Despite the ongoing federal government shutdown, Utah's renowned "Mighty 5" national parks – Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion – will continue to remain open and accessible to visitors, according to an official announcement from the Utah Office of Tourism. The state has taken proactive measures to ensure these iconic destinations remain operational during the federal funding disruption.
"Our priority has been and continues to be preserving our parks, maintaining the visitor experience, and ensuring Utah communities and businesses that rely on national park visitation are supported," said Natalie Randall, managing director of the Utah Office of Tourism and Film. She emphasized the state's commitment to working with various stakeholders to maintain park operations.
Randall further explained the collaborative approach being taken to address the shutdown's potential impact. "We are engaged in proactive conversations with public and private partners at all levels, offering strategic support to ensure the parks remain open with necessary resources," she added. This coordination involves multiple levels of government and private sector partnerships to maintain essential services.
Visitors planning to explore Utah's national parks during the shutdown should be aware of several important operational changes. The parks will remain open and accessible, but tourists should expect reduced services and reduced staffing levels throughout the affected areas. These limitations may impact various visitor services and facilities that are typically available during normal operations.
For the most current and up-to-date information regarding park operations and any service modifications, visitors are encouraged to check VisitUtah.com/shutdown. This dedicated resource provides real-time updates on park conditions, available services, and any temporary closures or restrictions that may be implemented during the shutdown period.
The economic significance of Utah's national parks cannot be understated, as these natural treasures generate substantial revenue for the state's economy. According to recent data, national parks are not only a treasure for their natural beauty and recreational opportunities, but they also generate real, measurable economic value. Visitor spending at Utah's national parks contributed an impressive $3.1 billion to the Utah economy in 2024, highlighting the critical importance of keeping these destinations operational.
While federal national parks face potential disruptions during the government shutdown, Utah's State Parks remain completely unaffected by the federal funding situation. These state-managed recreational areas are fully staffed and ready to welcome visitors without any service interruptions or operational changes. This provides additional outdoor recreation opportunities for tourists and residents alike during the federal shutdown period.
The state's commitment to maintaining park access demonstrates Utah's recognition of both the cultural significance and economic importance of its natural attractions. By working with various partners and stakeholders, Utah aims to minimize the impact of the federal shutdown on the tourism industry and ensure that millions of annual visitors can continue to experience the state's spectacular natural wonders without significant disruption to their travel plans.