Frijoles Canyon in 1917. Courtesy/NPSBANDELIER News:
Visitation is rising along with spring temperatures. During the months of March and April, Bandelier National Monument is a popular destination for spring break travelers. Why not arrive early, before 10 a.m. to avoid crowded parking lots?
A walk along the Main Loop Trail in the morning and a shorter wait for a climb up one of the ladders might be a bit more relaxing. If arriving after 3 p.m. is a better option, then your visit must conclude by sunset, at about 7 p.m.
The café in Frijoles Canyon, while not open yet, will be open soon. Until it does, plan on bringing a picnic lunch. Water and light snacks are available at the book store in the visitor center.
Superintendent Jason Lott would like to remind everyone that it’s a great time to consider camping in Juniper Campground up on the mesa top.
Entrance fee is $20/private vehicle. America the Beautiful Annual Passes, good for entry to parks nationwide, or Bandelier Passes, which provide unlimited visits to the park for a year, are always available.
The Bandelier Visitor Center is open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Weather permitting, the park is open every day during daylight hours, except Christmas and New Year’s Day.
For more information, contact the Bandelier Visitor Center at 505.672.3861 x 517, or check out the park website at www.nps.gov/band or the Facebook page at BandelierNPS.