Visitors to Utah’s national parks were asked to report any signs that cast Americans in a negative light or failed to emphasize the beauty of the landscapes. The request drew over 35,000 comments, with many expressing frustration and criticism.

Comments from Visitors

Many visitors to Utah’s national parks, including Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Capitol Reef National Park, responded to the request with comments that ranged from impassioned to humorous. Some visitors expressed frustration with the request, while others used the opportunity to make light of it.

One visitor to Zion National Park wrote, ‘Feeling frustrated that I am watching rangers out in the park hanging up these feedback signs when there’s one entrance gate open that takes 30 minutes to get through at minimum.’ Another visitor commented, ‘Those towering cliffs? Too perfect. I’m not saying it’s alien architecture… but it’s definitely alien architecture.’

Common Themes

Despite the varied responses, some common themes emerged. Many visitors expressed support for the national parks and their rangers, while also criticizing the current administration’s public-lands policies. Some visitors requested improvements to trail signs, visitor centers, and other park facilities.

The National Park Service did not respond to questions about what it planned to do with the responses. However, it is unlikely that the comments will have a significant impact on the agency’s policies or practices.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.