Upper Fall via Falls Trail(edit)

Overview

This is an easy out and back trail to Upper Falls in Bandelier National Monument. The trail gradually descends along the sunny south wall of Frijoles Canyon before cross the canyon bottom about a mile from the start. Here the trail traverses shady ponderosa pine forest before crossing the stream and climbing above the falls, which can be heard below. At the highpoint, enjoy the view downcanyon to the Rio Grande, then descend along the south cliff to a viewpoint of the nearly 100-foot high Upper Falls. Although the trail once continued to the Rio Grande, floods following the 2011 Las Conchas fire obliterated the trail below Upper Falls and there is no way to reach the river. Note that during dry periods there may be no water flowing over the falls--but the rocks are still spectacular.

Getting Started

If you head toward the Bandelier Visitor Center on the Entrance Road, turn off before reaching the center at the left hand turn into Cottonwood Picnic Area and overflow parking. Park near the east end of the area, then backtrack on the road a few hundred feet to well-marked trailhead.

Taking Children

Children will love the water in the creek in the shady pine forest. Once climbing to the viewpoint above the falls, be mindful of the sheer drop off to the left of the trail and keep children close at hand.