Over the past two years Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) has been piloting a timed entry reservation system for access to the park during the peak summer season. The pilot system was unveiled during the pandemic as a way to help limit the spread of the virus but also to help alleviate issues of crowding that had been brewing for many years prior. The goal of these pilot years was to collect data to help the park make informed decisions when it comes to a long term, more permanent solution.
As of May 2021, RMNP has officially kicked off the multiyear process to decide what visitor use strategies they will implement for the foreseeable future. One of the proposed strategies is a permanent timed entry reservation system. While the BCC is excited to see the park trying to address issues of overcrowding and resource damage, we have concerns about whether or not these long term solutions will consider the use patterns and needs of climbers for years to come.
RMNP is a world class destination for alpine bouldering and multi pitch trad climbing and we want to make sure climbers voices are heard in this process. BCC wants to hear from you about your experiences with the RMNP pilot reservation system and what aspects you think are important for all climbers long term. Fill out our questionnaire here:
We also encourage all climbers who recreate in RMNP to consider submitting public comment on the park’s plans. To learn more background information on the Day Use Visitor Access planning process and submit your official comments, visit the National Park website.
Comments are due by July 26th!