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National Park
If your upcoming summer travel plans include visiting some of the most popular national parks in the U.S., you’re in luck because the process is about to get easier.
In a shift away from recent years’ policies, Arches, Glacier, and Yosemite National Parks will no longer implement timed-entry and reservation requirements during peak visitation seasons. Advanced reservations are no longer necessary for Yosemite’s popular firefall season, a natural phenomenon that runs through Feb 26.
“We’re expanding access where conditions allow and using targeted tools only where necessary to protect visitor safety, maintain emergency access, and preserve these extraordinary places for future generations,” Acting Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife and Parks Kevin Lilly said in a news release.
While some conservation groups have expressed concerns that lifting timed reservations will lead to overcrowding that jeopardizes these natural wonders, the Department of the Interior, which announced the policy change on Feb 18, insists that the parks are still prepared for increased visitation.
“Lifting timed entry does not mean lifting management. It means parks are using the full range of tools available to balance access, safety, and resource protection,” an Interior Department spokesperson told USA TODAY.
While Arches, Glacier, and Yosemite National Parks no longer require reservations, it’s important to note that other popular national parks will still require them. That includes:
• Acadia National Park, which will require timed-entry reservations for vehicle access to Cadillac Summit Road from May 20 through Oct 25.
• Haleakalā National Park, which requires year-round reservations for viewing sunrise from its summit.
• Rocky Mountain National Park, which will require timed-entry reservations May 22 through mid-October.
• Zion National Park, which requires permits to hike Angels Landing year-round.
Travelers are always advised to check the official National Park Service website to plan their visits according to the most up-to-date information.
MC (USA) Travel Tuesday / Media Corp USA
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet offers and share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.
