We're planning to visit the Bandelier ruins in August with two children, eight and three? How long should we plan to be there, would a couple of hours do, or do we need longer? Also, can a three year old climb up the ladders to the ruins? And how hot will it be? And do you have any ideas about the prettiest place to tent camp in the area? And how long does it take to get to Bandelier from Albuquerque? Thanks!

There is a *lot* of walking to see the various sites. It is beautiful though. We were fortunate to be there on a cool Sunday morning in November before the crowds built up.

You could probably "help" your three year old up a ladder to one of the caves in the main area, but I bailed out after the second ladder to the ceremonial caves. The rungs are far apart and there is no protecttion from falling between the ladders. I wouldn't let a 8 year old even START up those ladders.
If you want to see some pictures: http://avatar.phys-plant.utoledo.edu...ewmex/band.htm

I cannot answer all of your questions, but Bandelier is about 1 and a half hours from Albuquerque because the distance is about 75 miles.

As for the ladders, a 3 year old would not be able to make it unless he or she is very strong and agile. But an 8 year old might. It depends on the 8 year old. Some of those youngsters who play sports regularly can out climb many adults. My son was 9 when we went to Bandelier, and he was small for his age. He got up the shorter ladders. I have a picture of him sitting in one of the openings with his legs dangling out. But, it is no big deal if you don't go up a ladder. I think 2 hours should suffice to see the principle parts, but longer if you want to nose around. We spent about 2.5 hours there, once we got to the first "hole". The area is high in terms of altitude, so the heat will be tolerble. It is quite dry and you will be at about 6,000 feet.

Cindy-
Absolutely with kids.
In the order your questions were asked:
1) I would plan a 4 hour visit, not including travel time. I can't tell if you are planning on camping there or making it a day trip. There is a creek that runs through the picnic area that is mighty fun to play in. A picnic lunch is a much better and cheaper option than buying food from the concession.
2) I partially agree with Sally about the ladders. Yes, you will need to help your 3 year old with the ladders. However, that part about not letting the 8 year up the longer ones is silly. Kids have a much higher strength to weight ratio and they aren't afraid, they scramble up like little goats. Oh yeah, I've climbed all those ladders every year since I was about 6.
3) Heat is variable it can go as high as 87 or hover around 73-75. Be prepared for rain. One summer I was able to set my watch by the daily 3:30 rainstorm. It doesn't last long 20 minutes or so, then it clears up.
4) There is a camp ground there, but I don't recall ever staying there.
5) Travel time from ABQ, I would estimate at 2 hours. It's about 1 hour from ABQ to SF and another 45 minutes from SF to Los Alamos. If you have out of state plates you have a significantly higher chance of being tagged for speeding while locals breeze by. Sorry.
There are at least 2 other routes but I don't recommend them as they are largely unsigned.
Hope that helps!
Santa Fean stranded in SFCA

Thanks for all the good advice! That really helps!