Today was all about ancient history and stunning natural beauty as Saffron and I ventured out of Santa Fe for a day trip to Bandelier National Monument. We climbed, hiked, and marveled at the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans who made this rugged landscape their home.
Morning in the Ancient World
Our day began with a scenic drive to Bandelier National Monument, which is a testament to the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans, who lived in the region between 1150 and 1550 CE. The ancestral Puebloans left Bandelier around 1550 due to drought and resource depletion, moving closer to the Rio Grande. However, their descendants, like the modern-day Pueblo peoples, maintain a deep connection to this land. Named after Adolph Bandelier, a Swiss-American anthropologist who studied the area in the late 19th century, the monument spans over 33,000 acres of rugged canyons and mesa tops.
The area is famous for its ancient cliff dwellings, which were carved directly into the soft volcanic tuff. These dwellings provide a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of the Puebloan people, who relied on agriculture, particularly corn, beans, and squash, to sustain their communities.
Today, the monument is a blend of historical ruins and natural beauty, with over 70 miles of hiking trails that lead visitors through canyons, forests, and archaeological sites.
It was peppered with ladders leading up to cliff-side homes, and you better believe I scrambled up every one of them! Saffron insisted on taking pictures of me “conquering” each ladder like a pint-sized explorer.
Next came the Tyuonyi Pueblo, a large, circular community structure that once stood two stories tall and housed dozens of families. Walking through its ruins, you can imagine the lively community that thrived here.
Rodent-Size Perspective: Tiny travelers, take note: the cliff dwellings are a breeze for us to access, but the ladders can be tricky. Use your tail for balance!
Picnic with a View
After a morning of climbing and exploring, we found a shady spot near Frijoles Creek for a picnic. Running through the heart of Bandelier, Frijoles Creek has been a vital water source for centuries. It provided the necessary resources for farming and daily life for the Puebloan people. Today, the creek enhances the natural beauty of the area, its gentle babbling creating a serene atmosphere as it winds through the lush Frijoles Canyon.
The creek is also a haven for wildlife, including mule deer, wild turkeys, and the occasional black bear. For visitors, it offers a cool respite during hot summer hikes, which is exactly what we used it for.
Saffron had packed a delicious spread, including some of the lavender honey from yesterday’s Farmers Market. We munched on cheese and crackers while soaking in the serene surroundings.
Pro Tip: Always pack extra snacks when hiking—you never know when a little energy boost will come in handy!
Afternoon Adventures at Alcove House
Fueled by lunch, we tackled the Alcove House, one of Bandelier’s most famous spots. This dwelling is perched 140 feet above the canyon floor. To reach it, visitors climb a series of four wooden ladders and narrow stone steps—a thrilling adventure for any traveler, especially a tiny one like me! Saffron was a bit hesitant, but I led the charge, squeaking encouragement all the way up.
At the top, we were rewarded with panoramic views of the canyon and a glimpse into the spiritual life of the Ancestral Puebloans. The kiva was fascinating, and Saffron shared stories about its significance as I perched on the edge, feeling like an ancient guardian of the cliffs.
Dinner at La Plazuela
Back in Santa Fe, we wrapped up the day with a sumptuous dinner at La Plazuela, a charming restaurant nestled within Santa Fe’s historic La Fonda on the Plaza. The restaurant has been a cornerstone of Santa Fe’s Plaza since 1922. But its history as a gathering place dates back even further. The current hotel stands on the site of an inn established in 1607, making it one of the oldest inns in America. La Plazuela, situated in the hotel’s sunlit courtyard, was once an open-air plaza. Now enclosed with a beautiful glass ceiling, it’s a tranquil space where history meets elegance.
The Menu
La Plazuela’s menu blends traditional New Mexican flavors with contemporary twists. Their enchiladas, tamales, and posole honor the region’s culinary heritage, while dishes like chile rellenos and mole-stuffed chicken elevate these classics.
The warm, inviting atmosphere was the perfect setting to reflect on our adventures. I opted for a nibble of Saffron’s posole, a traditional New Mexican stew, while she indulged in carne adovada.
Saffron insisted we try the tableside guacamole, freshly prepared with a sprinkle of local flair. But I was more interested in the sopaipillas, served with a drizzle of honey—a perfect sweet treat for a tiny traveler like me!
But the highlight of La Fonda? The ambiance. The hotel’s stained-glass windows and tiled fountains gave off a timeless charm, making our meal feel like a continuation of the day’s historical theme.
Evening Unwind
Once back at The Inn of the Five Graces, we settled in for some quiet relaxation. Saffron journaled while I admired my growing collection of souvenirs, proud of today’s addition.
Collectible of the Day
Today’s treasure is a tiny shard of obsidian, polished smooth by time and found along the Main Loop Trail. It’s a beautiful reminder of the ancient volcanic forces that shaped this land.
Final Thoughts: Exploring Bandelier National Monument was like stepping back in time. The connection between nature and history here is incredible, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings as we head to the quirky Tinkertown Museum and ride the Sandia Peak Tramway.
Until tomorrow,
Sonny
Big Adventures for a Little Mouse
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