Valles Caldera National Preserve

San Antonio Cabin often housed cowboys when the preserve was privately-owned and operating as a ranch.
About 1.2 million years ago, a spectacular volcanic eruption created a 14-mile-wide circular depression in the earth now known as Valles Caldera. The preserve is known for its huge mountain meadows, abundant wildlife, and meandering streams. The area also preserves the homeland of ancestral native peoples and embraces a rich ranching history.
Map showing location of park.
A fre crew member walks near burning piles on a snow-covered mountain slope.
Valles Caldera Winter Prescribed Burns Beginning
The National Park Service is set to begin winter pile burning operations within the San Antonio Mountain project area of Valles Caldera National Preserve beginning on or shortly after December 2nd, 2025. If conditions are not favorable to begin burning in San Antonio, the team will switch to burning piles on either South Mountain or Cerro Piñon. The area around the burn activities will be closed to public access until operations are completed.
A crowd of people stand around a circular 3D map exhibit inside of a visitor center.
2025 Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta Coming October 4-12
From October 4 through 12, the National Park Service will host the 2025 Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta—a time to celebrate the rich natural beauty and cultural heritage of this volcanic landscape.
Smoke rises from burning grass in front of a few ponderosa pine trees.
Valles Caldera Approves New Fire Management Plan
The National Park Service (NPS) has approved a Finding of No Significant Impact for Valles Caldera National Preserve’s Fire Management Plan Environmental Assessment.
Scattered clouds over landscape view of winding river and brown grasslands
Photo by NPS Photo
A coyote walks across a frozen stream in a snowy valley.
Photo by NPS/Corey Lycopolus
San Antonio cabin under a mostly cloudy sky
Photo by NPS Photo
Two bull elk fighting.
Photo by NPS Photo / Dan Williams
A narrow stream meanders through a montane grassland.
Photo by NPS/Irene Owsley