Bandelier Flooding 2013

Alcove Trail-2
One of the many log jams on Alcove Trail due to the flood on 9/13/13

photo by Jana McClure

On September 13, 2013 Bandelier experienced the largest flood in the park's recorded history. The park staff worked hard to make the park safe and enjoyable once again allowing it to be re-opened to the public on September 19, 2013.

When you arrive; the Bandelier Visitor Center will update you on the most current trail status.

While the landscape and trails have been changed by the effect of the flooding, it is a fantastic opportunity to come witness firsthand how an ecosystem is refreshed and to get a firsthand look a the impressive ways fire and water are constantly changing the landscape. Come out and enjoy a "new" Frijoles Canyon!

Scroll down to see photos of the flood and some of the recovery efforts our hard working crew has been working on!

To see video of this flood click here.

 
flood 2
During the flood high water covered most of the island in the main parking lot by the visitor center.

photo by sally king

 
entrance road
The entrance road was undercut and covered by mud when the flood waters receded.

photo by sally king

 
muddy trail 3
This portion of the Main Loop Trail was covered by layers of mud and silt.

photo by sally king

 
was nature trail
The nature trail was left covered in mud and puddles of water.

photo by sally king

 
was bridge crossing 3
The creek has grown much wider in this area near where the trail crossed the creek below Long House.

photo by sally king

 
was bridge crossing 6
A view the opposite direction.

photo by sally king

 
Foot Bridge 091313
Foot Bridge 091313
 
foot bridge area after clean up
Foot Bridge area after clean up; minus the bridge!

Jana McClure

 
muddy trail
Mud and rocks on trail before clean up effort.
 
After clean up, trail is ready for visitors!
After clean up, trail is ready for visitors!
 

Last updated: February 17, 2019

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Mailing Address:

Bandelier National Monument
15 Entrance RD

Los Alamos, NM 87544

Phone:

505 672-3861 x0

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