Valles Caldera National Preserve: An Unexpected Gem in New Mexico

Let me tell ya about a place we had as a backup option to visit that should have been one of our first picks! (Save this post for your trip to New Mexico!) Valles Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico! Tucked away in the Jemez Mountains is this 13 mile caldera which also happens to be one of the largest “young” calderas in the world at a solid 1 million years old! 😱 There are loads of things to do in and around this preserve, including: 🥾Day hiking, either with a permit or around the preserve 🏚Grabbing a permit from the rangers and checking out the old cabins☝🏻where 16+ movies and tv shows have been filmed 🌋Backcountry exploring of the volcano 🐴Horseback riding 🚵‍♀️Mountain biking 🌌Astrophotography (check out the milkyway photo on my page for tips!) or simply stargazing in some of northern New Mexico’s darkest skies And on top of alllll of that this area is BEAUTIFUL! I could have sat out there all day in the sunshine soaking up the views! If you’re going to visit New Mexico, I highly recommend making this stop a part of your trip. And there are loads of hot springs close by to enjoy to 💦 Where is one place you didn’t plan on visiting but are so glad you did? 📸 @wallflowerink_ & @currentlycolorado