Bandelier National Monument in Los Alamos

Bandelier National Monument is a captivating destination in the heart of Los Alamos, New Mexico. It has been established to preserve and showcase the ancient Ancestral Puebloan civilization that flourished in the region between the 12th and 16th centuries AD. The monument covers an area of about 33,677 acres, and it features a diverse range of natural and cultural attractions that will leave any visitor awed.

Among the top things to do at Bandelier National Monument is walk through the man-made dwellings, known locally as cavates, that dot the canyon walls. The cavates are believed to have been hand-carved by the Ancestral Puebloan people using primitive tools, and they served as homes and ceremonial spaces for the community. Visitors can explore these spaces and learn about the daily life and religious practices of the ancient civilization that called Bandelier home.

Besides the cavates, visitors can also hike the several miles of trails that meander through the monument's rugged landscape. The trails range from easy one-hour walks to strenuous full-day hikes that take through backcountry areas. The hiking trails offer some of the best views of the Bandelier canyons and the surrounding rugged mountains.

The Bandelier National Monument also features a museum that provides visitors with additional information about the ancient civilization and its way of life. The museum features interactive exhibits and artifacts that bring the history of the Ancestral Puebloan to life, such as pottery and jewelry.