Outdoor recreation is poised to break records once again this year, solidifying its popularity among Americans. The year 2022 saw over 300 million visits to U.S. national parks alone, resulting in increased traffic on roads and trails. While spending time outdoors is beneficial for physical and mental well-being, the presence of long lines and congested roads can dampen the experience. Furthermore, overcrowding poses challenges for park staff in terms of protecting wildlife, preserving delicate ecosystems, and responding to emergencies. To address these issues, some parks have started implementing timed-entry vehicle reservation systems and permits for popular trails.
It’s important to note that national parks represent just a fraction of the vast expanse of public lands in the United States. The federal government owns more than 640 million acres (2.6 million square kilometers) of land across the country. These lands serve various purposes, including logging, livestock grazing, mining, oil and gas production, wildlife preservation, and recreation – often a combination of multiple uses. In contrast, national parks are dedicated solely to safeguarding significant areas for public enjoyment. As a historian and researcher, I have delved into the history of public land management and the pivotal role national parks play in shaping landscapes throughout the Americas.
Many public lands offer prime recreational opportunities, and as a result, they too are experiencing increased visitation and congestion. Addressing these challenges requires collaboration among visitors, gateway communities, state agencies, and the outdoor industry. Individuals who enjoy hiking, fishing, backpacking, and other outdoor activities are aware of the overcrowding issues in national parks and often seek alternative locations to immerse themselves in nature, including public lands. This trend has intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic, as lockdowns and social distancing measures motivated people to explore outdoor spaces wherever possible.
The rise of remote work has also contributed to a population shift towards smaller Western towns that boast access to open spaces and reliable internet connections for videoconferencing. These emerging remote work hubs, such as Durango, Colorado, and Bend, Oregon, have been dubbed “Zoom towns,” putting a modern spin on the boomtowns that drew people westward in the 19th century. The presence of these new populations poses critical decisions for gateway communities located near popular public lands.
Outdoor recreation serves as a robust economic driver, contributing an estimated US$454 billion to the nation’s economy in 2021 – surpassing the combined economic impact of auto manufacturing and air transport. However, embracing recreational tourism can lead local communities into a phenomenon known as the “amenity trap,” where the popularity of a place threatens its sense of identity and appeal. To avoid this, communities must proactively manage growth and invest in crucial areas like housing and infrastructure to preserve their unique character and quality of life.
Public lands cater to a wide range of activities beyond peaceful hikes in the wilderness. For instance, the Phoenix District of the federal Bureau of Land Management oversees over 3 million acres in central Arizona, offering at least 14 different recreational uses, including hiking, fishing, boating, target shooting, rock collecting, and off-road vehicle riding. Not all these activities are compatible, and historically, some have not been effectively regulated. The Phoenix District has responded to issues such as unsightly litter left behind by target shooters by designating specific shooting areas, providing targets, and advising against shooting at hazardous objects or cacti.
Another recreational pursuit that presents challenges related to overcrowding is downhill skiing. Many ski resorts in the Western United States operate on public lands under permits from the managing agency, typically the U.S. Forest Service. For example, Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, a nonprofit ski slope near Boise, Idaho, implemented creative pricing structures for lift tickets to distribute crowds more evenly throughout the season. By offering discounted night skiing for younger skiers and attracting retired skiers during weekdays, the resort effectively managed traffic flow, resulting in only one instance of a full parking lot during the 2022-2023 season. Local governments can play a vital role in balancing access and implementing innovative crowd management strategies. King County in Seattle, for instance, launched Trailhead Direct, a transit-to-trails service that enhances outdoor access for city residents while alleviating congestion on busy highways and at trailhead parking lots. Additionally, towns have collaborated with federal land agencies to maintain trail systems, such as the Ridge to Rivers network outside Boise and the River Reach trails near Farmington, New Mexico. These efforts not only provide enhanced outdoor opportunities for residents but also attract businesses whose employees value a high quality of life.
For years, Western communities primarily regarded public lands as sites for mining, logging, and livestock grazing. Tensions between state and federal governments over land policies often stemmed from state-level frustration with decisions made in Washington, D.C. regarding local resources. However, there has been a notable shift in perception among Western communities. While federal control may not always be welcomed, these communities increasingly view federal lands as valuable assets that offer immense opportunities for recreation and economic growth. For instance, Idaho has invested $100 million in maintenance and expanded access to state lands, mirroring federal efforts. Currently, there is a dearth of legal guidance for recreational activities on public lands, with most regulations focusing on activities like logging, mining, and energy development. However, agencies, courts, and presidents are gradually developing what can be described as “a common law of outdoor recreation,” addressing issues of overcrowding and environmental impacts. Through proactive management of these challenges, local communities can contribute to better stewardship of our nation’s awe-inspiring public lands.
This article was originally published on The Conversation and has been republished under a Creative Commons license.
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Jessica Irvine is a tech enthusiast specializing in gadgets. From smart home devices to cutting-edge electronics, Jessica explores the world of consumer tech, offering readers comprehensive reviews, hands-on experiences, and expert insights into the coolest and most innovative gadgets on the market.
