If you’ve always wanted to know what life was like for ancestral pueblo people in New Mexico, satisfy your curiosity by planning an outing to Bandelier National Monument. From 1150 CE through 1550 CE, this national park was home to pueblo people – nomads who settled in New Mexico because of its ideal climate and landscape for gathering food.

Due to an extreme drought, the ancestral pueblo people were forced to leave their home of 400 years. However, remnants of their community remains for visitors like you to explore. So, when you check out Bandelier National Monument, be prepared to be “wowed” by the impressive structures and tools built by the former habitants to provide shelter and gather food.

Bandelier National Monument is about an hour from Santa Fe and a 30-minute drive from Los Alamos.
flickr/Greg Gjerdingen
To reach the park, head to New Mexico 4 towards White Rock and follow the signs.
To begin your adventure, take the 1.2 mile Main Loop trail.
flickr/Greg Gjerdingen
Along the hike, you'll see lots of wildlife and stumble across some interesting views.
Aside from the Main Loop Trail, there's an additional mile-long hike that'll take you to the Alcove House.
flickr/mark byzewski

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The Alcove House was a community home for approximately 25 families.
flickr/Sarah Stierch
In this compound, check out the tools built by the ancestral pueblo people to help them thrive in their society.
One of the highlights for people visiting is climbing the ladders leading to man-made caves.
flickr/Jim Bowen
Remember to wear good hiking shoes and to bring a flashlight when you peek into the caves.
Imagine waking up to this scenery from the Alcove House every morning.
flickr/Drew Tarvin
Along with being transported back in time, take advantage of the hiking trails and stunning views of the steep cliffs throughout Bandelier National Monument.
flickr/Mike Lewinski

To plan your time travel adventure, visit the National Park Service’s site for additional information about Bandelier National Monument.

Have you visited this incredible place? You’re more than welcome to tell us all about your experience in the comments! You can also suggest your other favorite attractions here in our home state on our nomination page.

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Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico, USA