News Release

UPDATE - Pinto Basic Road Reopens After Flood Event at Joshua Tree National Park

Date: August 19, 2022

Pinto Basin Road has reopened after flood events damaged this roadway earlier in the week. Dirt is still present on the road and will remain short-term as weather forecasts predict additional rain over the weekend. Drive with caution.

Remaining closures inside Joshua Tree National Park include:
Geology Tour Road from the northern gate to Berdoo Canyon; 
Big Horn Pass complex.

All facilities and paved roads in the northern region of the park remain open. 

During wetter weather, tortoises are more active. The water encourages them to emerge for a drink and they can look like rocks in the road. Be tortoise aware. Do not speed and check under vehicles before driving away.

Flash floods in the desert can quickly turn deadly. The park continues to experience localized monsoon storms which may cause additional flooding. Always check the weather forecast before entering the park, and if you encounter flash flooding on roads, turn around and don't drown. Current information can be found on the park website at: https://www.nps.gov/jotr/index.htm. Safety information on visiting Joshua Tree National Park during monsoon season can be found at the following website: www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/floods.htm