"My family recently visited Rocky Mountain National Park, one of our favorite places on earth. We didn't see a ranger the whole time we were there (about 10 hours), unless you count the person in the booth who takes the admission fee. In years past the rangers were everywhere, answering questions and pointing out interesting things to see. We also noticed at Chasm Falls that the trail is badly eroded--you could easily turn an ankle in the holes in the pavement."
Dublin, Ohio
"I live in Seattle now, and just got to Mt. Rainier for the first time. One thing I was aware of is how many people went off the trail, although signs were posted everywhere. …I was shocked and annoyed that I saw no rangers all day, and I was in several areas of the park. The rest rooms at the Paradise Information Center were not much better than a gas station, and I was rather shocked overall.
All I could think of was that this was due to administrative cut backs, and lack of support for these incredible treasures. I had no idea how incredible it would be to be in the presence of this mountain and the wildlife. That park, and I can't speak of others, definitely needs rangers. I heard languages from all over the world in the Paradise Inn, and on the trail. It's an international destination. I think it makes us look bad to have no respect for our national treasures, and the wildlife it's to protect."
Seattle, Washington
"My family and I spend a lot of time in Valley Forge National Historical Park - especially in the summer. This year, due to budget cutbacks I'm sure, there are fewer rangers, more trash (which we pick up as we walk) and fewer fields mowed. The deer are actually happy about the last bit!
I truly think we would 'perish' without this wonderful natural resource. We love seeing and listening to the variety of birds as well as fox, deer and lots of other critters. We are also in touch with many reminders of our nation's beginnings and the struggle that it took to create this country, and just magnificent landscapes everywhere."
Wayne, Pennsylvania
"We went to Great Smoky Mountains for Memorial Day weekend and stayed in the campground there. … You could definitely tell that they had cut back hours due to the state of the bathrooms. When we got there on Friday night, they were clearly stocked for the entire weekend -- and by Monday morning, you could tell no one had been there to service them all weekend and they were absolutely disgusting."
Durham, North Carolina
"Bryce Canyon …has a new Visitor Center, new entrance booths, a shuttle service, and is working on new roads. However, the toilet facilities at the most popular overlooks are dismal (1 toilet, 3 urinals, no soap, etc.) Zion is very similar."
McHenry, Illinois
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