Arches, Glacier and Rocky Mountain to Resume Timed Entry Access in 2023

The National Parks Conservation Association strongly supports the 2023 return of timed entry pilot programs, announced today for Arches, Glacier, and Rocky Mountain National Park.

Statement by Cassidy Jones, Senior Outreach and Engagement Manager for the National Parks Conservation Association

“Bringing pilot programs back to Arches, Glacier, and Rocky Mountain in 2023 allows park managers, advocates, visitors and community members more opportunities to refine these systems as they plan for permanent visitor use management solutions.

“Thanks to managed access, visitors to Arches, Glacier and Rocky Mountain saw more wildlife and wild lands than brake lights and traffic jams the last several years. Data collected thus far shows that the pilot programs are working for visitors, as 70% of Glacier Park visitors supported the reservation system during its first year alone.

“The National Parks Conservation Association applauds the Park Service for its innovative and forward-looking efforts to maintain high quality experiences for visitors to some of our most-visited parks.”

Statement by Tracy Coppola, Colorado Senior Program Manager for the National Parks Conservation Association

“In response to a nearly 50% visitation increase over the last decade, Rocky Mountain National Park successfully implemented a trial timed entry reservation system over the last three years to lessen impacts to park landscapes and visitor experiences.

“We applaud today’s announcement and will continue to support a permanent solution, working with the National Park Service, gateway community leaders, members of Congress and the public. As an advocate for Rocky Mountain and other parks across the country, we must support and learn from pilot programs and other solutions.

“The park and the people who dedicate their careers toward its protection need our support, and we owe it not only to ourselves to honor these special places, but also to future generations.”

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About the National Parks Conservation Association: Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks. NPCA and its more than 1.6 million members and supporters work together to protect and preserve our nation’s most iconic and inspirational places for future generations. For more information, visit www.npca.org