Looking for a day trip that mixes incredible views with deep cultural history? Bandelier National Monument is just about a two-hour drive from UNM’s Main Campus! Located near Los Alamos, New Mexico, this protected area is known for its rugged canyons, sweeping mesas, and the ancient dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people—all set in rock formed by volcanic eruptions over a million years ago.

Bandelier National Monument sits on land shaped by a massive eruption from the Jemez Volcanic Field, which left behind thick layers of tuff—a soft, chalky rock made from volcanic ash. The Ancestral Pueblo people used this material to build their homes, carving rooms directly into the canyon walls. These cliffside rooms are called cavates, and you can still walk through many of them today.

From around 1100 to 1550 CE, the Ancestral Puebloan people made this place home. Modern archaeologists have identified over 3,000 sites across Bandelier’s 33,000 acres, each offering a glimpse into generations of their lives.

One of the most popular ways for visitors to explore the area is along the Pueblo Loop Trail. This accessible trail takes you past the remains of Tyuonyi, a once-massive circular village with over 400 rooms and two stories. You’ll also pass by the Big Kiva, a large ceremonial structure, and several cavates carved into the canyon walls. Along the trail, you’ll spot petroglyphs and pictographs, created centuries ago by the original inhabitants. 

Farther along, the Long House stretches along the base of the canyon wall, with beam holes marking where upper levels once stood. The nearby Talus House was reconstructed in the 1920s to give visitors a better idea of what these cliffside dwellings may have looked like. Bandelier also includes the Tsankawi unit, a quieter section of the monument with narrow, worn paths etched into the tuff by centuries of footsteps. Here, you can follow literal traces of the Ancestral Pueblo people and explore the remnants of a once-thriving village. 

For those craving a little more adventure, the Alcove House trail is a must. After climbing four wooden ladders and navigating a series of carved stone steps, you’ll reach a high alcove with panoramic views and the remains of a reconstructed kiva. It’s a challenging vertical climb of 140 feet, but the experience is unforgettable. 

Most trails take around 45 minutes to an hour to complete, making Bandelier a great day trip for curious hikers and history lovers alike. Just be sure to bring water, sturdy shoes, and sunscreen. Before you go, check the official Bandelier National Monument website for maps, weather alerts, and tips on how to make the most of your visit.

Learn more about Bandelier National Monument here.

Bandelier National Monument