Valles Caldera National Preserve
Tour the world’s most perfect volcanic caldera and learn about its history & geology
The Valles Caldera is a 13.7 mile wide volcanic caldera (or crater) in the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico. Hot springs, fumaroles, natural gas seeps, volcanic domes, trout-filled streams, and conifer forests dot the landscape.
Spend a day learning the history and science of this natural wonder.Take a trip back to prehistoric times as we learn about the region’s fascinating geology. In addition to its breathtaking beauty, the Caldera, which has been a national preserve since 2000, has a rich and complex history. We’ll learn about its past as a working cattle ranch, logging operation, and modern movie set, as well as the current effects of climate change. Our tour of the numerous sites within the caldera will be via SUV.
A delicious picnic lunch will be served in the History Grove, a remaining stand of old growth forest in the 89,000 acre preserve.
Saturday, August 20
9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Limited to 40 guests – $85/person
(must be over 15 and able to navigate rocky terrain)
Location: Jemez, NM
Sponsor: Elva Busch
Host: Dr. Bob Parmenter, Director of Science Services, Valles Caldera National Preserve
A full event will raise funds for 500 Kitchen Angel client meals!