Canyonlands National Park (Utah) advises visitors to be prepared for an influx of traffic, overcrowded trails, and limited parking this Memorial Day weekend. Visitors should prepare ahead and plan backup routes if they are planning to visit Canyonlands.
Visitors arriving at the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands could face up to two hours of delay for entry into the park. The parking lots and trails within the park could be packed, and the facilities may be busy.
“Memorial Day weekend is typically our busiest weekend of the year,” said Superintendent Patricia Trap. “We recommend planning ahead and checking our websites and social media to help you have an enjoyable holiday.”
Park rangers request the vehicles at the entrance gate to keep up with the traffic waiting in line and to be prepared to pay. Credit cards are preferred. Current annual pass holders must have their passes and ID ready.
The park entrance roads do not have any toilets or drinking water facilities. Visitors are advised to park in designated areas only and not unsafely or any location that can damage park plants or soil. Reservations for timed entry are not necessary at Canyonlands.
Visitors must safely plan by bringing food and drinks, as well as strong footwear and sun protection. Visitors are encouraged to visit the park website or Twitter account for updates on current information and road conditions before traveling to the park.
For those looking to avoid the crowds, the Moab area offers additional hiking on BLM and state lands outside Canyonlands. For more information, visit the Canyonlands website or social media pages: go.nps.gov/CANYconditions, twitter.com/CanyonlandsNPS, facebook.com/CanyonlandsNPS.