News Release
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Contact: Joanie Budzileni, 505-672-3861 x 1501
Northern New Mexico – The National Park Service (NPS) published 2021 annual visitation statistics and a news release that provide a picture of 2021 by the numbers for the NPS, including a list of the 25 most visited parks. Like many of these well-known areas, Bandelier National Monument, Manhattan Project National Historical Park, and Valles Caldera National Preserve saw a dramatic increase in visitation compared to 2020. Bandelier received 270,716 recreation visits in 2021, up 285% from the 94,948 in 2020. (Bandelier’s highest visitation, 430,138, dates to 1994.) Valles Caldera welcomed 76,758 recreation visits, a 152% increase over 30,434 in 2020. Manhattan Project in Los Alamos had 7,584 visits in 2021, an increase over 2020 when the site was closed for 10 months, but a significant decrease from 2019 when over 21,000 people visited the site.
Discover the Manhattan Project in Los Alamos and learn about one of the most transformative events of the 20th century – the development of the world’s first atomic bombs and the complicated legacies associated with the dawn of the nuclear age. Learn about the park at the visitor center and explore downtown Los Alamos through a walking tour that highlights museums, historic places, and early history of the area.
In the heart of the Jemez Mountains, Valles Caldera preserves a rich human history and high-alpine ecosystem found within a large volcanic caldera. Visitors can explore the geologic history of the region, scenic vistas, and watch wildlife.
Bandelier, Manhattan Project, and Valles Caldera provide countless opportunities for fun and learning. Bandelier Park Superintendent, Patrick Suddath adds, “With the vast human and natural history of the area and ways to explore it, you won't get bored. There's something for everyone here!"
To learn more about national parks in New Mexico and how the National Park Service works with New Mexico’s communities to help preserve local history, conserve the environment, and provide outdoor recreation, go to www.nps.gov/newmexico.
About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America's 419 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov, and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
Bandelier National Monument – www.nps.gov/band
Manhattan Project National Historical Park – www.nps.gov/mapr
Valles Caldera National Preserve – www.nps.gov/vall
Last updated: February 26, 2022