More Rain!

One of my weekly readings is the NPS Morning Report; it gives various updates on the national parks and monuments across the US.  While often accidents are reported, yesterday was by far one of the most devastating rain updates ever:  http://home.nps.gov/morningreport/morningreportold.cfm

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado:  The east side of Rocky Mountain National Park is under an emergency disaster declaration, and the park is closed to all recreational use.

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, New Mexico:   Flood waters from heavy rain showers along the Gila River within the Gila National Forest has required the temporary closing of Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument and the Gila Visitor Center. 

Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Arizona:   Rainbow Bridge National Monument remains closed indefinitely after several days of heavy rains caused a trail wash out. Damage includes a complete loss of approximately 150 feet of trail between the dock and the first shade structure, with a 21-foot drop-off into Bridge Creek.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas:   Trail closures are in place in several areas of the park, including all high-country trails. Hikers and backpackers should exercise extreme caution as most trails still have loose rocks and soft, uneven ground, and many require shallow water crossings.

We have visited all these parks and I couldn’t believe what I was reading…all in one report from different parts of the country.