If like many visitors you are based in Santa Fe only for a
couple of days, then many of the attractions of archeological significance in
New Mexico are going to be too far away. But if you still want to get into the
ancient history of the region after you have been seduced by the layers of
culture in Santa Fe, then Bandelier National Monument is well worth the visit.
Outside of Santa Fe (near Los Alamos) it is a wonderful place to see and spend
a few hours. Ancient Pueblo People built their homes into the side of the
mountains and used
the valley floor for farming and community activities. If you like a little history, a little geology, a nice riparian corridor full of birds, and a gorgeous bit of canyon country, we found this place to be a great spot to visit! The Main Loop Trail is relatively easy and definitely worth checking out. You can climb a steep staircase and up a ladder or two and get inside a cavate dwelling. JR and our friend Maria climbed the steep steps and ladders along the canyon wall ruins. Her husband Bruce and I held back on the trail to take pictures and cheer them on.
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| A kiva for sacred ceremonies |
