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. We will walk the mile-long
official trail of the recreational area that is wheelchair and stroller friendly. We will cover the
evolutionary and ecological significance of the area, especially winter adaptations of life in our region
of the Northern Chihuahuan Desert. This unique site that best exemplify the extreme adaptations
required to live in our dynamic desert.
The tour along their main nature trail (Lava Flow Nature Trail) will be right after the meeting near the
visitor center where there is their main parking area. The trail is handicap accessible. There are
other trails available for your own exploration and hiking level after our tour, but keep in mind the
area is full of sharp rocks and plants that require caution.
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.
Learning Goals for the field trip:
Focus on learning what winter adaptations life uses during this extreme season that is experienced and unique to this region of the Northern Chihuahuan Desert.
Make ecological connections between the Valley of Fires and nearby White Sands.
Understanding 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 each other.
Meet at the group shelter at the Lava Flow Trail which is four miles west of the town of Carrizozo on highway US 380 (map). The start time of the event is 10:00 AM so if you are driving from El Paso, please give yourself 2 to 2.5 hours to arrive on time. If you are driving 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 person in a vehicle. CASH ONLY!
Trip Leaders are William Lukefahr, M.S. and Gabriela Franco, M.S.
For more information contact William Lukefahr wlukefahr@gmail.com