National Park Tours Are Operating Normally Despite the Government Shutdown

Although the federal government is presently shut down, tours around the national park are still happening. Most parks are open to visitors, and tour operators report that their plans are moving forward seamlessly with neither delays nor cancellations.

Tour Operators Report No Changes

Leading travel companies, including Tauck, Intrepid Travel, and the Globus family of brands, confirmed that their national park tours have not been affected by the shutdown. Tauck emphasized that their park tours have operated as scheduled, with no changes necessary to their itineraries. Xanterra, a key concessionaire for several parks, continues to maintain public amenities, such as restrooms, in key areas.

Parks like Zion, Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Bryce, Yosemite, and Sequoia are operating without interruption. This smooth operation contrasts with the effects of the shutdown seen in other sectors.

Local Communities See Mixed Impacts

Gateway communities near national parks have experienced varying effects. In Utah, the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity has provided funding to keep visitor centers open at the state’s five national parks. As a result, Zion National Park has maintained steady visitor numbers, according to the Greater Zion Convention & Tourism Office.

However, some areas, like Montana’s Big Sky region, have reported a noticeable dip in tourism. While Big Sky typically sees slower traffic during this time of year, the shutdown may have exacerbated the decline, with many travelers mistakenly assuming the parks are closed. Local tourism leaders in Big Sky have noted that perceptions around park accessibility might be a major factor in the decrease of visitors.

Washington D.C. Experiences Increased Activity

In contrast to the downturn in certain areas, some regions are actually seeing more activity. For instance, Intrepid’s Urban Adventures day tours in Washington, D.C., have seen an uptick in popularity. With many museums closed due to the shutdown, small-group tours have stepped in to offer a viable alternative for tourists who would have otherwise visited cultural institutions.

Tips for Travelers During the Shutdown

1. Check Official Park Websites: Before booking your trip, always refer to the official government websites for up-to-date information on park operations. Many parks are still fully operational, but it’s always a good idea to confirm in advance.
2. Expect Limited Services: While many parks remain open, certain amenities like ranger-led programs and visitor services may be limited due to staffing shortages. Be prepared for fewer interpretive programs and services.
3. Plan for Busy Parks: Popular parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite continue to see high visitor numbers. If you’re planning to visit, it’s wise to book your tours and accommodations in advance, as some spots may fill up quickly.
4. Support Local Communities: The shutdown has affected local businesses, so consider supporting nearby towns and gateway areas by dining at local restaurants, shopping, or booking additional tours.
5. Understand the Impact on Park Amenities: Some amenities like campgrounds, restrooms, and stores may operate with reduced hours or availability. Check your destination’s official park pages for the latest details.

Conclusion

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National Park tours are still mostly unbothered. Zion, Yellow Stone and and Yosemite parks are still opened to visitors. Many visitors in trying to go to the parks should consult with the official government sites to get their information.

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