More than 800 years ago, Ancestral Pueblo people carved homes into the stone cliffs at Bandelier National Monument. They weren't the first inhabitants of the area; humans have been living in the canyons for more than 11,000 years. Today, you can explore these ancient cliff dwellings, climbing wooden ladders up sheer rock faces and entering into breezy stone homes. A 70-mile trail network takes you past petroglyphs and through historic farmlands, hunting routes, and trade paths, providing spectacular views from high-elevation resting points. Stick around after your visit; the surrounding region is packed with exciting outdoor adventures, historic sites, and spectacular scenery.
With its rugged canyons and tree-covered mountains, Bandelier National Monument is made for camping. When you have an RV, you can visit any time of year. Don't worry if you don't have a motorhome — RVshare makes it easy to rent an RV so you can enjoy wilderness camping and all of the comforts of home.
The cliff dwellings and Long House ruins are the star attractions at Bandelier National Monument. After you've climbed into these ancient homes and explored the remarkable rock art, head out onto the park's fantastic trail network to follow in the footsteps of the Ancestral Pueblo people. From July through September, you can join ranger-led hikes for a fascinating lesson about the local history and natural area.
Hiking TrailsThe Pueblo Loop Trail is the most popular hike in Bandelier National Monument. It packs a variety of exciting sites into a relatively short loop; climb wooden ladders into man-made caves, check out a round kiva made from stones, and survey the ruins of an ancient storehouse. The trail also passes the Talus House, a freestanding building that sits below a set of cliff dwellings. If you have time, add on the Alcove House Trail, which adds one mile to the journey. Here, you can climb four wooden ladders and stone stairs to reach homes located high on the cliff face.
Visitor Center 15 Entrance Rd, Los Alamos, NM 87544
1.4 Miles Round Trip
Moderate to Strenuous
The Tsankawi Trail requires a bit of a drive from the main Visitor Center, but it's worth the trip. You can take the same trails that the Ancestral Pueblo people used hundreds of years ago. In some sections, they're worn deep into the surface of the rocks. This hike is short, but it's not for the faint of heart; you'll need to climb wooden ladders, walk through narrow trenches, and hike along exposed cliff faces. The route passes by petroglyphs, ancient stone stairs, pottery shards, and cliff dwellings. Bring shoes with traction, and avoid hiking during thunderstorms.
White Rock, NM 87544
1.5 Miles Round Trip
Moderate to Strenuous
Set out early in the morning on the Painted Cave Trail; it takes you deep into the canyons and ends at a spectacular cave adorned with ancient artwork. From the Dome Trailhead, you can expect a 14.5-mile round-trip route. It's possible to camp in the backcountry with a permit, but it's also a long day hike for experienced hikers. The trail offers breathtaking scenic views and minimal crowding, so it's a great way to enjoy the stillness and solitude of the New Mexico mountains.
Dome Trailhead
14.5 Miles Round Trip
Strenuous
SightseeingAbout 12 miles from the visitor center, the Upper Frijoles Canyon Overlook offers beautiful views of the main canyon in the region. A 3-mile round-trip trail takes you to a beautiful viewing area; look out for signs of the Las Conchas fire, which ravaged the area in 2011.
Upper Frijoles Canyon parking area
MuseumsDuring World War II, the U.S. government created the Los Alamos National Laboratory as the home of the Manhattan Project. Today, you can visit the laboratory's Bradbury Science Museum to learn about the history of nuclear weapons and current scientific research. With 60 interactive exhibits, this is a fascinating stop for both kids and adults.
1350 Central Ave, Los Alamos, NM 87544
Nearby Shops and RestaurantsIf you're looking for a game to play in your RV, White Rock Toys and Gaming has you covered. It offers a wide range of classic and new games to satisfy every type of player.
108 Longview Dr., White Rock, NM 87547
Hunt for treasures at Seeking Chameleon, an antique store with a delightfully eclectic selection. Allow plenty of time to explore; you'll need it to browse the wide variety of items on offer.
35 Rover Blvd, White Rock, NM 87547
If you're driving to Bandelier National Monument from the west, the Los Alamos Cooperative Market is an excellent spot to shop for groceries. Known for its exceptional produce and natural foods, it offers a wide selection of edible necessities and treats.
95 Entrada Dr., Los Alamos, NM 87544
Run by an award-winning chef, Pig + Fig Cafe serves gourmet comfort food in an upscale-casual environment. Sit in the industrial-inspired dining room, or enjoy the breeze on the outdoor table as you dig into dishes like wild mushroom quiche, the Hot Pig + Fig ham and brie sandwich, or the Pig Mac pasta with candied bacon.
11 Sherwood Blvd, White Rock, NM 87547
Tacos are only part of the menu at El Rigoberto's Tacos; you can also order Mexican favorites such as burritos, carne asada, and enchiladas. If you're in the mood for something different, try the Sonoran-style hot dog, which comes bacon-wrapped and smothered in beans and pico de gallo.
25 Bonnie View Dr., White Rock, NM 87547
Tuck into a huge, build-your-own burger and a pint of craft beer at Pajarito Brewpub and Grill. Check the schedule; you might be able to catch one of the restaurant's famous karaoke or trivia nights.
614 Trinity Dr., Los Alamos, NM 87544
Bandelier National Monument sits just south of NM-4 and about 45 miles west of Santa Fe. From Santa Fe, take Highway 84 north, and turn west on NM-502 at Pojoaque. Turn south on NM-4, and drive until you reach the park road.
15 Entrance Road, Los Alamos, NM 87544
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Vehicle) $25.0
Fee per vehicle with 1-15 individuals inside.
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Motorcycle) $20.0
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Person) $12.0
Per person on foot, bicycle, or in a vehicle holding 16+ individuals.
Bandelier National Monument offers the opportunity to step back in time. As you explore the ancient homes and paths of the Ancestral Pueblo people, it's easy to imagine their remarkable way of life. Keep the fun going by camping at or near the monument; when you bring an RV, it's a breeze to enjoy the natural beauty year round.
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