Bandelier National Monument – Where You Climb Ladders to Explore! 🪜🏜

After having lunch at Zeng, a small American-style Chinese spot in Santa Fe (the stir-fried noodles were a bit salty but okay, and my friend loved the spicy sour noodle soup!), we headed to 📍Bandelier National Monument. 🥢🚗 The drive there was scenic—winding mountain roads surrounded by canyon-like landscapes with striking geological layers. The most iconic feature of the park is the countless caves carved into the cliffs, some accessible by climbing ladders along the trails! 🧗♀️✨ After checking in at the visitor center 🏞️, a ranger told us there are hundreds of trails here, but the most popular are these two—both starting right behind the center. 📍 Pueblo Loop Trail Easy, flat, and not too long. Only a couple of short ladders lead into small caves—great for a warm-up! 📍 Alcove Trail Branching off from Pueblo Loop, this one is a must-do! It ends with three connected ladders 🪜 that take you up to a large cave. Not only does the high vantage point offer sweeping views, but the ladders are long and steep—adding a fun little thrill! This was the highlight of my visit. 🌄❤️ We also spotted mule deer 🦌 in the park and along the mountain roads. The first photo was taken at sunset on the cliffs beside the winding road—with a stunning fiery sky wrapping up a perfect day. 🌇🔥 #NewMexico #RoadTrip #SantaFe #HiddenGems #BandelierNationalMonument #ClimbAndExplore #LadderAdventure #CanyonViews #HikingTrails #NatureLovers #USAParks #SouthwestVibes #TravelDiary #ScenicDrive #WildlifeWatching #SunsetLovers #ExploreTheStates