Creede Caldera

Let your rock hound run free among the fossil and mineral formations found in the Creede Caldera. Intensely volcanic millions of years ago, the Creede area contains many sites where you can explore the fossil remains of ancient volcanic lakes and look for mineral samples that were created in the furnaces of the caldera. There are many excellent viewing places throughout the area to entice the intrepid mineral buff. For more casual travelers, four such sites, including the astounding Clear Creek Falls, are accessible by car and are interpreted by Forest Service and Geological Society pamphlets available at museums and visitor centers.