The first sightseeing jaunt we took from Santa Fe was a trip to Bandelier National Monument.
Do you know the difference between a national park and a national monument? I used to think all I would see if I went to a national monument was some kind of a statue until I was enlightened a few years ago by a ranger. National Monuments are created by the President while National Parks are created by Congress. So don't pass by those National Monuments because you will be missing something great.
The drive up was not all that long and was scenic itself.
Los Alamos is right on the way so you might want to make it another stop. I was there a few years ago and didn't get to visit Bandelier because you had to take a bus in and we weren't there at the right time.
Some interesting info on how this area was created.
Be sure you stop in the building because there is some interesting history you won't want to miss.
You actually have to park by the main buildings and walk to see the cliff dwellings. It's a paved path most of the way so anyone should be able to maneuver on it.
Once you get to the dwellings area there are staircases to climb but you can see a lot from down below.
These are the remains of village buildings along the path.
These are the dwellings in the cliffs. You can see the staircase climb involved.
Buildings were built in front as well as using areas carved out of actual rock.
I took this picture from the upper area looking back along the walkway.
I found this on the way back. I did the main loop. Elaine did part of it but it got too warm for her so she found a shady bench and waited for me.
Back at the RVs, we enjoyed steak, baked potatoes, and salad for dinner. It was my turn to cook.
Fantastic
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