UPDATE: As the government shutdown continues, many of the nation’s most popular national parks, including Yosemite and Yellowstone, remain open to visitors, but with significant limitations on services. Visitors planning trips should be aware of what’s available—and what isn’t—before heading out.
Just announced today, the National Park Service (NPS) confirms that the ten most visited national parks are accessible, yet they are operating with drastically reduced staff. With over 9,000 of the NPS’s 14,500 employees furloughed, basic services such as trash collection and restroom maintenance may be severely impacted.
Why this matters: For outdoor enthusiasts, the situation presents both an opportunity and a challenge. While parks like Grand Canyon and Great Smoky Mountains are open, many visitor centers remain closed, and entrance fees are not being collected. Visitors are encouraged to proceed with caution as park staff, who are essential for maintaining safety and providing information, are scarce.
Here’s a breakdown of the status of the top national parks during the shutdown:
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Located on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the park has secured funding to maintain full operations through at least October 19, 2023. Visitor centers are open, allowing visitors to enjoy the fall foliage without restriction.
2. Yosemite National Park: In California, Yosemite is open with roads, trails, and campgrounds accessible. However, visitor centers are closed, and while law enforcement and emergency services are operational, many typical services are suspended.
3. Yellowstone National Park: Open for business, Yellowstone is largely supported by the nonprofit Yellowstone Forever, which has kept three visitor centers functioning. Lodging and dining services are still operational, but visitor guidance may be limited.
4. Grand Canyon National Park: Arizona’s iconic canyon is accessible with campgrounds open, yet visitor centers are closed. The nonprofit Grand Canyon Conservancy has reported that while many services are available through concessionaires, park operations are limited.
5. Zion National Park: In Utah, Zion remains open with some visitor centers operational. The park is utilizing state funding to maintain essential services like shuttles and restroom facilities.
6. Acadia National Park: Despite being open, Acadia’s visitor centers are closed, and the park emphasizes limited services. The peak fall foliage season is crucial for the local economy, making this shutdown particularly impactful.
7. Grand Teton National Park: Wyoming’s Grand Teton is open, but visitor centers and ranger programs are not available. Entrance gates are unstaffed, raising concerns for visitor safety.
8. Olympic National Park: In Washington, while the park remains open, visitor centers are closed, and no entrance fees are being collected. The nonprofit partner has advised against visiting due to limited resources.
9. Glacier National Park: Open with minimal staffing, Glacier is accessible but visitor centers are closed. Campgrounds that remain operational will have limited services.
10. Rocky Mountain National Park: Colorado’s park is open, yet visitor centers are closed. The state is using existing funds to ensure the park remains operational despite staff shortages.
Visitors are urged to check specific park websites for updates, as conditions may change rapidly. According to the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), the confusion surrounding which parks are open and which services are available is a significant concern. “The shutdown is leaving national parks without the experts needed to protect fragile ecosystems,” said Kyle Groetzinger, NPCA spokesperson.
The current situation highlights the vulnerability of these treasured landscapes. As parks continue to welcome visitors, the NPCA urges everyone to consider alternative ways to connect with nature while minimizing the burden on park staff.
For those planning to visit, stay informed and prepare for a different kind of experience at these beloved national parks. Share this information to help fellow outdoor enthusiasts navigate the ongoing government shutdown.