A ladder on the Pueblo Loop Trail, formerly known as the Main Loop Trail, at Bandelier National Monument. Photo Courtesy NPS
BANDELIER NATIONAL MONUMENT NEWS
Entrance Fees will be Charged Beginning Monday, July 13
With construction complete and the Pueblo Loop Trail (formerly known as the Main Loop Trail) now open, Bandelier National Monument will resume charging entrance fees on Monday, July 13. The project to improve the surface of the 1.2-mile trail that starts just behind the park visitor center in Frijoles Canyon has been in progress for several years. While the trail is not ADA accessible, the concrete surface is a vast improvement and going to make it easier for the public to see, up close, some of the only excavated archaeological sites in Bandelier. Acting Superintendent Scott McFarland added, “Many thanks to everyone involved in getting this project planned, funded and built. The trail will be enjoyed by millions of visitors over its lifespan.”
The very popular ladders and cavates on the Pueblo Loop Trail are open as well. The public is strongly encouraged to wear masks and to remain socially distant during their visit.
In addition, these areas are now open:
- Frey Trail
- Tyuonyi Overlook Trail
- Mesa Top Parking Lot
- Visitor Center lobby for the purchase of passes only
Frijoles Canyon is open to 50% capacity, based on the number of parking spots. Visitors may be required to return at a later time or encouraged to recreate in other areas of Bandelier or the surrounding areas when this capacity is reached. Parking for large RV’s in the canyon is very limited. Those with RV’s and trailers may park in the mesa top parking lot and hike down and back up the Frey Trail.
The park store managed by Western National Parks Association (WNPA) and the café, Sirphey in the Canyon, are also open.
The following facilities and services remain closed:
- Tsankawi
- Ponderosa and Juniper Campgrounds
- Alcove House
- Bandelier Shuttle Bus System
Entrance fees are $25 per private vehicle, $20 for motorcycles, $15 for individuals; credit cards are preferred. All America the Beautiful (annual and lifetime) passes and the Bandelier annual pass are accepted.
While these areas are available for visitors to enjoy, a return to full operations will continue to be phased and services may be limited. When recreating, the public should follow local area health orders from the New Mexico Department of Health https://cv.nmhealth.org/, practice Leave No Trace principles, avoid crowding and avoid high-risk outdoor activities. Details and updates on park operations will continue to be posted on the park website https://www.nps.gov/band/index.htm and social media channels. Updates about NPS operations will be posted on www.nps.gov/coronavirus.
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