News Release

Upper Cliff Dwelling Trail to Remain Closed After Flood Damage

Date: September 27, 2019
Contact: Eric Schreiner, [phone]

Roosevelt, AZ – After significant damage from a storm on Monday, September 23, 2019, the Upper Cliff Dwelling Trail will remain closed to the public until January 2020. The amount of precipitation from the storm caused flooding, washouts, and erosion along the trail. Hazards including damaged trail crossings, loose rocks and debris, collapsed steps, and unstable ground create unsafe conditions for visitors and staff at this time.

Tonto National Monument will be working with National Park Service trail crews from other parks to expedite the reconstruction of the Upper Cliff Dwelling Trail. Trail work is expected to be completed by the end of December 2019. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Upper Cliff Dwelling tours will begin on January 3, 2020 and continue through the last weekend of April. The Upper Cliff Dwelling Trail will only be opened when deemed safe to do so. Visitor and staff safety is of the utmost importance to Tonto National Monument.

Ongoing hazards within the burned area caused by the 2019 Woodbury Fire can be expected. Visitors should use caution when hiking for potential hazards of falling trees and cactus, broken limbs, burned stumps, falling rocks/debris, and flooding. Remember to stay in designated areas.

Reservations for tours between January 3, 2020 and April 27, 2020 can be made starting October 1, 2019 by calling Tonto National Monument at [phone]. More information on Upper Cliff Dwelling tours can be found at: https://www.nps.gov/tont/planyourvisit/upper-cliff-dwelling-guided-tours.htm

Please check the Tonto National Monument website and social media accounts for updated information on trail conditions and closures.

For more information contact:

[phone] and e-mail us or visit:
https://www.nps.gov/tont
https://www.facebook.com/TontoNPS
https://www.instagram.com/TontoNPS
https://twitter.com/tonto_nps