We apologize. Regrettably, this field trip has been cancelled. We hope to re-schedule it for spring 2021.
Tour the valley of fires geological formation with a focus on the desert adaptations of plants and animals living in this extreme ecosystem during winter time conditions. You will first hike the mile-long official trail of the recreational area, then head off-trail down south until we have White Sands in view. We will cover the evolutionary and ecological significance of the two areas, especially winter adaptations of life in our region of the Northern Chihuahuan Desert at this unique site that best exemplify the extreme adaptations required to live in our dynamic desert.
The first part of the hike will be right after meeting near the visitor center where there is parking . The trail is handicap accessible. The second part of the hike is moderate to more difficult because it is winter, and you will be walking over loose and jagged rocks. This portion of the hike is roughly 4 to 6-miles long. There will be opportunity to have a sack lunch before returning to the parking lot.
Wear hiking boots with a good grip, wear a hat and sunglasses, bring plenty of water, a snack and a small lunch and wear warm clothes. You may also want to bring binoculars (unique season for birding), camera or smart phone, and magnifying glass. Be prepared for a slim chance of rain.
Bring a mask. Although you may not need it on the hike, you may want to wear it when the group gathers for any reason. Hikers naturally maintain social distance. Hand sanitizer will be available.
Learning goals for this field trip:
Focus on learning what winter adaptations life uses during this extreme season that is experienced that is unique to this region of the Northern Chihuahuan Desert.
Make ecological connections between the valley of fire and nearby White Sands.
Understand the geological differences and connections between the two ecozones.
Realize the evolutionary significance of the two areas and how they are prime research areas as well as being national treasures that are surprisingly close to one another.
Meet at the group shelter at the Malpais Nature Trail which is four miles west of the town of Carrizozo on highway US-380. (MAP) The start time of the event is 10 AM. So, if you are driving from El Paso, please give yourself 2 to 2.5-hours to get to the destination. From NE El Paso, use the directions HERE. Give yourself about 2 hours if you are traveling from Las Cruces. (MAP) There is a $3.00 fee for one person in a vehicle and $5.00 for 2 or more persons in a vehicle. Cash only.
“Valley of Fires recreation area is located immediately adjacent to the Malpais Lava Flow. Approximately 5,000 years ago, Little Black Peak erupted and flowed 44 miles into the Tularosa Basin, filling the basin with molten rock. The resulting lava flow is four to six miles wide, 160 feet thick and covers 125 square miles. The lava flow is considered to be one of the youngest lava flows in the continental United States.”
Your field trip leaders are William Lukefahr, M.S., and Dr. Eric Kappus. For more information, contact William Lukefahr wlukefahr@gmail.com or (915)540-6008.