Bandelier's landscape has long been affected by volcanic activity.
Bandelier National Monument's 33,000 acres lay on the slopes of the Jemez Mountains. With elevations from just over 10,000 feet at Cerro Grande to just over 5,000 feet at the Rio Grande, the landscape encompasses sloped mesas cut by steep-walled canyons. Formed by massive volcanic eruptions over 1 million years ago, this place is home to a diversity of plant and animal life.
Animals For more information on Bandelier birds, insects, reptiles... more...
Mammals Learn about which mammals call Bandelier home. more...
Did You Know?
Most rattlesnakes bites are "dry" bites in which little or no venom is produced. That doesn't mean you want to get bit. Keep your distance if you encounter a rattlesnake while hiking.