Winter Solstice Walks this year are Tuesday, Dec. 20, Wednesday, Dec. 21 and Thursday, Dec. 22 starting at 7:15 a.m. and 1:50 p.m. in front of the visitor center in Frijoles Canyon at Bandelier. Call ahead of time to the park visitor center at 505.672.3861, ext. 0  to RSVP. Courtesy/NPS

NPS News:

The days are getting shorter, which means that the winter solstice is nearly here. Bandelier National Monument will once again be presenting the Winter Solstice Walks Tuesday, Dec. 20 to Thursday, Dec. 22.

The programs start at 7:15 a.m. and 1:50 p.m. in front of the visitor center in Frijoles Canyon on all three days. 

“Even though the winter solstice occurs Dec. 21, the sunrise and sunset will line up with a sun petroglyph in Frijoles Canyon on all three days,” Superintendent Patrick Suddath said. “It’s quite a spectacular thing to see.” 

Due to the program’s popularity, the number of walks has been increased and those wishing to attend are encouraged to call the park visitor center at 505.672.3861, ext. 0 ahead of time to RSVP. Walk-ups are still welcome. Visitors should dress warmly and be prepared to stand outside in the cold. Also don’t forget your camera and cell phones to take pictures! 

Bandelier National Monument is open sunrise to sunset every day. In Frijoles Canyon, the park visitor center and the park store (operated by Western National Parks Association) are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.    

Park entrance fees are $25 per private vehicle, $20 per motorcycle or $15 per bicycle/individual. All entrancepasses are valid for 7 days. Camping fees are not included in entrance fees. America the Beautiful– the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands passes are accepted for entrance fees.

The full suite of America the Beautiful – the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands passes as well as Bandelier Annual passes are available for purchase at the visitor center. For more information about types of passes and prices, visit: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm.