Valles Caldera is a vast volcanic basin in northern New Mexico, a 13.7-mile-wide collapsed depression shaped by major eruptions about 1.61 million and 1.25 million years ago and later uplift that formed Redondo Peak. Hot springs, fumaroles, gas seeps, lava domes, and broad valleys show that volcanic activity still persists at depth. Its structure made it a model for understanding resurgent dome calderas, including Yellowstone. People have used the area for at least 11,000 years, from Native American hunting and obsidian gathering to later grazing, ranching, and logging. Federal protection came in 2000, and most of the caldera is now preserved for its scientific, ecological, and cultural importance.

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

La Cueva, New Mexico · USA