The Oasis of Mara trail in Joshua Tree National Park has been closed due to damage it sustained from recent flooding.

The National Park Service said in a news release monsoonal rains had caused severe erosion on the paved trail and cultural site. Parts of the trail have steep drop-offs while other sections have been undercut, creating unsafe hiking conditions.

The trail will be closed until repairs are completed, but the park service did not say when that might be.

The oasis continues to be culturally and spiritually important to the Maara'yam people, who are represented by the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation and the Morongo band of Mission Indians, NPS said.

They will consult with the park service as the area undergoes repairs.

The area is known to be a home to American kestrels — a

See Full Page