Visit Three National Parks from One Location During National Park Week

Family travelers can experience three national parks in one trip for National Park Week, from April 16 to April 24. Sharing a border with three national parks, including Bandelier National Monument, Valles Caldera National Preserve and Manhattan Project National Historic Park, Los Alamos serves as the perfect hub to experience each park’s beauty and history.

© Los Alamos County

“As the gateway to three National Parks, Los Alamos serves as a basecamp to explore three unique parks in one visit,” said Kelly Stewart, marketing manager for Los Alamos County. “Each park offers a different glimpse into our area’s history, as well as distinct recreation opportunities and adventures. We encourage all to discover these historic areas, get back to nature, and celebrate the amazing gems that are our National Parks.”

Bandelier National Monument allows visitors to not only enjoy the many hiking trails and wildlife but also witness centuries-old petroglyphs and imagine life as an ancient cliff dweller. The Puebloan settlements and other more ancient sites and artifacts indicate the presence of humans in the area more than 10,000 years ago. Most popular in the spring, the park also features local wildlife, including short-horned lizards, mule deer and various species of birds.

© Los Alamos County

History lovers venturing to Manhattan Project National Historic Park will have the opportunity to join a walking tour to learn about the science that led to the end of World War II. Entrance to this park is free, and those wanting to learn even more about the area’s history and science can explore the Los Alamos History Museum and the Bradbury Science Museum.

At Valles Caldera National Preserve, experience the more than 89,000 acres of land, including one of only seven super volcanos found in the world. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, the park allows visitors to enjoy hiking, fishing, mountain biking, camping and horseback riding. Also free to enter, Valles Caldera National Preserve serves as the home to prairie dogs, elk, black bears and golden eagles.