There are few places more peaceful and fascinating in New Mexico than Bandelier National Monument. A historic site home to the preserved abodes of the Ancestral Puebloans, many of the sites here date back to the pre-Columbian era. This is as close as you’ll get to staring ancient history in the face – and you can see it all without breaking a sweat. The Main Ruin Loop Trail is a paved loop trail in New Mexico that’s accessible to all ability levels and is one of the most fascinating hikes you’ll ever take.

Exploring Bandelier National Monument, there is no shortage of trails to explore -- but one is the most famous for a reason.
Sigung Matt/AllTrails
The Main Ruin Loop Trail gives you an amazing look at some of the park's ancient monuments from a comfortable, easy-to-walk 1.4-mile paved loop.
Shaina Holm/AllTrails
Many of the earthworks built around the path have been built out of sturdy stones, standing intact for close to a thousand years.
David Wash/AllTrails
The well-built path means that you'll be able to enjoy this trail no matter the weather.
LM Johnson/AllTrails
The trail gives you an incredible look at the nearby mountain, which is the main attraction of the trail.
Gregory Wood/AllTrails

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The loop trail takes you right up against the mountain, where you'll realize the path's biggest surprise...
Gregory Wood/AllTrails
Many of the Ancestral Pueblo homes along the path have been built right into the mountain itself!
Matthew Hoelscher/AllTrails
Carved out of the stone, they are incredibly well-preserved and are still accessible today.
David Wash/AllTrails
Stepping inside one of these caverns, it's amazing to imagine how the residents lived so many centuries ago.
Faycal Benani/AllTrails
The loop also takes you into some peaceful wooded areas of the tree - perfect for a rest after exploring the historic sites.
Gregory Wood/AllTrails
There is no other location in New Mexico like it -- and it's a hike anyone can experience thanks to the easy path.
Srini Krishnamurthy/AllTrails

Have you explored Bandelier National Monument and the Main Ruin Loop Trail? Let us know what you think of this paved loop trail in New Mexico in the comments section. If you’re planning a visit, drop by the official government website for more information. If you’re looking to further explore New Mexico’s history, consider a visit to these five historic towns.

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Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico, USA