Valles Caldera National Preserve

The 89,000-acre Valles Caldera National Preserve encompasses meadows, forests, and hot springs within the volcanic formation of the Jemez Mountains at elevations from 8,600 to 11,000 feet.

The land transformed from a private ranch to a national preserve in July 2000, marking a shift toward public conservation and environmental protection.

Native American tribes maintain connections to this land, which holds significance in their traditional practices and historical narratives.

Summer night sky programs require visitors to bring camp chairs, red-mode lighting devices, and warm clothing layers due to temperature changes at high elevation.

The volcanic caldera formed through an eruption one million years ago contains geological formations that support distinct mountain ecosystems and wildlife populations.

Location: Rio Arriba County

Location: Sandoval County

Inception: July 25, 2000

Website: https://www.nps.gov/vall/index.htm

Website: https://nps.gov/vall

GPS coordinates: 35.86667,-106.56667

Latest update: August 1, 2025 08:13