Doi Inthanon closes two attractions after flash floods
Pha Dok Siao Nature Trail and Mae Ya Waterfall in Chiang Mai will reopen only after floodwaters recede and park officials confirm they are safe
- Doi Inthanon National Park has temporarily closed two attractions: the Pha Dok Siao Nature Trail and Mae Ya Waterfall.
- The closures were caused by flash floods resulting from prolonged heavy rain, which created fast-flowing, muddy water.
- Specific risks cited include visitors being cut off or swept away, damaged footbridges, and strong currents carrying debris at the waterfall.
- The attractions will remain closed until flood conditions subside and park officials confirm the areas are safe for visitors.
Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai has temporarily closed Pha Dok Siao Nature Trail and Mae Ya Waterfall after prolonged heavy rain triggered flash floods and sent fast-flowing, muddy water through the area. Park officials ordered the closures following an assessment of conditions and the danger to visitors. The park, which comes under the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, has deployed teams to monitor the situation.
Heavy rain sends runoff into mountain streams
Persistent heavy rain over Doi Inthanon saturated the forest catchment, sending large volumes of runoff into tributary streams, according to the report. Red-brown floodwater flowed rapidly through the affected areas, prompting officials to restrict access.
Risks at the two closed attractions
The closures cover a walking route with stream crossings and a waterfall where flows can rise rapidly during heavy rain.
- Pha Dok Siao Nature Trail: Flash floods could cut off walking routes, damage wooden and bamboo footbridges, and sweep visitors away.
- Mae Ya Waterfall: Heavy rain can cause sudden increases in flow, carrying branches, other debris and mud down the falls. Strong currents and possible landslides pose further risks.
Reopening depends on safety checks
Pha Dok Siao Nature Trail and Mae Ya Waterfall will reopen only after flood conditions return to normal and park staff confirm that access is safe.
Park authorities have asked visitors to:
- Stay out of closed areas and comply with officials’ instructions.
- Follow official announcements about conditions and reopening.
- Check the weather and opening status before travelling through the Doi Inthanon National Park Facebook page or the park’s visitor centre.
