Being that National Parks* are a favorite stop for travelers, you may be wondering when the National Parks will reopen. Read further to find which parks you will be able to add to your “must-see” list as they slowly begin to reopen.
The Points Guy ~ ” The National Park Service, according to the Associated Press, is testing public access at a handful of major parks. Acting Park Service Director David Vela told the AP that travelers should expect “a different normal” — and manage expectations accordingly. Park visitors need to know that some areas and facilities may not be accessible.
Closed since March 24, the most popular national park in the country, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, reopened many roads and trails on May 9 — and its popularity hasn’t waned. Travelers flocked to the park on Mother’s Day weekend in cars from at least two dozen states, according to the Associated Press. A park spokesperson, Dana Soehn, described a scene of crowded parking lots; visitors breezing past barricades without personal protective equipment to still-closed areas and teeming trails.
Sunrise at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Image by David Mark from Pixabay
‘It seemed like people were not respecting our suggestion that they avoid crowded areas,’ Soehn told the AP. They can push the social distancing message, but Soehn said park rangers won’t be policing visitors.
For at least two weeks, campgrounds, picnic pavilions, visitor centers and some roads will remain closed. Maintenance workers will be required to wear personal protective equipment and group sizes will be limited. Visitors may also notice new plexiglass barriers at visitor centers.
Beyond the mist-shrouded mountains crossing Tennessee and North Carolina, other major parks are taking steps toward reopening. Many, however, remain closed. Here’s what to expect at 17 of the country’s most popular national parks.” ~ The Points Guy
Please click on the following link to read the full article for park information.
*There is a free annual pass for current U.S. military members and dependents in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard as well as Reserve and National Guard members. Passes may be obtained in person at a federal recreation site by showing a CAC or Military ID.
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