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With the long holiday weekend approaching, it’s a perfect time to think about heading outdoors. Record numbers of visitors are flocking to America’s national parks, and you could be among them.
But with federal staff and funding cuts for the parks, you’d do best to plan ahead, as parks and recreation scholars Allie McCreary and Michael Brunson from Auburn University explain.
Thinking ahead goes beyond bringing weather-appropriate clothing and carrying the right gear to hike, paddle, climb or whatever other activities you have planned. The scholars have some recommendations for how to boost your chances of avoiding delays or crowds while still having a great time on some of the nation’s most precious public land.
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Crowds often form at popular places in U.S. national parks, like the entrance to Yosemite Valley in California.
Jim West/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Allie McCreary, Auburn University; Michael Brunson, Auburn University
There are other parts of popular areas – and different locations altogether – that can be great places for outdoor recreation and enjoyment.
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