Off-Road Access Could Be Expanded In Glen Canyon National Park, Utah

Off-highway activity is not a crime. The sport or hobby, depending upon the form in which you enjoy it, like all others, has rules that need to be followed. “In 2008, the Park Service agreed to crack down on illegal off-highway vehicle use in the Glen Canyon Area.” said Ryan Heinsius of Arizona Public Radio. “According to the Arizona Daily Sun, the move came as a result of a lawsuit brought by three conservation groups.”

With more than 1.2 million acres, Glen Canyon National Park is an adventurer’s paradise. Engulfing Lake Powell, Glen Canyon extends from southern Utah to below the Arizona state line. With many water- and land-based avenues of recreation, the national park is a popular destination. Unfortunately though, illegal use and activities have forced the Park Service to take action.

The environmental impact statement put out by the Park Service includes five alternatives outlining how Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) use is handled. Slightly out of the norm for National Park policy these days, Glen Canyon may actually expand its Off Highway Vehicle area.

The preferred alternative in the pending plans would open up 17 locations to OHV use.  “Park officials say the plan increases off-road access in high-use areas and adds speed limits, quiet hours, noise restrictions and new signage.” says Heinsius. “A spokesman for the Park Service also said the proposal will attract a wider range of park users.”

The alternatives are available to the public in PDF form on the National Park Service website until March 4, 2014. For more information, visit www.nps.gov.com. Images provided by the National Park Service website and Glen Canyon Facebook page.