National Preserve · New Mexico

Valles Caldera National Preserve

A 13-mile grassy supervolcano caldera

TypeNational Preserve
StateNew Mexico
Best seasonSummer & fall (elk rut)
Don’t missThe Valle Grande meadow

The grassy bowl of a collapsed supervolcano in the Jemez Mountains — a vast caldera of golden meadows, resurgent lava domes, and one of New Mexico’s great elk herds. Sunrise over the valle floor is unforgettable.

What to see

  • Valle Grande
  • Elk herds
  • Redondo Peak
  • Hot springs nearby
  • Backcountry trails

Build a trip around wild places like this.

Save catalog-backed stops to My Trips on the web now. The iOS beta is testing the on-road companion: verified check-ins, badges, shared trips, and your growing map of America.

No spam. Just beta timing and launch notes.

Find a place to stay near Valles Caldera National Preserve, New Mexico.

Hotels, cabins, and rentals close to the action — compare and book for your trip.

See places to stay

We may earn a commission from bookings made through this link — at no extra cost to you.

Things to do near Valles Caldera National Preserve

Browse guided tours and bookable activities that fit this stop.

See tours and experiences →

Book on Viator — Roamward earns a commission, at no extra cost to you.

More to explore in New Mexico

See everything in New Mexico