Bandelier staff clean up after the recent flood. Courtesy photoBandelier News:
Frijoles Canyon in Bandelier National Monument reopened to the public Thursday. Bandelier staff began cleanup over the weekend and continued early this week to clear debris off the Main Loop Trail and the visitor parking lot.
The public should expect a few changes in visitor services due to flooding:
- Bandelier National Monument is not charging entrance fees until further notice
- The public can only access Frijoles Canyon via a shuttle service provided by Atomic City Transit. Visitors can board the free shuttle at the White Rock Visitor Center beginning at 8:10 a.m., with the last shuttle leaving Frijoles Canyon at 5:10 pm.
- The Main Loop Trail is open. Visitors can explore the ancestral pueblo cliff dwellings up to the site of Long House.
- All trails requiring creek crossing are closed including the Falls Trails and Alcove House. Staff continues to clear debris in these areas to ensure the area is safe for visitors.
- Bandelier’s backcountry is open and can be accessed from Ponderosa Campground, N.M. 4, and Forest Road 289.
- Trails along N.M. 4 including Tsankawi are open and were not affected by flooding.
Bandelier National Monument staff encourages visitors to explore and enjoy the trails and services offered. Exploring Frijoles Canyon on the Main Loop Trail, allows visitors to witness the power of water in a canyon environment.
For further information on the flooding event and current conditions, call the Visitor Center at 505-672-3861 ext. 517.
