Stop 1: Entrance Plaza

A view of Valle Grande from the entrance plaza.

NPS/Corey Lycopolus

Quick Facts

Amenities

6 listed

Information Kiosk/Bulletin Board, Parking - Auto, Parking - Bus/RV, Pets Allowed, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Wheelchair Accessible

Welcome to Valles Caldera National Preserve! 

It is important to acknowledge that the names we will explore during this tour are Spanish in origin. Most of the historical origins emerge after the Spanish conquest of New Mexico in the 16th century. While we still use these names today, these are not the first names given to these locations. These locations were (and still are) known by other names, and the names we will explore during today's tour are fairly new identification marks. If you are curious to learn about Indigenous place names and history, check out our other self-guided tour offerings in the NPS app!

Before we begin, it is important to define some terms you will hear consistently along this tour. Have you ever stopped to think about what “Valles Caldera” means? 

When we break it down, this name comes from two Spanish words. First, let’s begin by translating “Valles.” Valles is simply the Spanish word for "valleys." Now, let us define the word “caldera.” You might know this word as a geographical term that refers to a land depression formed when a volcano erupts and collapses. But where does this word come from? Reading "Caldera" in Spanish can enrich our understanding of the term. Caldera in Spanish translates to cauldron or “boiling pot.” Interesting, right? Now think about what this means! Right now you are standing in a location that is rich with geothermal activity..."A Boiling Valley."

Now, let us define some other terms. You will notice as you drive that most of the locations in Valles Caldera National Preserve are named “cerros.” Cerro is the Spanish word for "hill" or "peak." It refers to elevated land that is isolated from other hills and is characterized by being slightly smaller than a mountain. While we are looking at hills, it is important to remember that the cerros we are looking at in Valles Caldera are actually lava domes! 

Another term you will be hearing today is “Rito.” Rito is a term that describes a small river or stream. This term is common in New Mexico as it is a co-mingling of Spanish and English terms for small streams. The term is vague and can refer to a stream of any size or dimension that is smaller than a river. 

Now let’s begin the tour!