Bandelier National Monument

This past weekend we finally made it to Bandelier National Monument.  Located about 44 miles by road from Santa Fe, the main attractions are the ancestral dwellings and other things of archaeological significance left behind by the Puebloan people, that are located in Frijoles Canyon.

We started by walking along the Main Loop Trail, which runs along the right hand side of the canyon as you leave the visitors' center.  After a short distance you can climb some short sets of stairs and then some small ladders to check out some cavates, alcoves carved by the Puebloan peoples in the soft volcanic rock (Wikipedia).

One of these is large enough that, once inside, you can stand comfortably and look around.  Of note was the ceiling, still blackened by ancient campfires.

After crossing the creek that runs through the canyon, we headed up the Alcove House Trail, which goes up the canyon another half mile.    

At the end of the Alcove House Trail you can make the 140 foot climb to the Alcove House, via four wooden ladders and some stairs.  From the alcove there is a spectacular view of the canyon, and it's not hard to imagine that it would be difficult, if not impossible, for anyone to sneak up on the people who were living there.

The roundtrip from the visitor's center to the Alcove House and back is about 2.25 miles, and - with frequent stops to look around and take photos - took around 2.5 hours.  Definitely worth the time (and effort to get up the stairs to the Alcove House), time I would definitely spend again...

Nikon D7000, Nikkor 18-55 DX

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