Parks

About 1.2 million years ago, a spectacular volcanic eruption created a 14-mile-wide circular depression in the earth now known as Valles Caldera. The preserve is known for its huge mountain meadows, abundant wildlife, and meandering streams. The area also preserves the homeland of ancestral native peoples and embraces a rich ranching history.

Map showing location of park.

Orientation sign with the map of the park stands in front of an expansive view of a large alpine valley.

Valles Caldera Resuming Entrance Fees in 2025

2024-11-18

The National Park Service will resume the collection of park entrance fees at Valles Caldera National Preserve beginning January 1, 2025. Valles Caldera National Preserve will be able to retain 100 percent of the fees collected in the park for use on projects that directly benefit park visitors, including road, trail, and trailhead improvements. With this change, the NPS will also eliminate separate fees for fishing in the park. During a public comment period held this past summer, over two-thirds of comments supported reinstating the park entrance fee.

Valles Caldera Backcountry Vehicle Route Closed for the Season

2024-11-05

Valles Caldera National Preserve has closed the backcountry vehicle route early this year due to the recent snowstorm and the forecast for additional snow over the next few days. Normally, the route remains open through November 15. The vehicle route is slated to open again on May 15, 2025, weather-permitting.

Basketweaver showing some of his willow baskets to park visitors.

Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta Brings Thousands to the Jemez Mountains

2024-10-17

Nine days of special events and guest programming attracted more than 3,000 visitors to Valles Caldera National Preserve for its second annual Fall Fiesta, which occurred October 5-13, 2024.