OUTDOORS + RECREATION

Arches National Park seeks public input to manage crowds

Oct 26, 2023, 10:00 PM | Updated: Oct 27, 2023, 12:26 pm

Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Arches is looking for input from the public to solve an over...

MOAB, Utah — Arches National Park is reaching out to the public for feedback in their efforts to manage the surging crowds of visitors.

The park aims to enhance the overall visitor experience and invites suggestions from the public.

Karen Garthwait, the Public Affairs Specialist at Arches National Park, expressed their eagerness to receive input from visitors.

“We would love your feedback on the things that we’ve been trying, any other ideas that folks might also want to suggest,” she said.

To gather valuable insights and suggestions from the public, Arches National Park has set up a platform for submitting comments. Visitors are encouraged to share their thoughts and recommendations, which will be accepted until December 1st.

Over the past few years, the park has implemented various strategies to solve the issue of overcrowding. One of these measures was the introduction of a timed-entry pilot system. Before this, they experimented with temporary gate closures.

The need for such measures has become increasingly evident as the park’s attendance has risen 73% over the last decade.

Arches National Park now plays host to over 2 million visitors annually, making it vital for park authorities to ensure that the park experience remains enjoyable and sustainable.

To achieve their goal of increasing visitor experience and managing growing crowds, Arches National Park aims to strike a balance that preserves the park’s natural beauty while accommodating the increasing number of visitors.

The park’s commitment to public involvement showcases a proactive approach to finding innovative solutions for one of America’s most beloved national parks.

Related reading: Arches National Park ends ticketing system

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Arches National Park seeks public input to manage crowds