Hike Valles Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico - June 12-16 (Wednesday - Sunday)

This immense caldera of an ancient volcano became part of the U.S. National Parks system in 2014. Overnight camping isn’t yet allowed, but a few visitors are permitted daily entry to hike, fish, and explore the sights. Dallas Sierra Club explored the VCNP in May 2023. We’re excited to return in June 2024 for day hikes on three consecutive days. If you enjoy day hikes of six to nine miles (four to seven hours) in mountain meadows and forests, cool summer temperatures, and being among few humans in a beautiful natural environment, this is a trip for you!

The Dallas Sierra Club has reserved a group campsite at Juniper Campground in Bandelier National Monument for camping on each night of this outing. The camp has potable water and flush toilets. We’ll drive each day from our camp to our trailheads and return to the same camp each afternoon. Trails are easy to moderate, although elevations from 8,000 to 9,500 feet add a modest challenge relative to hiking in North Texas. 

Registration and details of this outing of serial day hikes will be available by early April. Until then, HOLD THE DATES and view the National Park Service’s Valles Caldera National Preserve website or contact me for preliminary information and questions. Plan to arrive at Juniper Campground by Wednesday evening, June 12 and depart for home on Saturday afternoon, June 15 or the next morning.  Trip rated: Moderate. Leader: Mark Stein. Send Email 214-789-4596