National Parks Reopening: When Will Nature Be Open Again?

Thanks for asking about when national parks will re-open. According to the National Post, there is likely an announcement forthcoming that Canadian National Parks will resume operations shortly, albeit with some restrictions. The re-opening of parks like these is a testament to the growing understanding of the health benefits provided by nature. So, the short answer is that parks will soon resume operations.

Health Benefits of the Outdoors

Researchers have found that fresh air and exercise boost the immune system, validating your grandmother's advice. As a recent piece in the Atlantic highlighted, 'The outdoors and sunshine are such strong factors in fighting viral infections that a 2009 study of the extraordinary success of outdoor hospitals during the 1918 influenza epidemic suggested that during the next pandemic, we should encourage the public to spend as much time outdoors as possible.' This science underscores the importance of parks and natural areas for public health.

Reopening in Ontario and Other Regions

In Ontario, High Park in Toronto—one of the largest city parks—re-opened today, welcoming visitors with some restrictions in place. Ontario's provincial parks are currently open for daytime use, but camping remains prohibited for now.

The reopening process is uneven, with some parks re-opening earlier than others. High Park re-opened while the cherry blossoms were in bloom, ensuring social distancing was possible. Similarly, in Utah, parks like Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef have re-opened recently, offering unique experiences to solitary visitors. Zion and Great Smokey Mountains National Park are making plans to open certain day-use areas, but popular parks like Yosemite might remain closed until June or July.

Responsible Reopening and Visitor Tips

The reopening of national parks is not without concerns. While it's crucial to enjoy the outdoors, it's equally important to be aware of the potential risks. Many parks are served by gateway communities that are often rural. For example, the Navajo reservation in northern Arizona has seen a significant impact from the virus, raising concerns about spreading the virus through travel. To mitigate these risks, visitors should consider driving directly to the park without making unnecessary stops.

For those eager to experience the outdoors, state parks, national forests, and BLM sites often offer beautiful alternatives. National forests, in particular, are often just as attractive as national parks but less crowded. Furthermore, the cost of entry is usually free, and camping is often inexpensive. Even some national wildlife refuges provide free campsites, some of which are already open. For instance, I stayed in one last week and encountered only two other campers.

BLM land, while not as popular as national parks, offers unique experiences and remains largely open. Additionally, state parks in various regions were never completely closed to the public; however, visitor centers, playgrounds, and restrooms may have been shuttered.

By July, it is likely that all national parks will be open again, though the reopening will be gradual, with each park opening at a different pace. It is essential to check each park's website for the latest updates and guidelines. Enjoy these beautiful natural spaces responsibly, and prioritize public health and safety.