Update on Frijoles Canyon Flash Flood

News Release Date:
September 6, 2024

Contact:Zachary Whitlow, (505) 709-5146

Los Alamos, N.M. - Just before 5 pm on September 5th, Frijoles Canyon was impacted by significant flash flooding. The Los Alamos area had been experiencing heavy rains that afternoon, and mid-Frijoles Canyon was especially affected according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) data. This buildup is apparently what lead to the flooding event. Current park data shows that the water levels rose to 5.74 feet. Normally, Frijoles Creek flows at about 1 foot.

The Visitor Center and Pueblo Loop Trail (up to Long House) will be open this morning. However, other trails and all creek crossings in Frijoles Canyon will remain closed as National Park Service teams assess damage to bridges, trails, trees, and other park resources. Backcountry camping in Bandelier's canyons is also currently closed.

Additional updates will be posted to Bandelier's website and social media pages.

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