NPS/Corey Lycopolus Whether you prefer to be warm and cozy by the fire or outside playing in the snow, you will discover winter wonderment and fun at Valles Caldera Winter Fest! This event, which is geared toward children and families, takes place Saturday, March 9, at the Ranger Station. Join us! Schedule of EventsVarious programs and activities will be taking place in and around the Ranger Station from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. In this interactive session, participants will obtain a deeper understanding of the fascinating winters at Valles Caldera by learning the science behind snowflake formation. Then, they will get the opportunity to turn newfound knowledge into art by creating their very own snowflakes. Join a park ranger for a guided winter ski tour of Valles Caldera National Preserve. Participants will awaken their senses to the sounds of nature and learn about the forest ecology of Valles Caldera. Space limited; registration will open 2 weeks in advance on the Ranger-led Activities webpage. Nestled amid a winter wonderland, children can gather around a cozy campfire to roast marshmallows as a ranger reads captivating tales about nature, wildlife, and conservation. Paired with a cup of hot cocoa, this unique reading session will foster a love for both literature and the great outdoors. With categories including best traditional snowman, largest snowman, and best snow creature, participants of all ages and skill levels will have the opportunity to showcase their creativity and ingenuity. Judging will take place at 12:00 pm. In this hands-on activity geared towards children K-12, participants will learn about the diverse wildlife that calls Valles Caldera home during the winter months. After a brief lesson on identifying animal tracks, participants will go on a guided walk and test their new skills. Children will then get the opportunity to return indoors and create their own animal tracks using recycled cardboard. Visit an artistic park ranger in the Ranger Station between 12:00 and 2:00 pm for customized facepainting! Choose from winter icons, wildlife, and other nature-themed art. Nestled amid a winter wonderland, children can gather around a cozy campfire to roast marshmallows as a ranger reads captivating tales about nature, wildlife, and conservation. Paired with a cup of hot cocoa, this unique reading session will foster a love for both literature and the great outdoors. Wildlife survive the harsh winters at Valles Caldera in different ways: adaptation, migration, or hibernation. After a short lesson on these winter survival methods, children will play a fun version of freeze tag to learn which method each animal uses. Self-guided OpportunitiesIn addition to the ranger-led programs and activities throughout the day, visitors may participate in self-guided, self-paced Winter Fest activities. This self-guided activity will offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystems and natural wonders of Valles Caldera while engaging in a fun and challenging adventure. Grab a scavenger hunt sheet at the Ranger Station, complete the challenge, and return your completed sheet to the Ranger Station for a special prize. Visitors are invited to explore Valles Caldera's expansive, snowy landscape at their own pace using snowshoes. Los Amigos de Valles Caldera will have equipment rentals available in the Entrance Station. The recommended self-guided route is the Cerro La Jara Loop, a 1.4-mile groomed trail around the base of a forested lava dome. Download the National Park Service smartphone app to take a self-guided audio tour of Valles Caldera's Cabin District. Learn about the ranch, the buildings, and the caretakers that preceded Valles Caldera National Preserve. |
Last updated: March 12, 2024