Groundwater

Come and experience an immersive simulation of the Valles Caldera eruption! Every hour on the half-hour, the Volcano Discovery Center "erupts" with a multisensory exhibit experience that showcases the past 1.2 million years of geologic history at Valles Caldera. Feel the rumble and quaking of the earth. Hear the explosive volcanic forces that created the 14-mile-wide caldera. Watch the lakes and lava domes appear. At the end of the show, bask in a newfound understanding of this unique landscape, and continue to learn and discover more by interacting with the immersive Valles Caldera exhibit. WARNING: This show includes loud explosion sound effects and flashing lights. For individuals with sensory sensitivities, we recommend visiting the Volcano Discovery Center after the show has concluded (at :35 past the hour). Ask a park ranger about how to experience a sensory-friendly version of the eruption show!

Join park rangers for an evening under the full moon learning about nocturnal ecology with a guided hike from the Cabin District to History Grove at Valles Caldera National Preserve.

Stop by the Volcano Discovery Center anytime between 8:30 and 11:00 am for a cup of coffee and conversation with Ranger Alex! This is an opportunity to ask questions, chat about National Park Service careers, and share your favorite memories of Valles Caldera. Join us!

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR, DSLR, Mirrorless, Mobile). The program will begin outside the Volcano Discovery Center at 9am and will carvan to trail location at 9:15am, with no exceptions.

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR, DSLR, Mirrorless, Mobile). The program will begin outside the Volcano Discovery Center at 9am and will carvan to trail location at 9:15am, with no exceptions.

A hike with a focus on wildlife photography principles and techniques covering the frontcountry of Valles Caldera National Preserve and the Jemez Mountains. The hiking portion will be between 1-4 miles depending on location for the day. All camera types are welcome (SLR, DSLR, Mirrorless, Mobile). The program will begin outside the Volcano Discovery Center at 10:00 am.

Join Valles Caldera Artist-in-Residence Paul Atkinson as he shares his approach to night sky landscape photography. Hear about his experiences making art under Valles Caldera National Preserve’s dark night skies, and learn about the growing threat of light pollution. This talk focuses on Paul’s personal journey in night photography and growing awareness of the negative effects of light pollution. He will share not only his artistic approach and philosophy, but also personal stories and experiences, all with his own photographic examples to show participants. He will discuss the park-specific challenges he faced and how that shapes his art. He will illustrate light pollution’s impact on his art and outline its harmful effects on the environment, wildlife, and our own health. He will close with simple steps participants can put into action at home to minimize their own light pollution footprint.

Learn the basics of photography and compositional recommendations using an instant film camera, all while exploring Valles Caldera. A camera and film will be provided, but exposures will be limited to 2 per person. If you want to take more than two photos, you can purchase your own film to use (Polaroid i-Type, color or black & white) and can bring your own instant film camera as well. The program is approximately 1 hour in duration. Spots are limited. Registration required.

With elk bugling during misty mornings and aspen leaves turning shades of gold, fall is a magical time in the Jemez Mountains. Come celebrate the season at the Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta. The 2026 event will run daily from Friday, September 25, through Sunday, September 27. Each day will have different ways for you to connect with this volcanic landscape. Events will be held in the Cabin District, which is located about 4 miles down the park's gravel entrance road. Activities will include: Live music Artisan village and educational booths Cultural demonstrations Guest speakers Eruption simulations every hour on the half hour in the Volcano Discovery Center Ranger programs Self-guided after-hours access of Valle Grande As activities are confirmed, details will be shared in the daily schedule on the Fall Fiesta webpage . We look forward to seeing you at Valles Caldera National Preserve! NOTE: Leashed and well-behaved pets are welcome at Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta. They may accompany their humans on the Cabin District Trail, in picnic areas, and at the artisan village. However, pets are not permitted inside of the Volcano Discovery Center or in the park's backcountry. Thank you for understanding!

Join Artist in Residence Julia Andreas for a guided demonstration and tutorial of the art of rug tufting! Participants will learn how to use a tufting gun and a punch needle and then will be invited to contribute to a collaborative rug inspired by Valles Caldera National Preserve. This program will begin with a short walk (about 30 minutes) through the Cabin District for grounding and inspiration. Julia will provide a brief explanation of the art form, the tufting gun vs. punch needle, and her own adventure getting into rug tufting. She will then demonstrate how to use the tufting gun and punch needle and invite participants to try it out.

Learn the basics of photography and compositional recommendations using an instant film camera, all while exploring Valles Caldera. A camera and film will be provided, but exposures will be limited to 2 per person. If you want to take more than two photos, you can purchase your own film to use (Polaroid i-Type, color or black & white) and can bring your own instant film camera as well. The program is approximately 1 hour in duration. Spots are limited. Registration required.

Learn the basics of photography and compositional recommendations using an instant film camera, all while exploring Valles Caldera. A camera and film will be provided, but exposures will be limited to 2 per person. If you want to take more than two photos, you can purchase your own film to use (Polaroid i-Type, color or black & white) and can bring your own instant film camera as well. The program is approximately 1 hour in duration. Spots are limited. Registration required.