Ranger-led Activities

Two interpretive rangers at a local science event.

Your visit can be more enjoyable when you better understand the environment around you. Valles Caldera National Preserve offers educational field trips, guided hikes, guided snowshoe hikes, and ranger talks in various locations throughout the year.

Program schedules and types vary with the seasons. Valles Caldera offers the widest variety and number of interpretive ranger-led programs from mid-May through September and education programs during the school year. Ranger-led programs can be found on our calendar. When you arrive, check with staff at the Valle Grande Entrance Station for program details or schedule changes.

 

Guided Hikes and Snowshoe Hikes

Guided hikes are led by rangers or volunteers that have an in-depth knowledge of the preserve. In addition, each guided hike focuses on a different topic or theme. Some guided hikes are only offered once while others are offered more frequently. Please check the calendar for dates and times guided hikes are offered.

Education Programs and Field Trips

How would you like to have a a huge herd of elk, a million blooming wildflowers, a large collection of historic ranch buildings, and a world renown caldera as your classroom? You can have all of these and more when you use the preserve as your classroom to share the stories and science of Valles Caldera National Preserve. For more information, visit our Education page

 

Fly Fishing Clinics

2021 dates TBD

Volunteers from New Mexico Trout conduct fly fishing clinics giving up to 20 participants the opportunity to fish the waters of the preserve. Participants spend a half day learning about equipment, tackle, knots, stream insect sampling and identification. Participants will have time to practice their casting in the morning and then head for the stream in the afternoon. Bring a lunch to enjoy along the stream and be prepared for weather.

Pre-registration is preferred. Please email us with name, age, clinic date, email address and phone number of each participant. Parents/guardians must be prepared to transport participants to and from training location and stream.

 

Special Events

Fiesta en el Valle - 2021 date TBD

Get ready to experience the majesty of the Valles Caldera and learn a new skill at this free family-friendly event.