Last updated: April 29, 2025
Thing to Do
Long Trails
NPS / Sally King
Within Bandelier's 33,000 acres there are over 70 miles of trails. Some trails are short easy loops while others are longer and more difficult. Longer backcountry trails often involve hiking more than 12 miles round-trip. Backcountry permits are required and are available at the visitor center for overnight stays in the park's backcountry. Water is not readily available on most backcountry trails. Please check at the visitor center for current conditions before hiking in the backcountry.
Pets, bicycles, and pack animals are not permitted on any park trails.
Details
Duration
4-10 Hours
Activity
Backcountry Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
Yes
Entrance fee applies
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Winter hikes may include snowy or icy trails, while hikes in the summer will be hot and occasionally include thunderstorms.
Accessibility Information
Most backcountry trails are strenuous to hike. Backcountry hikers can expect uneven terrain, elevation gain/loss, climbing, scrambling, and some route-finding. Hiking conditoins and legnths can be difficult for those who are not physically fit or have any physical limitations. Pets are not permitted in the backcountry, however, certified service animals are.