Over the last 20 million years a series of volcanoes has created what is basically a shield volcano just west of Santa Fe. We call it the Jemez Mountain. The lava piled up over a mile high and covers an area of 20 to 40 miles across.
Then 1.8 million years ago, and again 1.2 million years ago, the volcano exploded, covering the surrounding area with 800 feet of multi-colored ash and left a 14 mile wide crater at the top. Over the last million years additional eruptions have partially filled in the crater with resurgent volcanoes and now the crater is a series of marshy valley meadows amid a series of tree covered hills surrounded by the crater walls up to 2000 feet high.
The land was originally part of the Baca Ranch, one of the largest ranches in North America. About 20 years ago it was given for public use and over the years has risen thru the hierarchy of public lands to reach the lofty position of National Park.
If you are in the area and want to spend a peaceful day, take a trip to Valles Caldera.
One piece of advice: use a rental car for the visit.
The area has been used for many films. Here is the decaying set from The Buffalo Girls.
People (well, some people) often say "Hey Paul ... nice pictures but how come there are never any pictures of you?"
Well, this is why.
Here is an almost decent picture of me but there is something wrong with it ... can't quite put my finger on the problem
And to finish strong, my favorite snapshot
