Visit Bandelier National Monument for History and Hummingbirds

Travel back in time to view ancient sites, hummingbirds and wildlife at this historic treasure in New Mexico.

Ancient cliff dwellings at Bandelier National MonumentGetty Images/iStockphoto
A ladder leads to cliff dwellings at Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico.

Ancient History

Take the Main Loop Trail at Bandelier National Monument to view archaeological sites with structures and petroglyphs created by the Pueblo people thousands of years ago. Along the trail, wooden ladders allow you to enter carved dwellings called cavates that dot the cliffsides. 

Hummingbird Hotspot

Spot black-chinned and broad-tailed hummingbirds nesting along the creek, easily accessible from the visitor center. Arrive early for the best bird-watching and to park in the area, avoiding the shuttle that’s required after 9 a.m. in peak season. Discover more hummingbird species to look for in the west.

Man hiking at Bandelier National MonumentGetty Images/iStockphoto
Hike the Main Loop Trail at Bandelier National Monument for scenery and history.

Wildlife Habitat

Take the Falls Trail for a taste of the diversity of habitats, birds and wildlife found across the monument’s 33,000 acres. The path features over a mile of elevation changes, spanning canyons, creeks, mesas, meadows and a waterfall. Check out these spectacular national park birding sites.

Explore the Backcountry

Get off the beaten path. Backcountry trails allow visitors to explore from the Rio Grande to the summit of Cerro Grande Peak, the highest point. But if striking out into the wilderness gives you pause, try a ranger-led tour instead. During these hikes, which are as short as 4 miles, rangers offer glimpses of rarely seen terrain, geology and wildlife. Contact the Visitor Center at Bandelier National Monument for dates and locations.