Arches National Park will start requiring a scheduled entry time in 2022 as a result of high visitation. (Credit - Arches National Park)
MOAB, Utah — Arches National Park introduced a timed pilot program to prevent overcrowding and implemented it on April 3.
The park set a record for most visitors at a park in a year with nearly 2 million people. This is not the first move made by the park to control the huge crowds. They previously introduced a limit to the number of cars allowed in the park at a time. A day before implementing the system, the park reached capacity before 10 a.m.
The new system requires park-goers to make a reservation at least one day in advance. The guest receives a timed entry ticket after making a reservation. This ticket is accepted between the hours of 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. Guests can stay for the remainder of the day if they please after entering.
Vicki Varela, Utah Office of Tourism Managing Director, said the new system “has the potential to help visitors plan carefully for thoughtful exploration of Utah. This can benefit the community and ensure continuous access to our cherished parks and outdoor recreation.”