NPS/Corey Lycopolus Discover winter wonderment and fun at Valles Caldera Winter Fest! This event, which is geared toward children and families, takes place Saturday, February 8, 2025, in the Cabin District. Bundle up and join us! Schedule of EventsVarious programs and activities will take place in the Cabin District from 11:00 am to 3:30 pm. Nestled amid a winter wonderland, children can gather around a cozy campfire to roast marshmallows as a ranger reads captivating tales about nature, wildlife, and conservation. Paired with a cup of hot cocoa, this unique reading session will foster a love for both literature and the great outdoors. In this interactive session, participants will obtain a deeper understanding of the fascinating winters at Valles Caldera by learning the science behind snowflake formation. Then, they will get the opportunity to turn newfound knowledge into art by creating their very own snowflakes. Observe and discover the finer details of Valles Caldera with a wintertime scavenger hunt! This self-guided activity pairs perfectly with a picnic lunch or a short walk near the Cabin District. Stop by the Winter Fest booth to grab your scavenger hunt sheet and get started. Join a park ranger for a guided hike to take in the sights and sounds of Valles Caldera National Preserve. Nestled amid a winter wonderland, children can gather around a cozy campfire to roast marshmallows as a ranger reads captivating tales about nature, wildlife, and conservation. Paired with a cup of hot cocoa, this unique reading session will foster a love for both literature and the great outdoors.
Wildlife survive the harsh winters at Valles Caldera in different ways: adaptation, migration, or hibernation. After a short lesson on these winter survival methods, children will play a fun version of freeze tag to learn which method each animal uses. Self-guided OpportunitiesIn addition to the ranger-led programs and activities throughout the day, visitors may participate in self-guided, self-paced Winter Fest activities. This self-guided activity is a great opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystems and natural wonders of Valles Caldera while engaging in a fun and challenging adventure. Grab a scavenger hunt sheet, complete the challenge, and return your completed sheet to a park ranger for a special prize. Visitors are invited to explore Valles Caldera's expansive, snowy landscape at their own pace using snowshoes. Los Amigos de Valles Caldera will have equipment rentals available in the Entrance Station. The recommended self-guided route is the Cerro La Jara Loop, a 1.4-mile groomed trail around the base of a forested lava dome. Download the National Park Service smartphone app to discover six self-guided tour options for Valles Caldera:
Hike the short interpretive trail through the Cabin District to learn about the historic ranch, the buildings, and the people who cared for this land before the National Park Service.
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Last updated: February 3, 2025