Last updated: April 23, 2025
Thing to Do
Take the Self-Guided Hemish Connections Audio Tour
NPS
Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Christopher Toya, traditional religious leader Brophy Toledo, and cultural resources leaders Byron Andrew and Mark Magdalena.
Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service). Tour takes 2-3 hours to complete.
Download the NPS smartphone app for free at The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service). Tour takes 2-3 hours to complete.
Details
Duration
2-3 Hours
Activity
Self-Guided Tours - Auto
Since the 1100s CE, Valles Caldera has been at the center of Hemish (Pueblo of Jemez) religion, culture, and history. During this self-guided tour, you will hear about the special connections between the Hemish people and the Valles Caldera landscape from Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Christopher Toya, traditional religious leader Brophy Toledo, and cultural resources leaders Byron Andrew and Mark Magdalena.
Pets Allowed
Yes with Restrictions
Pets are permitted in vehicles within the park's front-country. Beyond the Cabin District, pets are not permitted, even inside of vehicles.
Activity Fee
Yes
Park entrance fees apply.
Location
Park Entrance
This audio tour begins at the main entrance to Valles Caldera National Preserve, located near mile marker 39 on NM State Route 4.
Reservations
Yes
A backcountry vehicle pass is required to drive beyond the park's Cabin District. Reserve your pass up to three months in advance at Recreation.gov.
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Front-country stops on this auto tour are accessible year-round, but backcountry stops are only accessible by vehicle from May 15 - November 15 each year.
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
This self-guided auto tour is accessible to those with a private vehicle and a backcountry vehicle pass. The tour does not require walking or exiting the vehicle.