Field Trips

A park ranger addresses a group of students and chaperones on a hiking trail.
Ranger Sierra leads a geology hike for a field trip group.

NPS

 
The Valles Caldera education team is excited to welcome you and your students to the park for a field trip! Depending on staff availability, we offer ranger-led and self-guided options. To schedule a field trip, please contact us at least 30 days in advance of your preferred program date(s). Learn more about our ranger-led program offerings in the menu below.

 

Ranger-led Program Offerings

These are our established, ranger-led education program offerings. In most cases, we can customize and adapt these programs based on each group's objectives. Contact us for more information.

 

Field Trip Checklist

Once your field trip is confirmed, the next step is to prepare your class for their Valles Caldera adventure. Our team is dedicated to providing an engaging and educational experience during your visit. To ensure each student is ready for their field trip, please review our suggested checklist and important information below.

Student Checklist

  1. Closed-toe shoes with a good grip
  2. Pants instead of shorts
  3. Rain jacket or coat
  4. Water bottle
  5. Snacks/Lunch
  6. Bug repellent
  7. Sunscreen
  8. Medications in case of emergency

Important Information

  • High elevation - Valles Caldera National Preserve is over 8,000 feet in elevation, so visitors coming from lower elevations may experience dehydration, severe sunburn, mountain sickness, and the aggravation of pre-existing medical conditions.
  • Mountain weather - A bright, sunny day can change abruptly with high winds and driving rain. All students should bring a rain jacket or coat in case of rain. Be prepared for changing conditions as we might need to adjust our programs.
  • All within protected - Everything at Valles Caldera National Preserve is protected by federal law. Collecting or damaging plants, rocks, artifacts, and wildlife is prohibited.
  • Terrain - There are many areas of the preserve with uneven terrain and prairie dog holes. Please ensure all students are wearing sturdy, close-toed shoes.
  • Water - There is no potable water in the preserve. Every student and adult are responsible for bringing enough water for the duration of their field trip. The Valles Caldera Bookstore sells water bottles for $1.
  • Wildlife - Approaching, feeding, or disturbing wildlife is dangerous. Keep a safe distance. All preserve animals are wild and can injure you. Be aware of what is going on around you. Know what to do if you encounter a mountain lion or bear. Plague is endemic to the preserve. The disease is transmitted by fleas and from infected animals. Remind students not to feed or approach ground squirrels, prairie dogs, or other small mammals.

Last updated: October 3, 2024

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

090 Villa Louis Martin Dr.
Jemez Springs, NM 87025

Phone:

505-670-1612
Ranger Station (for general park information)

Contact Us

Tools