Bandelier National Monument is a protected area located in northern New Mexico, United States. The park preserves over 33,000 acres of rugged wilderness, including deep canyons, towering mesas, and fascinating rock formations. The highlight of the park, however, is its incredible collection of ancient Native American cliff dwellings and petroglyphs, which date back over 10,000 years.
Visitors to Bandelier National Monument can explore the park’s many hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and lead to numerous archaeological sites. Among the most popular hikes is the Main Loop Trail, which takes visitors through the heart of the monument and past several of the most impressive cliff dwellings, including the iconic Alcove House.
In addition to hiking, the park also offers opportunities for camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Birdwatchers in particular will delight in the park’s diverse bird population, which includes species such as the golden eagle, peregrine falcon, and western tanager.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply getting away from it all, Bandelier National Monument is a must-see destination for anyone visiting northern New Mexico.
