Bandelier National Monument (BNM) began its free summer shuttle service to Frijoles Canyon June 14.

The shuttle, which visitors board at the White Rock Visitor Center in White Rock, is mandatory 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. These are the ONLY exceptions where visitors are NOT required to ride the shuttle:

1. Visitors can drive in before 9 AM and after 3 PM

2. Someone going into Bandelier on a Bicycle

3. Anyone with a Handicap Placard

4. Anyone with an Overnight Backcountry Permit

5. ALL Commercial Groups

6. Educational Groups in a Bus or Van

7. Anyone on Official Park Business

8. Campers going ONLY to Campground (Shuttle Stop into Canyon at Campground)

The shuttles first stop at the Frey Trailhead parking area, and then proceeds to the Bandelier Visitor Center in Frijoles Canyon. It stops at the Frey Trailhead parking area again on its way back to White Rock. It is approximately a 20-minute ride to and from Bandelier National Monument.

The shuttles run every half hour on weekdays and every 20 minutes on weekends. Visitors will be able to drive into Frijoles Canyon if they arrive before 9 a.m. and after 3 p.m.

“Summer is one of our busiest times of the year,” Bandelier Superintendent Patrick Suddath said. “The shuttle service, which is provided by Atomic City Transit, alleviates traffic and parking congestion in Frijoles Canyon. It also helps to protect park resources by reducing the amount of pedestrian traffic on the trails.”

He added that it helps visitors to have a more relaxed and enjoyable visit.

The shuttle is expected to stop running in mid-October 2023.