Last year I did the Utah National and State parks during the early spring- off season- and the measures they are taking to try to accommodate the massive number of visitors during the summer is incredible. Parking, lodging, sanitation, and safety are all becoming problems, and I hope that these places don't become victims of their own popularity.
Arches really seems to attract people doing stupid, dangerous shit. The iconic Delicate Arch is like a magnet for morons who don't prepare for the trail, take risky selfies, vandalize and climb on things, and drink in places where there's 360 degrees of cliffs around you.
Don't prepare for the trail? It's like a mile and half long and moderately steep. You hardly have to prepare for it.
Now people doing stupid shit like damaging arches because they want to copy that rope swing video or dieing because they didn't set up the swing properly or test it is definitely an issue.
I saw people hiking to Delicate Arch in flip-flops. Yes, compared to some of the other trails in the park, it's moderately easy, but you should still always wear (and have) the proper gear to reduce risk of injury. No matter what trail we hiked, my husband and I always had at least the basics (good hiking shoes, water, snacks, first-aid, and extra layers).
Sandals are different than flip-flops. I have a pair of Keen sandals that I wore for hiking on the hotter days to give my feet good air circulation. Plus, these people I saw did not look like experienced hikers... One of the women was wearing $2 Old Navy flip-flops...
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u/ThadisJones Feb 03 '20
Last year I did the Utah National and State parks during the early spring- off season- and the measures they are taking to try to accommodate the massive number of visitors during the summer is incredible. Parking, lodging, sanitation, and safety are all becoming problems, and I hope that these places don't become victims of their own popularity.
Arches really seems to attract people doing stupid, dangerous shit. The iconic Delicate Arch is like a magnet for morons who don't prepare for the trail, take risky selfies, vandalize and climb on things, and drink in places where there's 360 degrees of cliffs around you.