Check out Utah’s national parks today for free

SALT LAKE CITY —  National parks throughout the country, including “Utah’s Mighty 5”  are waiving entrance fees today to celebrate the anniversary of the passage of the Great American Outdoors Act.

Utah’s parks include Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Park. 

The Great American Outdoors Act was passed in 2020 and set apart nearly $3 billion for maintenance projects for National Parks and other public lands.  The Secretary of the Interior declared that Aug. 4 would be a free entrance day into the National Parks for the foreseeable future.

This Thurs, Aug. 4th is a ✨fee-free✨ day! Celebrate the Great American Outdoors Act by exploring your favorite @NatlParkService, @BLMNational, and @USFWS places! #RecreateResponsibly #GreatAmericanOutdoorsDay #GAOAAnniversary #GreatAmericanOutdoorsAct pic.twitter.com/R2qyeP7dOx

— Recreate Responsibly (@RecreateInfo) August 2, 2022

 

What to know before you go to national parks:

Arches National Park is the only one of the Mighty 5 to require a timed entry reservation. The reservation system allows the park to manage crowds and improve the visitor experience. 

Be prepared for weather conditions. Utah has seen record-breaking heat this summer. Visitors are encouraged to bring plenty of water, wear proper clothing and seek out shade when possible. 

Southern Utah can be prone to flash floods. Checking the National Weather Service before heading out is advised.

Make sure you are prepared to “trash your trash” and pack out anything you pack in. 

For more tips on visiting Utah’s parks go to visitutah.com.

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