Took a weekend camping trip with the family to Bandelier National Monument near Los Alamos, NM. Bandelier National Monument protects over 33,000 acres of rugged but beautiful canyon and mesa country as well as evidence of a human presence here going back over 11,000 years. Petroglyphs, dwellings carved into the soft rock cliffs, and standing masonry walls pay tribute to the early days of a culture that still survives in the surrounding communities. Tracy, the boys and I had a great time camping and exploring the ancient sites. One of the highlights was climbing the three sets of ladders 350 feet to the Alcove House, a ceremonial Kiva. Sadly I did not bring the bike along on this trip, but immensely enjoyed the hiking. We did get back early enough Sunday that I was able to get a nice mtb ride at home.  Next stop is Steamboat Springs for a work conference and some mountain biking in prime fall foliage.

Climbing up the 350 foot ladders to the Alcove House

Climbing up the 350 foot ladders to the Alcove House

 

Tracy

Tracy

Tracy and the Boys Overlooking  Frijoles Canyon

Tracy and the Boys Overlooking Frijoles Canyon

Cullen next to a random ruin

Cullen next to a random ruin

Give me that hat

Give me that hat

The Fam

The Fam

Still climbing

Still climbing

Why you pushing me Cullen?

Why you pushing me Cullen?

Crazy caves in the canyon wall

Crazy caves in the canyon wall

Checking out some ancient homes

Checking out some ancient homes

Below use to be nan ancient dwelling with 300 people living in it

Below use to be nan ancient dwelling with 300 people living in it

Looking out of a cave

Looking out of a cave

Hello Sweetheart

Hello Sweetheart

Enter Only Caves That Have Ladders

Enter Only Caves That Have Ladders

Cullen ready for the hike

Cullen ready for the hike

Kyle Ready for the hike

Kyle Ready for the hike

More caves

More caves

Father and Son

Father and Son

Bandelier National Monument

Bandelier National Monument

Ancient City

Ancient City

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