About Los Alamos

From its Native American history to world-changing science at Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos has always been a place of discovery. It is a place of spectacular scenery, fascinating history, diverse wildlife, uncommon recreational opportunities, world-class cultural activities, and small-town friendliness. Los Alamos is located at an elevation of 7,300 feet on the Pajarito Plateau, approximately 35 miles northwest of Santa Fe.

Culture

The presence of Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) makes Los Alamos a unique community, where learning and innovation are prized. Despite its small-town size (pop. 18,000), the citizens of Los Alamos represent the most internationally diverse population in the State of New Mexico. Los Alamos is made up of people from throughout the world, and the nature of the work of the national laboratory means that there is a constant exchange.

There are a number of ancient Native American sites nearby, most notably at Bandelier National Monument. In addition, Los Alamos is within 45 minutes of eight Indian pueblos.

Cultural opportunities abound in Los Alamos. Art, music, dance, theater, and lecture are available almost every day of the year. Free, weekly, outdoor concerts are held during the summer. Santa Fe, just a short drive away, is home to world-class museums, art galleries, theaters, and the outdoor Santa Fe Opera.

Recreational Opportunities

Los Alamos is home to Pajarito Mountain ski area, the Larry Walkup Aquatic Center, a golf course, an outdoor ice-skating rink, and an urban trail system that connects to adjacent National Forest trails.

Los Alamos is adjacent to Bandelier National Monument, the Jemez National Recreation Area, and the Valles Caldera National Preserve. It is also the eastern terminus of the Jemez Mountains National Scenic Byway. The San Pedro Parks Wilderness (average altitude above 10,000 feet) and the Dome Wilderness are nearby.

Los Alamos hosts sporting events throughout year, including the Tour de Los Alamos (bicycle road race), Run the Caldera Marathon, Pajarito Punishment (mountain bike race), Jemez Mountain Trail Runs, Los Alamos Triathlon, golf tournaments, and many other events.