District to History Grove. Activities will include curated stories connected to Valles Caldera, a 2-mile hike on the road from the Cabin District to History Grove and back, and a short workshop on astrophotography.

Snowshoes are available to rent onsite if you do not own a pair.

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains.

Learn the basics of wildlife photography and compositional recommendations all while exploring Valles Caldera and the Jemez Mountain region. You will need to provide your own camera for this program (Mirrorless, DSLR, SLR, or mobile). Hiking distance varies from 1-5 miles.