Utah Funds National Parks to Offset Federal Shutdown Impact

In the face of the ongoing federal government shutdown, the state of Utah is taking action to keep its national parks accessible to visitors. As of November 3rd, 2025, the state is pumping $8,000 per day into maintaining a limited capacity at its five national parks, including Arches National Park.

This move comes as more than 9,000 National Park Service employees, the majority of the agency's workforce, remain furloughed across the country. With a skeleton crew of staff picking up trash, former park ranger Allyson Mathis warns that the parks are unable to fulfill their mission of preserving the land and providing a quality experience for the public.

Nonprofits have also stepped in to support the parks during the closure. At Zion National Park, the Zion Forever Project is contributing $30,000 to provide maps and other materials for visitors, as well as $20,000 to staff an information desk. However, the group's president, Natalie Britt, notes that the loss of visitor fees will have a significant and far-reaching impact.

Protesters in Moab have voiced their concerns about the shutdown's effects, fearing that with fewer rangers on duty, visitors may feel emboldened to leave a mess or engage in undesirable behavior, as seen in Joshua Tree National Park during a previous closure.

As the shutdown continues, the future of the parks and their staffing for the upcoming busy season remains uncertain. But for now, Utah's efforts to keep its national treasures accessible, albeit with some limitations, are providing a glimmer of hope for visitors like Julie Maager and Kate Mueller, who were able to enjoy Arches National Park during their trip.