This article provides an overview of the Bandelier National Monument and the surrounding area along with useful links to other websites for additional travel related information.

At a Glance

Bandelier National Monument, located in north central New Mexico, is home to one of the largest concentrations of Ancestral Pueblo archaeological sites in the American Southwest. In fact, there is evidence of people living in this area for more than 11,000 years. In addition to the Ancestral Pueblo Peoples, this area is the traditional land of many past and current tribal nations.

BANDELIER NATIONAL MONUMENT WEATHER

Most visitors spend a day in the main area of the monument going to the visitor center, doing the Pueblo Loop Trail and climbing up to the Alcove House if they are adventurous. If you had two or three days you could add in the Falls Trail, the Tyuonyi Overlook Trail or a visit to the Tsankawi area of the monument or any of the nearby attractions.

*Inside a few of the cavates (small human-carved alcoves in the rocks) in Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico.*

Popular Activities

Camping, hiking, exploring the ruins and learning about the Ancestral Pueblo Peoples (also known as the Anasazi) are popular activities here. There are 70 miles of hiking trails within the monument that range from a short 1.4 mile (2.25 km) loop to overnight back country trips in the Bandelier Wilderness.

The most popular hike is the 1.4 mile (2.25 km) Pueblo Loop Trail that starts at the visitor center and goes through excavated archeological sites in Frijoles Canyon. This hike takes you past a number of cavates (small human-carved alcoves), houses and the Big Kiva. There are wooden ladders along the way, which allow you to climb into some of the cavates and houses.

*Cavates (small human-carved alcoves) in the rocks that can be accessed via wooden ladders in Bandelier National Monument.*

Halfway through the Pueblo Loop hike you can decide to extent it by 1 mile (1.6 km) to visit the Alcove House (formerly known as Ceremonial Cave). This house is located 140 feet (43 meters) above the Frijoles Canyon floor. To reach the house you must climb 4 wooden ladders and a number of stone stairs, but the it is worth it for the views and to see the restored Kiva.

*Alcove House is 140 feet above the Frijoles Canyon floor and is reached by climbing 4 wooden ladders and a number of stone stairs.*

*Climbing one of the four ladders up to the Alcove House in Bandelier National Monument.*

The Frey Trail, which is 1.5 miles (2.4 km) one way with 550 feet (168 meters) of elevation change, connects the Juniper campground on top of the mesa to the visitor center in the Frijoles Canyon. We stayed in the campground and hiked this trail down into canyon with our children, who were 6 and 9 at the time. After spending the day exploring the Pueblo Loop Trail and the Alcove House we took the free shuttle bus back to the campground.

*Hiking along the rim of the mesa on the Frey Trail in Bandelier National Monument.*

Getting There

By Air

Albuquerque International Airport (ABQ), also known as Support, is the closest major international airport and is centrally located providing great access to all of New Mexico.

By Car

Bandelier National Monument is located just north of Interstate 25, which connects Albuquerque to Colorado Springs to the north and San Antonio to the south. It is just under two hours from Albuquerque, just under an hour from Santa Fe and about a half hour from Los Alamos.

Where to Stay

Lodging

There is no lodging within Bandelier National Monument. The nearest lodging is located in Los Alamos / White Rock, Espinosa and Santa Fe, however it is also possible to stay in Albuquerque or Taos and drive here as well.

Camping

The Juniper campground is located within Bandolier and has 53 individual sites that are open to tents, trailers and RVs (trailers and RVs up to 40 feet (12 meters) in length). In addition to the individual sites there are 4 group campsites, two in Juniper campground and two in Ponderosa campground. These campgrounds are open year-round, has seasonal staff on-site, restrooms, potable water and a dump station. There are no hook-ups, camp store, internet connectivity, showers, or laundry facilities available.

*Our campsite at Juniper Campground in Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico.*

There are a number of other campgrounds located near Santa Fe, White Rock, and around the Valles Caldera National Preserve.

Additional Resources

Official New Mexico Tourism Website

Recreation.gov Bandelier National Monument

Recreation.gov Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument

Nearby Attractions

Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument

Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument is located to the south of Bandelier National Monument and just under an hour’s drive west of Santa Fe. The main activity here is hiking and the two most popular are the Cave Loop Trail, which is 1.2 miles long and rated easy and the more difficult Canyon Trail, which is 1.5 mile (2.4 km) one-way through a slot canyon and 630 feet (192 meters) of elevation change. The second hike does reward you with excellent views of the Sanger de Cristo, Jemez and Sandia Mountains and the Rio Grande Valley as well as the amazing rock formations.

Valles Caldera National Preserve

Valles Caldera National Preserve is located in the Jemez Mountains and is comprised of 88,900 acres that encompasses almost all of a volcanic caldera created by a spectacular eruption that occurred about 1.2 million years ago. The caldera is dormant, but not extinct and still displays signs of volcanic activity. Popular activities here include scenic drives, hiking, mountain biking, hunting, fishing, back-country camping, horseback riding and wildlife photography.

Los Alamos

Los Alamos is most famous for its roll in the Manhattan Project and there is still a National Laboratory here. The main tourist sites here are the Oppenheimer House, Manhattan Project National Historical Park & Visitor Center, Los Alamos History Museum and Bradbury Science Museum.

Santa Fe

Nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe, New Mexico is a vibrant city where rich history, artistic expression, and natural beauty come together. Known as the oldest capital city in the United States, Santa Fe enchants visitors with its distinctive adobe architecture, thriving arts scene, and deep Native American and Spanish heritage. Wander through the historic Plaza, explore world-class galleries on Canyon Road, or soak in the breathtaking desert landscapes that surround the city. With its unique blend of culture, cuisine, and scenic charm, Santa Fe offers an unforgettable Southwestern experience.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a dynamic Southwestern city where ancient traditions meet modern flair. Set along the Rio Grande and framed by the Sandia Mountains, Albuquerque boasts stunning desert landscapes, rich Native American and Hispanic heritage, and a vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore historic Old Town, ride the world’s longest tramway to the top of Sandia Peak, and experience the awe-inspiring Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. With its mix of outdoor adventure, diverse cuisine, and year-round sunshine, Albuquerque offers a truly authentic and colorful New Mexican getaway.

Taos

Taos, New Mexico, is a captivating high-desert town renowned for its artistic spirit, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty. Nestled at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos is home to the centuries-old Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as a thriving arts community that has inspired creatives for generations. Visitors can stroll through charming galleries, hit the slopes at Taos Ski Valley, or explore the dramatic landscapes of the Rio Grande Gorge. With its unique blend of history, creativity, and adventure, Taos offers a truly unforgettable escape.