Thursday, April 7, 2011

Red Rock Canyon Will Close if Government Shutdown Occurs

What does this mean? As of Friday April 8th, 2011, the federal government is schedule to shutdown as I write this. If this occurs, Red Rock Canyon will close the Scenic Loop Road.
How will this effect you?
Only hikes that start along the Scenic Loop will be closed to cars. This means you would have to walk in from State Route 159, not a good alternative.
Calico Basin parking area would be closed, but you can park outside the gate, so that's no big deal.
Kraft Mtn parking area would probably be closed, but you can park outside the gate, so that's no big deal.
First Creek parking area will most likely be open.
South Red Rock should also be open.
Bottom line: Hikes along the Scenic Loop would require a very long walk in and out. Best to hike at First Creek, South Red Rock, or Calico Basin until the government reopens.

2 comments:

  1. How would this affect hiking in the Mount Charleston area? I'm assuming if there aren't any gates to close and lock, trailheads would still be accessible even with a shutdown. For example, how would they deny access to the north loop trailhead.

    This is all a total bummer. I have 2 3-day weekends planned for Zion next month and was hoping to try to get to the Kolob Arch during one of the trips!

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  2. Mt. Charleston does not have a scenic loop or an amenity fee. So, no affect. Hopefully the government shut down will not occur or not last long.

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