Safety

Sand helps to create traction on icy trails and sidewalks in winter.

NPS / M. Keel

 

We want your trip to Bandelier National Monument to be safe and enjoyable. This page includes important information that you should know before you come to the park. Please keep this information in mind and prepare well for your trip. Ultimately, your safety is your responsibility.

 

In an Emergency

Cell coverage is very limited inside the park you should not expect to depend on your cell phone in an emergency. If you are in a location with cell phone service, dial 911. Phones are located at:

• Bandelier National Monument Visitor Center
• Bandelier National Monument Entrance Station

 

Be prepared when visiting the park!

NPS

Heat & Sun

The heat adds increased risk to any activity in the park: driving, hiking, sightseeing, camping, photography, and more.

• Check the weather forecast and park alerts. Check the weather conditions for extreme heat alerts and stop by the visitor center before visiting the park.
• Take time to acclimate to high altitudes. Your body loses more fluids at high altitudes, increasing your risk of dehydration and heat-related illness. Allow several days to acclimate before starting any strenuous exercise.
• Pick the right activity for your abilities. Use the Plan Your Visit section to pick an activity.
• Pace yourself. Start your hike slowly and pick up the pace gradually.
• Take plenty of breaks. Rest in the shade or cool down in air conditioning.
• Drink plenty of water. Stay hydrated and drink before you feel thirsty. Plan to bring extra water, just in case you need it. Sports beverages can help replace salt and minerals lost from sweat.
• Wear sun protection. UVA/UVB sunscreen, a hat, lightweight and light-colored clothing, and sunglasses are recommended.
• Do not leave children or pets in a parked vehicle. The temperature in a car can rise very quickly!
• Learn about heat-related illnesses. Know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness and how to treat them. Call 911, or if there is no cell service, find a ranger to help.

Where can I get water?

Water bottle fill stations are located at Bandelier National Monument Visitor Center, Falls Trail, Cottonwood Overflow Parking Lot, and Frey Trail. Please enter the park prepared with plenty of water stored in your car and/or backpack.

 

Weather

Check the weather forecast and park alerts before your visit.

The weather in the mid-late summer months is sunny and dry, with thunderstorms in the afternoon. During heavy rains flash flooding along rivers and canyon bottoms is always possible. Hikers must always be aware of changing weather conditions and of their surroundings. Watch and listen for changing water levels in creeks as well as falling rocks; move to higher ground. Turn around if unsafe obstacles are encountered.

Frost and chance of snow storms from October through May. Wear layered comfortable sportswear type clothing appropriate for the season, with sturdy walking shoes.

 

Share the Road

Park roads are steep, narrow, and winding. Do not stop on the roadway; use pullouts or overlooks. Watch for wildlife, pay close attention to your speed around curves, and obey all traffic signs.

Bicyclists use caution! The road is steep and paved shoulders are rare. Ride in single file and stay as far to the right as possible. Bicyclists, like motor vehicle drivers, must obey all traffic signs and regulations.

Please note that bicycles are not allowed on pedestrian trails.

 

It's important that animals, like black bears, remain wild and not become used to people and human food.

NPS / Sally King

Wildlife

Keep wildlife wild. Any wild animal may be dangerous if approached. Additionally, wild animals can carry deadly diseases such as hantavirus, plague, and rabies. Always view wildlife from the safety or your car or from a distance. Do not approach animals to take pictures, and teach children not to chase or pick up animals.

Never feed wildlife; it is unhealthy for animals and may lead them to become aggressive towards humans. Store food in hard-sided containers or in your vehicle to prevent ravens, coyotes, and other animals from eating it.

It is exciting to see wildlife, but remember: the park is their home and it is our responsibility to allow animals to live their lives undisturbed.

A few venomous animals live in the park, including rattlesnakes. When hiking or climbing in the park, always look before you place your hands or feet. Avoid stepping or reaching into places you cannot see.

Bees may attack when their hives are threatened. Listen for buzzing and stay away. Bees looking for water are attracted to any moisture source, including human perspiration. Their activity picks up in the summer when the park is at its driest. Do not swat at them; they might sting you. Keep drinks and food inside your vehicle. Keep car windows rolled up and use caution when exiting your vehicle. Bees will pick up water where they can find it and then fan themselves inside the hive to provide evaporative cooling! This is one of the main reasons that bees actively seek out places with water in the hot summer. If you are allergic to bees, consider visiting in the winter when bee activity is at its lowest and always have necessary medicine with you.

 

Elevation and Climbing

The elevation in Frijoles Canyon is 6,000 feet and can cause breathing difficulties for some people visiting from lower elevations. Climbing ladders should not be attempted by people with heart problems or severe fear of heights. Children should be accompanied by adults at all times.