Valles Caldera National Preserve • New Mexico

Scattered clouds over landscape view of winding river and brown grasslands

A coyote walks across a frozen stream in a snowy valley.

San Antonio cabin under a mostly cloudy sky

Two bull elk fighting.

A narrow stream meanders through a montane grassland.

About 1.2 million years ago, a spectacular volcanic eruption created a 14-mile-wide circular depression in the earth now known as Valles Caldera. The preserve is known for its huge mountain meadows, abundant wildlife, and meandering streams. The area also preserves the homeland of ancestral native peoples and embraces a rich ranching history.

The views of Valles Caldera are some of nature's best
NPS Photo

A coyote crossing the frozen East Fork Jemez River
NPS/Corey Lycopolus

San Antonio Cabin often housed cowboys when the preserve was privately-owned and operating as a ranch.
NPS Photo

The fall elk rut is a big attraction for visitors to see bull elk sparing and to hear the bulls bugle.
NPS Photo / Dan Williams

The East Fork Jemez River overlook is one of the first places that visitors stop for photos.
NPS/Irene Owsley

A dramatic landscape painting of a mountainous landscape with white text reading

Caldera Reverie: Artistic Visions from a Volcanic Landscape features original artwork by 8 previous artists in residence at Valles Caldera.

A narrow stream meanders through a montane grassland

Park webcam, alerts, closures, and conditions to prepare for your visit.

Three smartphones on an orange background showing different views of the NPS app.

Hours of operation, fees and passes, and other essential park information for your visit.

Several photographers scattered across a grassy field with a cabin and the starry night sky overhead

Upcoming events, ranger programs, and important dates.

A flyfisherman casts into a narrow stream in a montane grassland.

Recreational activities, guided programs, and more!

A crowd gathers around a large, circular, 3D map of a caldera.

Talk to park rangers, visit the bookstore, and experience an immersive simulation of the Valles Caldera eruption!

Last updated: October 8, 2026

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

090 Villa Louis Martin Dr.
Jemez Springs, NM 87025

Phone:

505-670-1612

Contact Us

Tools

Stay Connected

Volcanoes, Craters & Lava Flows

Birds & Birding

Caves and Karst