Watch CBS News

Swarming Bees Shut Down Popular Overlook In Joshua Tree National Park

INDIO (CBSLA) — A large swarm of bees temporarily shut down a popular overlook point in Joshua Tree National Park.

The Keys View overlook has been shut down until further notice because of "swarming bees," according to park officials. It's located in the Riverside County section of the park and gives visitors sweeping views of the Coachella Valley.

The closure was instituted both to protect visitors and deprive bees of the moisture from cars and water bottles from visitors in the summer, encouraging the swarm to move on.

"Bees require this extra water to cool their hives during the hottest days," park officials said. "They will pester visitors for their water bottles, the condensation from their vehicle air conditioners and even for their sweat."

keys-view-joshua-tree-national-park
(credit: Hannah Schwalbe/National Park Service)

The overlook was already closed once this summer between June 24 and July 2, according to the Desert Sun.

It's not clear when the area may reopen, but visitors can get updates on the park's website and social media accounts.

(© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. City News Service contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.