We explored Bandelier National Monument in early June and the weather combined with the small number of people at the monument was perfect. It is about an hour drive from Santa Fe on Hwy 285 to State Highway 502 to State Highway 4. Such an enjoyable drive with scenic views. We only had a day to explore the area so I grouped 3 hikes together for us to do but there are so many other long day hikes and a rafting trip on the Rio Grande that I would really like to return and experience. The 3 hikes were enjoyable and challenging being unique to Bandelier. If you plan to visit during the summer, be prepared for limited parking so shuttle services is available if you visit the park during peak seasons (May-August).
The hikes we chose offered such a unique experience. We toured through ancient Pueblo dwellings and were able to explore inside some of the cavates (small human-carved alcoves). We climbed ladders and crossed bridges and appreciated those who came before us. We scouted out petroglyphs scattered throughout the dwellings and were in awe of the majestic redwood trees and terrain around us. It was worth our time!
We started at the Main Pueblo Loop Trail which is a paved 1.4 mile loop trail. I planned to get us there at 9 am because I wanted to enjoy the hike before it got crowded. This loop is the most popular trail because of all the archeological sites, such as the Long House, Big Kiva, and Talus house. It was an easy trail but does require climbing stairs and ladders to see the cavates. We decided to hike the extra mile to visit the Alcove House. This hike has 4 long ladders and stone stairs and can get bottlenecked at times. I personally wouldn’t recommend it for anyone with children because there are drop off and ladders. But it was worth the effort as you walk through a beautiful redwood forest and can see where floods have occurred through that canyon. The Alcove House was exciting to see and to overlook the views around it.
Our second hike was Falls Trail which is about 1.5 miles to the Upper Falls from Backpackers Parking Lot. This trail also has steep drop offs but is worth the many beautiful views. We seeing enjoyed the canyon walls, walking next to the creek and the wildlife. But the view of the falls at the end of the trail and the site where you overlook the Rio Grande flowing in the valley below was worth the effort. I have one more amazing hike to tell you about but you will have to wait for my next blog because it was our favorite!
