Wildlife Photography

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR......More

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR, DSLR, Mirrorless, Mobile). The program will begin outside the Volcano Discovery Center at 9am and will carvan to trail location at 9:15am, with no exceptions.

Meet at the Volcano Discovery Center.

The Valles Caldera Eruption Experience

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 th......More

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!

This experience takes place at the Volcano Discovery Center, located in the Cabin District approximately 4 miles into the park from NM-4.

Instant Film Photography Program

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......More

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.

This program begins at the Volcano Discovery Center, located in the Cabin District approximately 4 miles down the park road from the main entrance.

The Valles Caldera Eruption Experience

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 th......More

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!

This experience takes place at the Volcano Discovery Center, located in the Cabin District approximately 4 miles into the park from NM-4.

The Valles Caldera Eruption Experience

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 th......More

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!

This experience takes place at the Volcano Discovery Center, located in the Cabin District approximately 4 miles into the park from NM-4.

Wildlife Photography

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR......More

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR, DSLR, Mirrorless, Mobile). The program will begin outside the Volcano Discovery Center at 9am and will carvan to trail location at 9:15am, with no exceptions.

Meet at the Volcano Discovery Center.

The Valles Caldera Eruption Experience

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 th......More

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!

This experience takes place at the Volcano Discovery Center, located in the Cabin District approximately 4 miles into the park from NM-4.

Wildlife Photography

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR......More

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR, DSLR, Mirrorless, Mobile). The program will begin outside the Volcano Discovery Center at 10:00 am.

Meet at the Volcano Discovery Center.

The Valles Caldera Eruption Experience

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 th......More

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!

This experience takes place at the Volcano Discovery Center, located in the Cabin District approximately 4 miles into the park from NM-4.

The Valles Caldera Eruption Experience

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 th......More

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!

This experience takes place at the Volcano Discovery Center, located in the Cabin District approximately 4 miles into the park from NM-4.

Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta

With elk bugling during misty mornings and aspen leaves turning shades of gold, fall is a magical time in the Jemez Mountains. Come celebrate the season at the Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta. The 2026 event will run daily from Friday, September 25, through Sunday, September......More

With elk bugling during misty mornings and aspen leaves turning shades of gold, fall is a magical time in the Jemez Mountains. Come celebrate the season at the Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta. The 2026 event will run daily from Friday, September 25, through Sunday, September 27. Each day will have different ways for you to connect with this volcanic landscape.Events will be held in the Cabin District, which is located about 4 miles down the park's gravel entrance road. Activities will include:Live musicArtisan village and educational boothsCultural demonstrationsGuest speakersEruption simulations every hour on the half hour in the Volcano Discovery CenterRanger programsSelf-guided after-hours access of Valle GrandeAs activities are confirmed, details will be shared in the daily schedule on the Fall Fiesta webpage. We look forward to seeing you at Valles Caldera National Preserve!NOTE: Leashed and well-behaved pets are welcome at Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta. They may accompany their humans on the Cabin District Trail, in picnic areas, and at the artisan village. However, pets are not permitted inside of the Volcano Discovery Center or in the park's backcountry. Thank you for understanding!

The Cabin District is approximately 4 miles down the park road from NM-4.

Dr. Nelia Dunbar: "New Mexico Volcanism"

In partnership between Los Alamos ScienceFest and Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta, join Dr. Nelia Dunbar (Emerita New Mexico State Geologist) at Valles Caldera National Preserve for a presentation about Quaternary volcanism throughout New Mexico.With a background in geochemi......More

In partnership between Los Alamos ScienceFest and Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta, join Dr. Nelia Dunbar (Emerita New Mexico State Geologist) at Valles Caldera National Preserve for a presentation about Quaternary volcanism throughout New Mexico.With a background in geochemistry, Dr. Nelia Dunbar is now the emerita director and state geologist at the New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources. She completed a B.A. degree, summa cum laude, in geology at Mount Holyoke College (1983) and then went on to a Ph.D. in geochemistry at New Mexico Tech (1989). Dunbar has worked for the Bureau since 1992, focusing on geochemistry of volcanic rocks, particularly volcanic ashes and other explosive eruptions, mainly in New Mexico and Antarctica. She also received funding from NSF for an electron microprobe in 1996, which she managed until 2016. Her professional interests include research on a wide range of topics broadly focused on volcanic and igneous processes, in New Mexico and elsewhere. These include studies of volcanic eruption processes, geochemical evolution of magmas, chronology and chemistry of volcanic ashes, fluid migration within magmas, and geochemical alteration caused by fluids that interact with volcanic rocks. Dunbar has also spent 24 field seasons in Antarctica, working on NSF-funded projects, all related to Antarctic volcanism, and interactions between volcanism, ice, and climate. In addition to New Mexico and Antarctica, she has worked in Tibet, Peru, Ethiopia, Bolivia, Ecuador, all on projects related to volcanism. Dunbar is is involved in outreach activities for New Mexico teachers and students. She also served on the executive committee of the Association of American State Geologists (AASG), is a GSA Fellow and board member of the GSA Foundation, received the New Mexico Tech Distinguished Research Award in 2021, and is a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Sigma Xi.

This presentation will take place in the Fall Fiesta event tent, located in Valles Caldera's Cabin District.

Dr. Kirt Kempter: "The Geology of Valles Caldera, New Mexico"

In partnership between Los Alamos ScienceFest and Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta please join us at Valles Caldera National Preserve on Friday September 25 at 12:00 pm for a geology presentation by Dr. Kirt Kempter!Speaker Bio:Dr. Kirt Kempter is a geologist and large-format......More

In partnership between Los Alamos ScienceFest and Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta please join us at Valles Caldera National Preserve on Friday September 25 at 12:00 pm for a geology presentation by Dr. Kirt Kempter!Speaker Bio:Dr. Kirt Kempter is a geologist and large-format photographer based in Santa Fe New Mexico. A Fulbright Fellow his research into plate tectonics has led him around the world—from volcanic fields in Costa Rica and Mexico to the frosty landscapes of the Canadian Rockies and Iceland.Kirt’s publications include numerous academic articles and geologic maps (including the Valles Caldera National Preserve Guide & Map!) and his panoramic images are on display at several museums and national parks such as the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the visitor’s center at Death Valley. Kirt has conducted fieldwork on a National Geographic-funded project and over the past decade led many National Geographic Expeditions trips to the western US national parks. He received his doctorate in geology from The University of Texas at Austin.Learn more about the impressive schedule of events and guest speakers for Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta a free event: https://www.nps.gov/vall/planyourvisit/fall-fiesta.htm.Learn more about Los Alamos ScienceFest: https://www.losalamossciencefest.com/.

This presentation will take place at the Fall Fiesta event tent, located in Valles Caldera's Cabin District.

Ranger Program: "Animals of Valles Caldera's Past"

In partnership between Los Alamos ScienceFest and Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta, please join us at Valles Caldera National Preserve on Friday, September 25, at 1:00 pm for a program by Ranger Adam Dean about native wildlife species that once roamed Valles Caldera.

This presentation will take place in the Fall Fiesta event tent in Valles Caldera's Cabin District.

Dr. Craig Allen: "Ecological Changes in the Jemez Mountains Landscape"

In partnership between Los Alamos ScienceFest and Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta please join us at Valles Caldera National Preserve on Friday September 25 at 2:00 pm for a presentation by Dr. Craig Allen! Dr. Allen will discuss the changing Jemez Mountains landscape and how......More

In partnership between Los Alamos ScienceFest and Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta please join us at Valles Caldera National Preserve on Friday September 25 at 2:00 pm for a presentation by Dr. Craig Allen! Dr. Allen will discuss the changing Jemez Mountains landscape and how native wildlife and plant communities have been impacted. If you love our region's old-growth forests ancient montane grasslands elk bighorn sheep pika Mexican spotted owls and Jemez Mountains salamanders  you won't want to miss this presentation!Speaker Bio:Craig D. Allen has enjoyed the opportunity of being a long-term “place-based ecologist” – conducting field research in the Jemez Mountains for the last 45 years. In the 1980s he earned both his MS (Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison) and PhD (Univ. of California-Berkeley) degrees by studying ecological patterns processes and changes in the diverse landscapes of the Jemez Mountains. Co-located with land managers at Bandelier National Monument since 1986 Craig founded and led the Jemez Mountains Field Station (now the New Mexico Landscapes Field Station) for the U.S. Geological Survey helping to foster a vision of collaborative long-term science-management partnerships in northern New Mexico and raised a family here.From 2001-2003 Craig intensely participated in the early Valles Caldera National Preserve startup efforts receiving a national DOI award for “initiative and outstanding service to the Department of Interior and Department of Agriculture for his work to establish a model science program of resource inventory monitoring and research to support land management at the Valles Caldera National Preserve”. He later received the U.S. Department of Interior "Distinguished Service Award" (DOI’s highest honorary recognition) for “outstanding career contributions in developing a deep understanding of the forest and landscape ecology of northern New Mexico and the communication of the understanding to resource managers”. Craig is an elected fellow of the Ecological Society of America and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.  For seven straight years (2018-2024) he was named by the Web of Science group to their globally influential “Highly Cited Researchers” annual list (representing 0.1% of the world’s researchers) in the research category of “Environment/Ecology”.Craig retired from the U.S. Department of Interior after 35 years as a federal research ecologist and continues to volunteer and work with the NPS in the Jemez Mts. and the USGS New Mexico Landscapes Field Station. He remains scientifically active as an Adjunct Research Scholar with the Dept. of Geography & Environmental Studies at the University of New Mexico and continues ecological research and conservation work on forests and global change issues.

This presentation will take place in the Fall Fiesta event tent, located in Valles Caldera's Cabin District.

Valle Grande After Hours

During the 2026 Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta, part of the park will remain open until 8:00 pm each night for self-guided activities like observing/photographing wildlife, taking a sunset hike, or enjoying the night sky. The area that will remain open after-hours is from t......More

During the 2026 Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta, part of the park will remain open until 8:00 pm each night for self-guided activities like observing/photographing wildlife, taking a sunset hike, or enjoying the night sky. The area that will remain open after-hours is from the main entrance to the Cabin District. Make the most of your experience by practicing these after-hours courtesies:Plan ahead and prepare. There will likely be no visitor services available after-hours. For this reason, visitors should bring everything they need for a safe and comfortable visit, including warm clothing, snacks, drinking water, flashlights/headlamps, etc.Respect wildlife. October is the height of the elk rut, which is an amazing phenomenon to witness. To respect this sensitive time for wildlife, please keep noise levels to a minimum, observe from a safe distance, properly dispose of all food waste, and follow posted speed limits.Be considerate of other visitors. Many visitors will come to the caldera after dark to enjoy its magnificent night sky. Please minimize your impact on the stargazing experience by using red headlamps or flashlights, avoiding unnecessary vehicular travel (headlights) in the park after dark, and, when vehicular travel is necessary, following posted speed limits to minimize dust and ensure visitor/wildlife safety.Stay mindful of the time. The main entrance gate will be closed and locked promptly at 8:00 pm each night. It is each visitor's responsibility to be back at their vehicle and exiting the park on time.

The area that will remain open after-hours is from the main entrance to the Cabin District.

The Valles Caldera Eruption Experience

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 th......More

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!

This experience takes place at the Volcano Discovery Center, located in the Cabin District approximately 4 miles into the park from NM-4.

Music in the Valle

In celebration of Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta and National Public Lands Day, we invite you to come out and enjoy live music by New Mexican artists at an outdoor silent disco. Having a silent disco instead of a traditional speaker setup minimizes sound pollution—which pro......More

In celebration of Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta and National Public Lands Day, we invite you to come out and enjoy live music by New Mexican artists at an outdoor silent disco. Having a silent disco instead of a traditional speaker setup minimizes sound pollution—which protects wildlife and the serene natural soundscapes of the park—and provides a more accessible avenue for individuals with hearing impairments to enjoy the music.SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 12:00-1:30 pmHomie Avocado and PreacHer 1:30-3:00 pmCR8 and Bass Queens 3:00-4:30 pmDNDY and Fission Project SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 12:00-1:30 pmCarma and Joey Fettucine 1:30-3:00 pmBurn the Disco and Mii Casa 3:00-4:30 pmgirlwizard and KyletheLord This event is sponsored by Los Amigos de Valles Caldera.

Live music will take place in front of the Volcano Discovery Center in Valles Caldera's Cabin District.

Wildlife Photography

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR......More

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR, DSLR, Mirrorless, Mobile). The program will begin outside the Volcano Discovery Center at 9am and will carvan to trail location at 9:15am, with no exceptions.

Meet at the Volcano Discovery Center.

The Valles Caldera Eruption Experience

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 th......More

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!

This experience takes place at the Volcano Discovery Center, located in the Cabin District approximately 4 miles into the park from NM-4.

The Valles Caldera Eruption Experience

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 th......More

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!

This experience takes place at the Volcano Discovery Center, located in the Cabin District approximately 4 miles into the park from NM-4.

The Valles Caldera Eruption Experience

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 th......More

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!

This experience takes place at the Volcano Discovery Center, located in the Cabin District approximately 4 miles into the park from NM-4.

Wildlife Photography

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR......More

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR, DSLR, Mirrorless, Mobile). The program will begin outside the Volcano Discovery Center at 9am and will carvan to trail location at 9:15am, with no exceptions.

Meet at the Volcano Discovery Center.

The Valles Caldera Eruption Experience

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 th......More

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!

This experience takes place at the Volcano Discovery Center, located in the Cabin District approximately 4 miles into the park from NM-4.

Wildlife Photography

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR......More

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR, DSLR, Mirrorless, Mobile). The program will begin outside the Volcano Discovery Center at 10:00 am.

Meet at the Volcano Discovery Center.