THE GOVERNMENT NEWS DESKSTATE & NATION TRAVEL
National parks, historic sites and practical visitor updates, directly from the National Park Service.
NPS sources checked 10/3/2026, 11:42:41 AM Eastern
The Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway is partially closed. There will be no through traffic until further notice. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive remains open to shuttles and lodge guests.
Official NPS sourceWall Street is closed until further notice. Other park trails are open but muddy, and hikers are urged to use caution.
Official NPS sourceThe Rainbow Park Road, Rainbow Park Campground, and Rainbow Park Boat Ramp are closed as of September 25, 2026 due to significant storm damage until repairs are completed, likely through spring of 2027. The 3/4-mile Rainbow Park Road is closed to vehicles from the junction with the Island Park Road to the Rainbow Park Campground and boat ramp. The Island Park Road remains open to Ruple Ranch.
Official NPS sourceThe Watchman Trail is closed pending repairs.
Official NPS sourceFires are only allowed in established fire pits.
Official NPS sourceThe upper loop of the Lees Ferry Campground is closed for renovations. Large equipment will be paving at the Lees Ferry campground. Do not enter construction area.
Official NPS sourcePlanning to visit Canyonlands this year? To ensure the best experience, please anticipate potentially long wait times at the entrance station. If overlook or trailhead parking is full, plan to return a little later. Please avoid parking on vegetation and roadways to help preserve this beautiful place for everyone to enjoy.
Official NPS sourceVehicles that exceed length, width, height, or weight limits cannot travel between Canyon Junction and the park's East Entrance. See the current limits on the page linked below.
Official NPS sourcePlanning to visit Arches this year? To ensure the best experience, please anticipate potentially long wait times at the entrance station. If trailhead parking is full, plan to return a little later. Please avoid parking on vegetation and roadways to help preserve this beautiful place for everyone to enjoy.
Official NPS sourceThe voicemail for the main park phone line (970-562-4282) is not functioning reliably. People are advised to call during business hours in order to speak with a ranger.
Official NPS sourceCampfires are only allowed in designated fire rings at Watchman Campground, South Campground, and Lava Point Campground. Smoking near vegetation is not allowed. Fireworks are never allowed within the park.
Official NPS sourceAt current lake levels, Rainbow Bridge docks do not reach the land. Dock-to-trail access to Rainbow Bridge will not be available until water levels rise again. Restrooms at the dock will remain open. This alert will stay up until the situation changes. Check the link for current lake information.
Official NPS source
NPS is making enhancements and planning additional improvements at Stateline, Bullfrog, and Antelope Point within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. These efforts are designed to preserve and maximize boating access wherever water levels continue to fluctuate.
Official NPS source
The Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel will experience temporary nighttime closures for a Utah Department of Transportation construction project. Closures will take place in late September of 2026.
Official NPS source
Arches National Park is excited to welcome the Moab-Arches shuttle service to the park! The new service, initiated by Grand County, hopes to reduce traffic congestion and provide a new way for visitors to experience the park.
Official NPS sourceCapitol Reef National Park will host the return of its popular Reef Ride cycling event on Sept. 19 and 26, offering visitors a rare chance to experience the Scenic Drive free of vehicle traffic. From sunrise until 3 p.m. each day, the road will be reserved for cyclists — including Class 1, 2 and 3 e bikes — along with hikers and runners.
Official NPS source
Due to lower temperatures accompanied by higher humidity, fire danger has moderated across southeastern Utah. Beginning at 12:01 a.m. Friday, September 4, Arches and Canyonlands national parks, along with Natural Bridges and Hovenweep national monuments, will rescind fire restrictions.
Official NPS source
The Southeast Utah Group of parks will accept applications for the 2027 Community Artist in the Parks (CAIP) program September 1 to September 30, 2026.
Official NPS source
The National Park Service is asking for the public’s help in locating Patrick J. Trier, a 71-year-old white male who was last seen in Salina, Utah, on Sunday, August 16.
Official NPS source
The National Park Service has selected Allana Olbrich as the new superintendent of Cedar Breaks National Monument. Olbrich brings nearly two decades of experience in park operations, leadership, administration, and resource stewardship.
Official NPS source
Visitors to Bryce Canyon National Park can enjoy sweeping views of the park’s remarkable geodiversity while taking advantage of cooler temperatures at overlooks that sit near 8,000 feet. When surrounding areas reach triple-digit heat, many of the park’s viewpoints can be up to 20 degrees cooler, offering an appealing retreat for those seeking fresh air and dramatic scenery.
Official NPS source
As high temperatures continue, Arches and Canyonlands national parks urge visitors to prepare for extreme heat during summer visits.
Official NPS source
While visiting Zion National Park from July through September can bring adventure, it may also include rapidly changing weather. Clear morning skies can quickly build into intense afternoon thunderstorms — transforming the landscape and creating serious hazards. The National Park Service urges visitors to stay informed and be ready for sudden weather changes, including the potential for flash floods.
Official NPS source
Starting today, Friday, July 17, UT 211 will be open to the Canyonlands National Park boundary (The Needles district entrance). Monticello Field Office of Bureau of Land Management Lands north of UT 211 will also be reopened.
Official NPS source
As part of ongoing response efforts to the Babylon Fire, fire suppression aircraft will be scooping water from Lake Powell between Good Hope Bay and Castle Butte to refill tanks as part of ongoing firefighting operations.
Official NPS source
Canyonlands National Park will continue the temporary closure of The Needles district until further notice due to the Babylon Fire near Blanding, Utah.
Official NPS source
If your plans for this Independence Day Weekend include visiting Zion National Park, remember to plan for the heat and crowds as much as you’re planning to have fun.
Official NPS source
Effective immediately, Canyonlands National Park has temporarily closed The Needles district until further notice due to the Babylon Fire near Blanding, UT. The Babylon Fire is located within Bears Ears National Monument and is not currently burning within Canyonlands National Park.
Official NPS source
Fire danger is increasing in southeastern Utah due to prolonged drought and rising temperatures. On Friday June 26, 2026, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Hovenweep National Monument, and Natural Bridges National Monument will increase fire restrictions.
Official NPS source
Superintendent Phil Akers announced today that restrictions on open fires will go into effect on Friday June 26, 2026, at 12:01 am.
Official NPS sourceLearn about cultures that call this place home. Meet at the Petroglyph Panel boardwalk. Ranger program schedules are also posted on bulletin boards at the visitor center and campground. Program topics may change. Programs may be cancelled due to weather or emergencies. Check at visitor center for updated daily program offerings.
Official NPS sourceJoin a 15-minute Ranger Talk, a short and engaging program highlighting Cedar Breaks’ natural and cultural history. Topics vary daily and are Ranger’s Choice, covering everything from wildflowers and wildlife to geology and human history.
Official NPS sourceHopi glass artist Ramson Lomatewama is coming to demonstrate at Natural Bridges and Hovenweep National Monuments! Natural Bridges: September 24th - 27th (9am-4pm daily) Hovenweep: October 1st - 4th (9am - 4pm daily) Ramson is an award-winning glass artist who creates his art in his glassblowing studio, Hotevilla Glassworks, atop third mesa on Hopiland. He's been blowing glass for more than 25 years and was a stained-glass artist before that. Before working with glass, Ramson was an educator. He taught elementary, middle, and high school before retiring from North Central College where he taught sociology. Ramson's work is a direct reflection of his upbringing within Hopi culture. All aspects of his work speak to his connection with his history, the Hopi landscape, and his personal interpretation of living his traditional life. Ramson is an active member of his community, both in ceremonies and in service to others. We're honored to have Ramson at these sites demonstrating his gifts and hope you get the chance to make it out to meet him! Thank you to the Friends of Arches and Canyonlands Parks (foacp.org) for making this program possible.
Official NPS sourceMeet at the Gifford House. Learn about the night sky and view celestial wonders above Capitol Reef. Dress warmly and bring a headlamp or flashlight (a red light if you have one) -- the park is dark at night! Extra parking available across the street and at picnic area. Programs may be cancelled due to weather or emergencies. Check at visitor center for updated daily program offerings.
Official NPS sourceMeet outside the Gifford House for an easy to moderate one-hour walk with a ranger. Bring water; wear good shoes and sun protection. Parking available across the street in the dirt lot. Programs may be cancelled due to weather or emergencies. Check at the Visitor Center for updated program listings.
Official NPS sourceWatch Community Artist in the Parks Chrissy Kinslow create works of art inspired by the park's varied landscapes. Or, join her for a side-by-side creative endeavor. (Some art supplies may be available to borrow, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own.) Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
Official NPS sourceJoin a ranger to learn about creatures and landscapes of Capitol Reef's deep past. Meet outside the Ripple Rock Nature Center at 11:00 am. 30 minutes long.
Official NPS sourceWatch Community Artist in the Parks Chrissy Kinslow create works of art inspired by the park's varied landscapes. Or, join her for a side-by-side creative endeavor. (Some art supplies may be available to borrow, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own.) Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
Official NPS sourceWatch Community Artist in the Parks Chrissy Kinslow create works of art inspired by the park's varied landscapes. Or, join her for a side-by-side creative endeavor. (Some art supplies may be available to borrow, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own.) Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
Official NPS sourceTypically offered year-round at sunset as weather permits. Those planning to join a ranger-led full moon hike at Bryce Canyon National Park can make reservations online via Recreation.gov . Tickets for each month’s hike are released in two phases, 14 and 5 days in advance. This is a "ranger's choice" hike and can range from an easy hike along the rim of the plateau to a more strenuous hike that descends down into the canyon along steep and rocky trails. More information will be given on the day of the event. Hikes are typically 1 to 2 miles. For more information on full moon hikes, including schedules and how to participate, please visit our Full Moon Hikes page. Due to the nature of this special activity all participants must agree to the following rules: Children 7 and younger are not permitted. Hiking boots or hiking shoes (lug soles) in good condition are required for your safety and the safety of Park Staff and other Participant(s). White light flashlights, headlamps are not allowed to be used during the hike (you may bring them for later use). Red light flashlights and headlamps are permitted as necessary. Flash photography may be permitted under key restrictions. Bring drinking water and a jacket - night time temperatures can be cold. Due to steep and rocky trails this activity is not wheelchair accessible. Pets are not allowed. Windchill will cancel this event.
Official NPS sourceHear from Community Artist in the Parks Chrissy Kinslow about her six-month term creating works of art inspired by Southeast Utah national parks' varied landscapes. She will share some of her favorite stories and favorite images, discuss her artistic process, and answer questions about the program. This event will be held at the Moab Information Center in downtown Moab, UT.
Official NPS sourceTypically offered year-round at sunset as weather permits. Those planning to join a ranger-led full moon hike at Bryce Canyon National Park can make reservations online via Recreation.gov . Tickets for each month’s hike are released in two phases, 14 and 5 days in advance. This is a "ranger's choice" hike and can range from an easy hike along the rim of the plateau to a more strenuous hike that descends down into the canyon along steep and rocky trails. More information will be given on the day of the event. Hikes are typically 1 to 2 miles. For more information on full moon hikes, including schedules and how to participate, please visit our Full Moon Hikes page. Due to the nature of this special activity all participants must agree to the following rules: Children 7 and younger are not permitted. Hiking boots or hiking shoes (lug soles) in good condition are required for your safety and the safety of Park Staff and other Participant(s). White light flashlights, headlamps are not allowed to be used during the hike (you may bring them for later use). Red light flashlights and headlamps are permitted as necessary. Flash photography may be permitted under key restrictions. Bring drinking water and a jacket - night time temperatures can be cold. Due to steep and rocky trails this activity is not wheelchair accessible. Pets are not allowed. Windchill will cancel this event.
Official NPS sourceNational Recreation Area
Encompassing over 1.25 million acres, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area offers unparalleled opportunities for water-based & backcountry recreation. The recreation area stretches for hundreds of miles from Lees Ferry in Arizona to the Orange Cliffs of southern Utah, encompassing scenic vistas, geologic wonders, and a vast panorama of human history.
Arizona · UtahNational Historic Trail
Follow the routes of mule pack trains across the Southwest on the Old Spanish National Historic Trail between Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Los Angeles, California. New Mexican traders moved locally produced merchandise across what are now six states to exchange for mules and horses.
Arizona · California · Colorado · Nevada · New Mexico · UtahNational Historic Trail
Follow in the footsteps of over 250,000 emigrants who traveled to the gold fields and rich farmlands of California during the 1840s and 1850s: the greatest mass migration in American history. The California National Historic Trail is over 5,000 miles long and covers portions of 10 states. Step into history along more than 1,000 miles of ruts and traces from travelers and their overland wagons.
California · Colorado · Idaho · Kansas · Missouri · Nebraska · Nevada · Oregon · Utah · WyomingNational Historic Trail
It is hard to believe that young men once rode horses to carry mail from Missouri to California in the unprecedented time of only 10 days. This relay system along the Pony Express National Historic Trail in eight states was the most direct and practical means of east-west communications before the telegraph.
California · Colorado · Kansas · Missouri · Nebraska · Nevada · Utah · WyomingNational Monument
150 million years ago, dinosaurs roamed here. Their fossils are still embedded in the rocks. Today, mountains, desert, and rivers flowing in canyons support a variety of life. Petroglyphs reveal the lives and connections of Indigenous people to this land. Homesteaders and outlaws found refuge here. Whether your passion is science, adventure, history, or scenery, Dinosaur offers much to explore.
Colorado · UtahNational Monument
Hovenweep preserves six prehistoric sites built between 1200 and 1300 CE which may have served as ceremonial centers. Explore a variety of structures, including multistory towers perched on canyon rims and balanced on boulders. The construction and attention to detail will leave you marveling at the skill and motivation of the builders.
Colorado · UtahNational Historic Trail
Explore the Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail across five states to see the 1,300-mile route traveled by Mormons who fled Nauvoo, Illinois, to the Great Salt Lake Valley in 1846-1847.
Illinois · Iowa · Nebraska · Utah · WyomingNational Park
Discover a landscape of contrasting colors, land forms, and textures unlike any other. The park has over 2,000 natural stone arches, hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive rock fins, and giant balanced rocks. This red-rock wonderland will amaze you with its formations, refresh you with its trails, and inspire you with its sunsets.
UtahNational Park
Hoodoos (irregular columns of rock) exist on every continent, but here is the largest concentration found anywhere on Earth. Situated along a high plateau at the top of the Grand Staircase, the park's high elevations include numerous life communities, fantastic dark skies, and geological wonders that defy description.
UtahNational Park
Canyonlands is a wilderness of canyons, buttes, and spires carved by the Colorado River and Green River. The park is divided into four distinct districts; no roads join them together. The districts share similar desert ecosystems, but each one provides unique opportunities for adventure and discovery.
UtahNational Park
Located in south-central Utah in the heart of red rock country, Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden treasure filled with cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges in the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth) extending almost 100 miles.
UtahNational Monument
Crowning the Grand Staircase, Cedar Breaks sits at over 10,000 feet and looks down into a half-mile deep geologic amphitheater. Come wander among timeless bristlecone pines, stand in lush meadows of wildflowers, ponder crystal-clear night skies and experience the richness of our subalpine forest.
UtahNational Historical Park
One of the greatest technological achievements of the 19th century is the completion of the first transcontinental railroad across the United States. Visitors to the park can see the location of the Last Spike Site, 1869 railroad construction features, walk or drive on the original railroad grade, and get an up close view of Victorian era replica locomotives.
UtahNational Monument
Three majestic natural bridges invite you to ponder the power of water in a landscape usually defined by its absence. View them from an overlook, or hit the trails and experience their grandeur from below. Declared a National Monument in 1908, the bridges are named "Kachina," "Owachomo" and "Sipapu" in honor of the Ancestral Puebloans who once made this place their home.
UtahNational Monument
Rainbow Bridge is one of the world's largest known natural bridges. The span has undoubtedly inspired people throughout time--from the neighboring Native American tribes who consider Rainbow Bridge sacred, to the thousands of visitors from around the world who visit it each year. Please visit Rainbow Bridge in a spirit that honors and respects the cultures to whom it is sacred.
UtahNational Monument
The visitor center, caves, and cave tours have not yet opened for the 2026 season. Hike your way past stunning vistas to explore a hidden underground world. Taste the thrill of caving as you twist and bend to enter beautifully decorated rooms. Learn the science behind formations and hear stories of cave exploration and preservation. Experience and discover as you go – geologic mysteries await
UtahNational Park
Follow the paths where people have walked for thousands of years. Gaze up at massive sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that soar into a brilliant blue sky. Experience the tall, stretching walls of a narrow slot canyon. Zion’s unique array of plants and animals will enchant you as you absorb the rich history of the past and enjoy the excitement of present-day adventures.
UtahDestination directory sourced from NPS state listings, October 3, 2026. Official NPS directory