There is always a breathtaking, surreal and spirit humbling experience waiting for you in the High Desert and today’s exploration of Bandelier National Monument was no exception.
Tyuonyi Village :|: Ancestral Pueblo People
The excavated Village of Tyuonyi was once home to many Ancestral Pueblo people. Excavated in the early 1900s, most of the pueblo structures of volcanic tuff date between 1150 CE and 1600 CE. With 3000+ Archaeological sites surveyed, the Tyuonyi community was constructed on the floor of Frijoles Canyon at the base of nearby cliff dwellings.
As we walked near the Big Kiva, inside the West rim of the circular plaza, I could not ignore my Spirit’s prompt to offer prayers of gratitude to the Ancestors of this beautiful land.
I choked up thinking how blessed I am to share these experiences with my children; reflecting on how much my adventure traveling Maternal Grandparents Willie C. and Fannie Barwick, would have adored EVERYTHING about today’s family trip.
We took our time walking and laughing along the Pueblo Loop Trail and climbed ladders to experience a few of the amazing cavates (cave dwellings) firsthand.
We are truly lucky. Our home (just 10 miles east) is nestled between sacred Bandelier and Tsankawi, her sister-site down the road and on our list to hike this summer. I am eager to see Tsankawi’s Petroglyphs.
On the next visit to Bandelier, I plan to roam a bit farther (made it to marker #14 today) to explore the Alcove House, Long House and one day soon to conquer the 3-mile Upper Falls Trail.
Bandelier National Monument
15 Entrance Road
Los Alamos, New Mexico 87544
Only 1 question remaining . . . who’s joining us?
– Luckie | Mama Bear. Curator Extraordinaire. Soul + Culture Adventurer.
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