Self-guided Tour: Valles Caldera Auto Tour

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharingÂ......More

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharing interesting information about each stop.All park visitors are welcome to explore the park's front-country roads from NM-4 to the Cabin District. Beyond the Cabin District, vehicular access requires a backcountry pass reservation via www.recreation.gov. Passes are limited, so if you wish to complete the backcountry portion of the auto tour, please reserve your backcountry pass in advance.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

This self-guided driving tour begins at the Valle Grande overlooks along NM State Route 4.

Self-guided Tour: Cerro La Jara Geology Hike

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape ar......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape around you. What's the difference between a lava dome and a resurgent dome? Why is Valle Grande so flat? And what exactly is a caldera, anyway? This tour will answer all of the most common questions about the park's geology.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cerro La Jara Trailhead is located at the Valle Grande Entrance Station.

Self-guided Tour: Hemish Connections

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Histori......More

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Christopher Toya, traditional religious leader Brophy Toledo, and cultural resources leaders Byron Andrew and Mark Magdalena.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Self-guided Tour: A Day on the Ranch

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted her......More

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted here for nearly 100 years.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cabin District is located about 4 miles down the park entrance road from the main gate at NM-4.

Self-guided Tour: Sulphur Springs Geology Walk

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you m......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you may otherwise miss. CAUTION: Please watch your step and stay a safe distance from all features. The terrain at Sulphur Springs is rough, and there is currently no designated trail to follow through the geothermal area.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Start your tour at the Sulphur Creek Trailhead, located at Valles Caldera National Preserve's boundary gate on FR 105/Sulphur Creek Road.

Self-guided Tour: Valles Caldera Auto Tour

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharingÂ......More

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharing interesting information about each stop.All park visitors are welcome to explore the park's front-country roads from NM-4 to the Cabin District. Beyond the Cabin District, vehicular access requires a backcountry pass reservation via www.recreation.gov. Passes are limited, so if you wish to complete the backcountry portion of the auto tour, please reserve your backcountry pass in advance.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

This self-guided driving tour begins at the Valle Grande overlooks along NM State Route 4.

Self-guided Tour: Cerro La Jara Geology Hike

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape ar......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape around you. What's the difference between a lava dome and a resurgent dome? Why is Valle Grande so flat? And what exactly is a caldera, anyway? This tour will answer all of the most common questions about the park's geology.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cerro La Jara Trailhead is located at the Valle Grande Entrance Station.

Self-guided Tour: Hemish Connections

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Histori......More

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Christopher Toya, traditional religious leader Brophy Toledo, and cultural resources leaders Byron Andrew and Mark Magdalena.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Self-guided Tour: A Day on the Ranch

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted her......More

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted here for nearly 100 years.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cabin District is located about 4 miles down the park entrance road from the main gate at NM-4.

Self-guided Tour: Sulphur Springs Geology Walk

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you m......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you may otherwise miss. CAUTION: Please watch your step and stay a safe distance from all features. The terrain at Sulphur Springs is rough, and there is currently no designated trail to follow through the geothermal area.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Start your tour at the Sulphur Creek Trailhead, located at Valles Caldera National Preserve's boundary gate on FR 105/Sulphur Creek Road.

Self-guided Tour: Valles Caldera Auto Tour

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharingÂ......More

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharing interesting information about each stop.All park visitors are welcome to explore the park's front-country roads from NM-4 to the Cabin District. Beyond the Cabin District, vehicular access requires a backcountry pass reservation via www.recreation.gov. Passes are limited, so if you wish to complete the backcountry portion of the auto tour, please reserve your backcountry pass in advance.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

This self-guided driving tour begins at the Valle Grande overlooks along NM State Route 4.

Self-guided Tour: Cerro La Jara Geology Hike

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape ar......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape around you. What's the difference between a lava dome and a resurgent dome? Why is Valle Grande so flat? And what exactly is a caldera, anyway? This tour will answer all of the most common questions about the park's geology.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cerro La Jara Trailhead is located at the Valle Grande Entrance Station.

Self-guided Tour: Hemish Connections

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Histori......More

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Christopher Toya, traditional religious leader Brophy Toledo, and cultural resources leaders Byron Andrew and Mark Magdalena.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Self-guided Tour: A Day on the Ranch

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted her......More

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted here for nearly 100 years.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cabin District is located about 4 miles down the park entrance road from the main gate at NM-4.

Self-guided Tour: Sulphur Springs Geology Walk

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you m......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you may otherwise miss. CAUTION: Please watch your step and stay a safe distance from all features. The terrain at Sulphur Springs is rough, and there is currently no designated trail to follow through the geothermal area.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Start your tour at the Sulphur Creek Trailhead, located at Valles Caldera National Preserve's boundary gate on FR 105/Sulphur Creek Road.

Self-guided Tour: Valles Caldera Auto Tour

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharingÂ......More

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharing interesting information about each stop.All park visitors are welcome to explore the park's front-country roads from NM-4 to the Cabin District. Beyond the Cabin District, vehicular access requires a backcountry pass reservation via www.recreation.gov. Passes are limited, so if you wish to complete the backcountry portion of the auto tour, please reserve your backcountry pass in advance.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

This self-guided driving tour begins at the Valle Grande overlooks along NM State Route 4.

Self-guided Tour: Cerro La Jara Geology Hike

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape ar......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape around you. What's the difference between a lava dome and a resurgent dome? Why is Valle Grande so flat? And what exactly is a caldera, anyway? This tour will answer all of the most common questions about the park's geology.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cerro La Jara Trailhead is located at the Valle Grande Entrance Station.

Self-guided Tour: Hemish Connections

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Histori......More

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Christopher Toya, traditional religious leader Brophy Toledo, and cultural resources leaders Byron Andrew and Mark Magdalena.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Self-guided Tour: A Day on the Ranch

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted her......More

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted here for nearly 100 years.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cabin District is located about 4 miles down the park entrance road from the main gate at NM-4.

Self-guided Tour: Sulphur Springs Geology Walk

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you m......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you may otherwise miss. CAUTION: Please watch your step and stay a safe distance from all features. The terrain at Sulphur Springs is rough, and there is currently no designated trail to follow through the geothermal area.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Start your tour at the Sulphur Creek Trailhead, located at Valles Caldera National Preserve's boundary gate on FR 105/Sulphur Creek Road.

Self-guided Tour: Valles Caldera Auto Tour

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharingÂ......More

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharing interesting information about each stop.All park visitors are welcome to explore the park's front-country roads from NM-4 to the Cabin District. Beyond the Cabin District, vehicular access requires a backcountry pass reservation via www.recreation.gov. Passes are limited, so if you wish to complete the backcountry portion of the auto tour, please reserve your backcountry pass in advance.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

This self-guided driving tour begins at the Valle Grande overlooks along NM State Route 4.

Self-guided Tour: Cerro La Jara Geology Hike

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape ar......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape around you. What's the difference between a lava dome and a resurgent dome? Why is Valle Grande so flat? And what exactly is a caldera, anyway? This tour will answer all of the most common questions about the park's geology.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cerro La Jara Trailhead is located at the Valle Grande Entrance Station.

Self-guided Tour: Hemish Connections

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Histori......More

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Christopher Toya, traditional religious leader Brophy Toledo, and cultural resources leaders Byron Andrew and Mark Magdalena.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Self-guided Tour: A Day on the Ranch

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted her......More

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted here for nearly 100 years.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cabin District is located about 4 miles down the park entrance road from the main gate at NM-4.

Moonlit La Jara Hike

Experience Valles Caldera illuminated by the full moon during a hike around Cerro La Jara with a park ranger. Participants will discover the nocturnal wonders of the park on this 2-hour, 1.4-mile (2.4 km) hike. 

Self-guided Tour: Sulphur Springs Geology Walk

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you m......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you may otherwise miss. CAUTION: Please watch your step and stay a safe distance from all features. The terrain at Sulphur Springs is rough, and there is currently no designated trail to follow through the geothermal area.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Start your tour at the Sulphur Creek Trailhead, located at Valles Caldera National Preserve's boundary gate on FR 105/Sulphur Creek Road.

Self-guided Tour: Valles Caldera Auto Tour

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharingÂ......More

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharing interesting information about each stop.All park visitors are welcome to explore the park's front-country roads from NM-4 to the Cabin District. Beyond the Cabin District, vehicular access requires a backcountry pass reservation via www.recreation.gov. Passes are limited, so if you wish to complete the backcountry portion of the auto tour, please reserve your backcountry pass in advance.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

This self-guided driving tour begins at the Valle Grande overlooks along NM State Route 4.

Self-guided Tour: Cerro La Jara Geology Hike

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape ar......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape around you. What's the difference between a lava dome and a resurgent dome? Why is Valle Grande so flat? And what exactly is a caldera, anyway? This tour will answer all of the most common questions about the park's geology.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cerro La Jara Trailhead is located at the Valle Grande Entrance Station.

Self-guided Tour: Hemish Connections

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Histori......More

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Christopher Toya, traditional religious leader Brophy Toledo, and cultural resources leaders Byron Andrew and Mark Magdalena.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Self-guided Tour: A Day on the Ranch

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted her......More

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted here for nearly 100 years.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cabin District is located about 4 miles down the park entrance road from the main gate at NM-4.

Self-guided Tour: Sulphur Springs Geology Walk

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you m......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you may otherwise miss. CAUTION: Please watch your step and stay a safe distance from all features. The terrain at Sulphur Springs is rough, and there is currently no designated trail to follow through the geothermal area.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Start your tour at the Sulphur Creek Trailhead, located at Valles Caldera National Preserve's boundary gate on FR 105/Sulphur Creek Road.

Early Bird Bird Tour

Join a ranger and go on a self-propelled birding adventure in Valles Caldera! This program is open to all skill levels. Please come prepared for the designated activity on your program date based on the season. From May through October on the 2nd Sunday, the designated......More

Join a ranger and go on a self-propelled birding adventure in Valles Caldera! This program is open to all skill levels. Please come prepared for the designated activity on your program date based on the season. From May through October on the 2nd Sunday, the designated activity will be hiking. From November through April on the 2nd Sunday, the designated activity will be snowshoeing or XC skiing.Binoculars are available to rent if you do not own a pair. Please arrive at the main gate on NM-4 at 8:00 am, and from there, participants will caravan to the starting location. Trail difficulty will range from easy to moderate. Expect to be out on the trail for 1-2 hours. Please bring a small snack, water, and wear comfortable clothes that are weather-appropriate and shoes to hike short distances (1-3 miles). 

Meet at Valles Caldera's main entrance on NM State Route 4.

Early Bird Bird Tour

Join a ranger and go on a self-propelled birding adventure in Valles Caldera! This program is open to all skill levels. Please come prepared for the designated activity on your program date based on the season. From May through October on the 4th Sunday, the designate......More

Join a ranger and go on a self-propelled birding adventure in Valles Caldera! This program is open to all skill levels. Please come prepared for the designated activity on your program date based on the season. From May through October on the 4th Sunday, the designated activity will be bicycling/e-biking. From November through April on the 4th Sunday, the designated activity will be snowshoeing or XC skiing.Binoculars are available to rent if you do not own a pair. Please arrive at the main gate on NM-4 at 9:00 am, and from there, participants will caravan to the starting location. Trail difficulty will range from easy to moderate. Expect to be out on the trail for 1-2 hours. Please bring a small snack, water, and wear comfortable clothes that are weather-appropriate and shoes to hike short distances (1-3 miles) or bike up to 10 miles. 

Meet at Valles Caldera's main entrance on NM State Route 4.

Self-guided Tour: Valles Caldera Auto Tour

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharingÂ......More

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharing interesting information about each stop.All park visitors are welcome to explore the park's front-country roads from NM-4 to the Cabin District. Beyond the Cabin District, vehicular access requires a backcountry pass reservation via www.recreation.gov. Passes are limited, so if you wish to complete the backcountry portion of the auto tour, please reserve your backcountry pass in advance.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

This self-guided driving tour begins at the Valle Grande overlooks along NM State Route 4.

Self-guided Tour: Cerro La Jara Geology Hike

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape ar......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape around you. What's the difference between a lava dome and a resurgent dome? Why is Valle Grande so flat? And what exactly is a caldera, anyway? This tour will answer all of the most common questions about the park's geology.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cerro La Jara Trailhead is located at the Valle Grande Entrance Station.

Self-guided Tour: Hemish Connections

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Histori......More

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Christopher Toya, traditional religious leader Brophy Toledo, and cultural resources leaders Byron Andrew and Mark Magdalena.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Self-guided Tour: A Day on the Ranch

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted her......More

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted here for nearly 100 years.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cabin District is located about 4 miles down the park entrance road from the main gate at NM-4.

Self-guided Tour: Sulphur Springs Geology Walk

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you m......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you may otherwise miss. CAUTION: Please watch your step and stay a safe distance from all features. The terrain at Sulphur Springs is rough, and there is currently no designated trail to follow through the geothermal area.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Start your tour at the Sulphur Creek Trailhead, located at Valles Caldera National Preserve's boundary gate on FR 105/Sulphur Creek Road.

Self-guided Tour: Valles Caldera Auto Tour

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharingÂ......More

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharing interesting information about each stop.All park visitors are welcome to explore the park's front-country roads from NM-4 to the Cabin District. Beyond the Cabin District, vehicular access requires a backcountry pass reservation via www.recreation.gov. Passes are limited, so if you wish to complete the backcountry portion of the auto tour, please reserve your backcountry pass in advance.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

This self-guided driving tour begins at the Valle Grande overlooks along NM State Route 4.

Self-guided Tour: Cerro La Jara Geology Hike

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape ar......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape around you. What's the difference between a lava dome and a resurgent dome? Why is Valle Grande so flat? And what exactly is a caldera, anyway? This tour will answer all of the most common questions about the park's geology.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cerro La Jara Trailhead is located at the Valle Grande Entrance Station.

Self-guided Tour: Hemish Connections

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Histori......More

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Christopher Toya, traditional religious leader Brophy Toledo, and cultural resources leaders Byron Andrew and Mark Magdalena.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Self-guided Tour: A Day on the Ranch

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted her......More

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted here for nearly 100 years.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cabin District is located about 4 miles down the park entrance road from the main gate at NM-4.

Self-guided Tour: Sulphur Springs Geology Walk

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you m......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you may otherwise miss. CAUTION: Please watch your step and stay a safe distance from all features. The terrain at Sulphur Springs is rough, and there is currently no designated trail to follow through the geothermal area.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Start your tour at the Sulphur Creek Trailhead, located at Valles Caldera National Preserve's boundary gate on FR 105/Sulphur Creek Road.

Self-guided Tour: Valles Caldera Auto Tour

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharingÂ......More

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharing interesting information about each stop.All park visitors are welcome to explore the park's front-country roads from NM-4 to the Cabin District. Beyond the Cabin District, vehicular access requires a backcountry pass reservation via www.recreation.gov. Passes are limited, so if you wish to complete the backcountry portion of the auto tour, please reserve your backcountry pass in advance.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

This self-guided driving tour begins at the Valle Grande overlooks along NM State Route 4.

Self-guided Tour: Cerro La Jara Geology Hike

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape ar......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape around you. What's the difference between a lava dome and a resurgent dome? Why is Valle Grande so flat? And what exactly is a caldera, anyway? This tour will answer all of the most common questions about the park's geology.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cerro La Jara Trailhead is located at the Valle Grande Entrance Station.

Self-guided Tour: Hemish Connections

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Histori......More

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Christopher Toya, traditional religious leader Brophy Toledo, and cultural resources leaders Byron Andrew and Mark Magdalena.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Self-guided Tour: A Day on the Ranch

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted her......More

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted here for nearly 100 years.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cabin District is located about 4 miles down the park entrance road from the main gate at NM-4.

Self-guided Tour: Sulphur Springs Geology Walk

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you m......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you may otherwise miss. CAUTION: Please watch your step and stay a safe distance from all features. The terrain at Sulphur Springs is rough, and there is currently no designated trail to follow through the geothermal area.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Start your tour at the Sulphur Creek Trailhead, located at Valles Caldera National Preserve's boundary gate on FR 105/Sulphur Creek Road.

Self-guided Tour: Valles Caldera Auto Tour

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharingÂ......More

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharing interesting information about each stop.All park visitors are welcome to explore the park's front-country roads from NM-4 to the Cabin District. Beyond the Cabin District, vehicular access requires a backcountry pass reservation via www.recreation.gov. Passes are limited, so if you wish to complete the backcountry portion of the auto tour, please reserve your backcountry pass in advance.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

This self-guided driving tour begins at the Valle Grande overlooks along NM State Route 4.

Self-guided Tour: Cerro La Jara Geology Hike

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape ar......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape around you. What's the difference between a lava dome and a resurgent dome? Why is Valle Grande so flat? And what exactly is a caldera, anyway? This tour will answer all of the most common questions about the park's geology.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cerro La Jara Trailhead is located at the Valle Grande Entrance Station.

Self-guided Tour: Hemish Connections

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Histori......More

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Christopher Toya, traditional religious leader Brophy Toledo, and cultural resources leaders Byron Andrew and Mark Magdalena.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Self-guided Tour: A Day on the Ranch

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted her......More

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted here for nearly 100 years.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cabin District is located about 4 miles down the park entrance road from the main gate at NM-4.

Self-guided Tour: Sulphur Springs Geology Walk

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you m......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers to Sulphur Springs, a unique geothermal area at Valles Caldera National Preserve. As you hike, refer to your smartphone for recommended stops at mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs that you may otherwise miss. CAUTION: Please watch your step and stay a safe distance from all features. The terrain at Sulphur Springs is rough, and there is currently no designated trail to follow through the geothermal area.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Start your tour at the Sulphur Creek Trailhead, located at Valles Caldera National Preserve's boundary gate on FR 105/Sulphur Creek Road.

Backcountry Vehicle Route Open

From May 15 through November 15, park visitors with a valid pass may drive along the backcountry vehicle route. This route takes you from Valle Grande through the heart of the caldera and up into Valle Toledo and Valle San Antonio in the north part of the park.Backco......More

From May 15 through November 15, park visitors with a valid pass may drive along the backcountry vehicle route. This route takes you from Valle Grande through the heart of the caldera and up into Valle Toledo and Valle San Antonio in the north part of the park.Backcountry Vehicle PassA backcountry vehicle pass is required to drive into the backcountry. We provide 40 passes every day from May 15 through November 15. Reservations for 35 of the passes are available on Valles Caldera's Recreation.gov page. The remaining 5 passes are available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Entrance Station. These passes will be available starting at 10 am each day.Each vehicle that travels into the backcountry is required to have a pass.

The backcountry vehicle route begins in the Cabin District.

Self-guided Tour: Valles Caldera Auto Tour

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharingÂ......More

This self-guided driving tour leads visitors through Valles Caldera National Preserve's front-country and backcountry road system. As you go, your smartphone will recommend various stops at photo locations, geologic features, and historic structures, all while sharing interesting information about each stop.All park visitors are welcome to explore the park's front-country roads from NM-4 to the Cabin District. Beyond the Cabin District, vehicular access requires a backcountry pass reservation via www.recreation.gov. Passes are limited, so if you wish to complete the backcountry portion of the auto tour, please reserve your backcountry pass in advance.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

This self-guided driving tour begins at the Valle Grande overlooks along NM State Route 4.

Self-guided Tour: Cerro La Jara Geology Hike

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape ar......More

This self-guided tour in the National Park Service smartphone app leads hikers around Cerro La Jara, which is Valles Caldera's youngest and smallest lava dome. As you hike, geologist Dr. Linda Pickett will share snippets of fascinating information about the landscape around you. What's the difference between a lava dome and a resurgent dome? Why is Valle Grande so flat? And what exactly is a caldera, anyway? This tour will answer all of the most common questions about the park's geology.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cerro La Jara Trailhead is located at the Valle Grande Entrance Station.

Self-guided Tour: Hemish Connections

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Histori......More

Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Christopher Toya, traditional religious leader Brophy Toledo, and cultural resources leaders Byron Andrew and Mark Magdalena.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

Self-guided Tour: A Day on the Ranch

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted her......More

The Cabin District stands as a reminder of the ranching legacy at Valles Caldera. This guided audio tour walks through a day in the life of a ranch worker, stopping by each historic structure and explaining its significance to the ranching operation that persisted here for nearly 100 years.Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service).

The Cabin District is located about 4 miles down the park entrance road from the main gate at NM-4.