Candlestick Tower in Canyonlands National Park.
Candlestick Tower in Canyonlands National Park. Credit: NPS/Neal Herbert

Arches and Canyonlands National Parks are both preparing for a hot and busy July Fourth holiday weekend, warning guests of increased traffic, long lines at park entrances, busy trails, and limited parking.

Until Sunday, July 6th, visitors entering Arches between 7am and 4pm will need a timed entry reservation made either online at www.Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Next-day tickets are released at 7pm daily.

Those without timed entry reservations can enter the park either before 7am or after 4pm, but they may experience additional crowding. Do not plan on making a reservation at Arches’ entrance booths, as they will not be available. Reservations are not required for entrance to Canyonlands.

Arches pilot timed entry reservation system will pause for seven weeks beginning on Monday, July 7th. They will then resume on August 28th for the increased visitation expected during Labor Day Weekend and end for the year on October 31st.

Visitors should consume plenty of water and healthy snacks while avoiding strenuous hikes between 11am and 6pm. If monsoon rainstorms are in the forecast, avoid traveling on unpaved backcountry roads. Stay alert for signs of heat stress including dizziness, cramps, fatigue, headache, or irritability.

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Nolan Deck is a writer for Unofficial Networks, covering skiing and outdoor adventure. After growing up and skiing in Maine, he moved to the Denver area for college where he continues to live and work...