Trail improvements planned at Bandelier National Monument

BANDELIER NATIONAL MONUMENT, N.M. – The National Park Service says the popular loop trail at Bandelier National Monument will be getting a much-needed facelift this summer.

Officials say the 1.2-mile (1.93-kilometre) paved path at the bottom of Frijoles Canyon is showing the effects of weather, time and tons of foot traffic. The trail provides access to dozens of archaeological sites.

Acting Superintendent Dennis Milligan said visitors should expect rerouting, closures and delays. The work is scheduled to begin in May and will last from four to six months.

Starting in May, visitors also will be required to take a shuttle bus from the White Rock visitor centre to access the monument’s most visited area in Frijoles Canyon. The shuttle helps relive the shortage of parking during the busy season.

The shuttles will run daily from May 14 through Oct. 14.

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