This popular 33,000-acre landscape of dynamic canyons and mesas was home to mankind at least 11,000 years ago. Features include ancient petroglyphs, dwellings carved into soft rock cliffs and standing masonry walls.
The 1.5-mile main hiking trail (Main Loop) from the Visitor Center takes in Tyuonyi pueblo as well as Talus House and Long House cliff dwellings. Other hikes include Alcove House and Upper Falls.
The Tsankawi section of Bandelier National Monument is 12 miles from the main section of the park. At Tsankawi you can take a 1.5 mile walk along a mesa, viewing cavates, petroglyphs and the Ancestral Pueblo village of Tsankawi. Climbing ladders is a required activity at this site.
Bandelier National Monument - Frijoles Canyon.Talus House cliff dwelling.Inside a Talus House cliff dwelling.Inside a Talus House cliff dwelling.
View of Tyuonyi Pueble from Talus Houses.View of Tyuonyi Pueble from Talus Houses.Long House cliff dwelings and roomblock.Long House cliff dwelings and roomblock.
Ladder climb to Alcove House.Alcove House with restored kiva.Alcove House with restored kiva.Upper Falls.