New fees are set to be implemented at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area in western Colorado. The new fees include permits for wilderness access and increased charges at group campsites. Wilderness routes on the South Rim will require permits reserved in advance, with fees ranging from $6 plus $4 per person for trips between May and October, and permits can be reserved starting in April. Group camping fees at East Elk Creek and Red Creek in Curecanti National Recreation Area will also see an increase, with charges ranging from $60 to $120 per night depending on the group size.
The changes are aimed at bringing the parks in alignment with comparable wilderness permits and group campgrounds. 80% of collected fees will remain at the parks to fund various projects such as trail rehabilitation, campground upgrades, and improvements to water and waste systems. The remaining 20% will be spread across the National Park Service.
The new fees and permits are part of an effort to manage visitor access to the parks and improve the overall experience for visitors. The changes are set to take effect soon, so visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly when visiting Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area.
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Photo credit gazette.com
