Overview

Bandelier National Monument preserves the homes and territories of Ancestral Puebloan peoples in the Jemez Mountains of New Mexico. It is named after Swiss-American anthropologist Adolph Bandelier who researched cultures of the area and lobbied for preservation of ancient sites. The peak residential period for Ancestral Puebloans at Bandelier was between 1100-1500 A.D. Ancestral Puebloans at Bandelier likely traded with Puebloans at Mesa Verde and Chaco Canyon.

The national monument was established in 1916, and the Civilian Conservation Corps built several improvements including the visitors center in the 1930s. The monument protects 50 square miles between Los Alamos and Valles Caldera, but most visitors spend their time in Frijoles Canyon.

Main Loop Trail

The Main Loop Trail (formerly known as the Pueblo Loop Trail) is a 1.4 mile loop trail through several archeological sites. The trail is best known for its three ladders that allow visitors to explorer “cavates,” which are small, human carved alcoves in the canyon wall.

The trail also passes ancient ruins built on the canyon floor like Big Kiva and Tyuoni or against the canyon wall like Long House or Talus House.

Alcove House

About halfway around the Main Loop Trail, hikers reach the Alcove House trailhead. The trail to Alcove House is about a half mile one way. Alcove House sits 140 feet above Frijoles Canyon. To reach it hikers must climb a series of four ladders. A sign at the base of the first ladder says this part of the journey is not suitable for hikers with a fear of heights. In our experience, the second and third ladders, which are taller and more exposed are the potentially scariest part of the journey to Alcove House.

Approximately twenty-five Ancestral Puebloans may have lived in Alcove House at any one time. Today, visitors can see their Kiva and some of the entrances to the rooms they lived in. Be sure to take in the view of Frijoles Canyon below before climbing back down the ladders.

Visiting nearby Manhattan Project National Historic Site? Check out our blog post on the dog-friendly walking tour of Los Alamos!

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