Want to learn more about Valles Caldera's geology, history, wildlife, and more? We invite you to participate in a ranger program or special event during your visit! Valles Caldera National Preserve offers engaging programs all year-round. Check out upcoming offerings by visiting our Calendar of Events!
Upcoming Events & Programs
The Valles Caldera Eruption Experience
Dates: Daily, year-round
Times: Hourly, on the half-hour
Location: Volcano Discovery Center
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!
Stars Above the Caldera
Dates: June 12-13, 2026
Time: 4:00 - 11:00 pm
Location: Cabin District
Please join us for Valles Caldera National Preserve's annual night sky festival, Stars Above the Caldera, on June 12-13!
This year's festival, which will feature guest speakers, cultural demonstrators, ranger-guided programs, night sky viewing, and a silent disco, will take place during the new moon to optimize the dark sky experience for park visitors. Visit the link above for more information, including a schedule of events.
Registration required. Visit the Calendar listing for more information.
Family Fly Fishing Clinic
Dates: June 13 & 27, July 11, August 1
Time: All day
Location: Meet at the Volcano Discovery Center
Join Valles Caldera National Preserve and New Mexico Trout to discover fly fishing! In the morning, participants will discover what fly fishing is all about, including reading the water, appropriate equipment, insect life, and fly casting. In the afternoon, after lunch, participants will head out to San Antonio Creek for a guided fly-fishing experience and the chance to catch a beautiful wild brown trout.
Thanks to a grant from the National Park Foundation, this event is free and all equipment will be provided. This program is open to 15 participants ages 7 and up. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Registration required. Visit the Calendar listing for more information.
Tenkara Fly Fishing Clinic
Dates: June 5 & 20, July 17, August 21
Time: All day
Location: Meet at the Volcano Discovery Center
Tenkara is an ancient Japanese form of fly fishing that is increasingly popular in the United States. Join Tenkara enthusiasts and experienced teachers in learning the art and technique of this exciting sport that is perfect for Valles Caldera's creeks. The morning will have a brief classroom session with casting practice. Then participants will enjoy a guided fishing experience on Valles Caldera's famous waters and a chance to catch a wild brown trout.
Thanks to a grant from the National Park Foundation, this event is free and all equipment will be provided. This program is open to 15 participants ages 7 and up. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Registration required. Visit the Calendar listing for more information.
Astrophotography Workshop
Dates: May 22 & 29, July 31, August 14
Time: Varies
Location: Volcano Discovery Center
With Valles Caldera National Preserve (an International Dark Sky Park) as an outdoor classroom, guest photographers will guide program participants through the basics of astrophotography. Learn how to adjust and optimize DSLR camera settings, select a shooting location, and, of course, shoot spectacular images of the night sky. Participants should bring:
- A camera that has manual mode and at least up to ISO 6400
- You can use multiple lenses, but we recommend your widest-angle lens (between 8mm-50mm and f-stop lower than 3.2)
- A sturdy tripod
- Extra memory cards and batteries
- Thumb drive
- Remote shutter control
- A headlamp or flashlight with red light
- Drinking water and snacks
- Sturdy footwear and warm clothing
We ask that program participants arrive with a basic understanding of how to operate their camera in the dark. If you're not experienced with shooting at night, your camera's instruction manual may come in handy. If you do not have a camera with Manual mode or cannot borrow one, we can work with the camera you have. You may not get the greatest images, but our main goal is for you to learn how to shoot at night and have fun!
Registration required. Visit the Calendar listing for more information.
Stargazing in the Caldera
Dates: May 15, July 17
Time: 8-11 pm
Location: Volcano Discovery Center
Join park rangers for an evening of stargazing in the Cabin District. Telescopes and star binoculars will be provided for program participants.
Registration required. Visit the Calendar listing for more information.
Moonlit History Grove Walk
Dates: June 26, August 28
Time: 8-11 pm
Location: Volcano Discovery Center
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.
Registration required. Visit the Calendar listing for more information.
Instant Film Photography
Dates: Every 3rd Sunday of the month
Time: 10:00 am
Location: Meet at the Volcano Discovery Center
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.
Registration required. Visit the Calendar listing for more information.
