Ranger-led Activities

 
Porch talk with Ranger James
Ranger James presents a porch talk with a view of Valle Grande.

NPS

Want to learn more about Valles Caldera's geology, history, wildlife, and more? We invite you to participate in a ranger program during your visit! Valles Caldera National Preserve offers daily guided hikes and ranger talks from June through October. Keep an eye on our Calendar of Events for upcoming programs!

Daily Guided Hikes

Thursday, June 1 - Sunday, October 1

10:00 am: Life of a Volcano

Join a ranger for a hike around Cerro la Jara to learn about the many wonders of this world-renowned volcano. Reservations recommended. Meet at the Entrance Station a few minutes before the start of the program. Bring water and snacks. Wear sturdy shoes. Two hours and about 1.5 miles (2.4 km).

1:00 pm: Home in the Caldera

Join a ranger for a tour of the Cabin District and History Grove to learn about why humans have been calling Valles Caldera home for more than 11,000 years. Reservations recommended. Meet at the Ranger Station a few minutes before the start of the program. Bring water and snacks. Wear sturdy shoes. Two hours and about 1.5 miles (2.4 km).

 

Flyfishing Clinics

Valles Caldera National Preserve and New Mexico Trout are partnering to offer free fishing clinics for youth, families, and adults this summer. Registration is required.

Saturday, June 10, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

This family fishing clinic is open to people of all ages who are new to flyfishing and would like to learn the basics. Clinic will include classroom instruction, casting practice, and an afternoon of fishing on Valles Caldera's streams. All participants ages 12 and over must have:

  • a valid NMDGF fishing license
  • a valid Valles Caldera annual fishing permit (permit fees will be waived for this event)
  • a Habitat Management and Access Validation (HMAV) stamp

For more information or to register: Family Fishing Clinic

Future Fishing Clinic Dates:

  • Saturday, July 1 - Youth Fishing Clinic
  • Saturday, July 22 - TBD
  • Saturday, August 12 - TBD
 

Moonlit La Jara Walk

Experience the dark side of Valles Caldera and join a ranger for a hike around Cerro la Jara to discover the nocturnal wonders of the park. Registration required. Meet at the park's main entrance 15-30 minutes before the start of the program. Bring water, snacks, and a red light. Wear sturdy shoes and warm clothing. Two hours and about 1.5 miles (2.4 km). Program will be cancelled if inclement weather is forecast.

  • June 2, 8 pm to 10 pm
  • June 30, 8 pm to 10 pm
  • July 28, 8 pm to 10 pm
  • September 1, 7 pm to 9 pm
  • September 29, 7 pm to 9 pm
  • October 27, 6 pm to 8 pm
 

Stargazing in the Caldera

Take in the majesty of the celestial sky and learn about the stars, constellations, and planetary bodies in this International Dark Sky Park. Registration required. Meet at the park's main entrance 15-30 minutes before the start of the program. Bring water, snacks, a red light, telescope, and your own seating. Wear warm clothing. 1.5 hours. Program will be cancelled if inclement weather or cloud cover is forecast.

  • June 16, 8 to 9:30 pm
  • July 14, 8 to 9:30 pm
  • August 18, 8 to 9:30 pm
  • September 15, 7 to 8:30 pm
  • October 13, 7 to 8:30 pm
 

National Public Lands Day

Come support the park and spend a day volunteering and exploring beautiful Valles Caldera. Projects will be announced on Volunteer.gov in August.

  • September 23
 

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Want to experience more interpretive programs during your visit? Join park rangers at neighboring Bandelier National Monument, approximately 30 minutes east of Valles Caldera, on one of their summer programs! For more information about their offerings and dates, see their Interpretive Programs webpage.

Last updated: May 23, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 359
Jemez Springs, NM 87025

Phone:

575 829-4100 x3

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