Valle Grande

Headed west from Bandelier, after a light rain, I  came upon Valle Grande and a rainbow. Valle Grande is one of the world's largest volcanic calderas, which is a collapsed or imploded volcano. Nearly a million years ago, the Jemez volcano erupted so violently that it collapsed upon itself, leaving a 14 - 17 mile wide depression below the surrounding area. The photo shows the eastern portion of the caldera.

The Springs

North of Jemez Springs are some lesser known springs where nature rules. Two couples and two others were there for a hot air balloon festival the following week. I didn't think they'd appreciate my taking a picture of the springs what with them in their birthday suits, so I had to settle for this dimly-lit shot of the stream at the bottom of the trail (strange to dip your hand into a mountain stream and feel warm water).
Up above, two pools of 110 degree water flowing from a spring in a small "cave" in the rocks felt great after a long day of hiking.  After about an hour of relaxing in nature's hot tub, I headed out. 

Other Sites Along The Jemez Mountain Trail

BATTLESHIP ROCK -  great rock formation with trails to the top.
SODA DAM - interesting formation right along the road.
TOWN OF JEMEZ SPRINGS - rolled into this small town after dark and found the Los Ojos Restaurant and Saloon for a sandwich and a cold beer while listening to the jukebox and playing pool. Mostly locals and a few hikers, including the group from the hot springs.
 

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Bandelier National Monument

Tent Rocks National Monument