Free admission to national parks Saturday, record heat expected

Sep 28, 2024, 8:11 AM

Arches National Park is pictured on Saturday, April 17, 2021. (Annie Barker, Deseret News)...

Arches National Park is pictured on Saturday, April 17, 2021. (Annie Barker, Deseret News)

(Annie Barker, Deseret News)

SALT LAKE CITY — Saturday is National Public Lands Day, which means all national parks, in Utah or around the country, will not charge an entry fee.

However, some parks could be dealing with near-record or record-breaking heat as people try to take advantage of the promotion.

National Weather Service Meteorologist Alex DeSmet told KSL NewsRadio Zion National Park could break 100 degrees this weekend, while KSL meteorologists are forecasting highs in the mid-90s around Moab, near the entrances to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

Meteorologists expect Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon National Parks to be slightly more comfortable with highs in the 80’s.

DeSmet said we normally see these types of temperatures around late August.

Preparation and safety

“People have been getting used to (temperatures) maybe being a little bit cooler … but, it’s going to be pretty warm (Saturday),” said Amanda Rowland, a spokesperson for Zion National Park. “We want folks to be ready.”

Rowland told KSL NewsRadio they want people to be prepared for the heat. She and other officials urged people heading to the parks to:

  • Bring plenty of water, even more than you think you need.
  • Bring salty snacks and electrolytes.
  • Bring clothes for both warm and cold weather, since nighttime temperatures are expected to be on the cool side.
  • Take breaks.
  • Avoid strenuous activities at the hottest times of the day.
  • Wear sunblock and or clothing that can protect you from the sun.
  • Know the limits of everyone in your group.
  • Be willing to change plans so you and your group are safe and healthy.

KSL 5 TV Live

A group of cancer activists at Utah's Capitol Hill for Cancer Action Day. (American Cancer Society)...

Tamara Vaifanua

Looking Out for the Good: Cancer activists to gather with elected officials on Capitol Hill

Activists and patients will be at Utah's Capitol Hill to meet with elected officials, sharing their stories and pushing policies that aid the fight against cancer.

1 hour ago

FILE - President Donald Trump stands with Jordan's King Abdullah II at the White House, June 25, 20...

Zeke Miller, AP White House Corespondent

Trump will host Jordan’s King Abdullah II as he escalates pressure on his Gaza resettlement plan

President Donald Trump will host Jordan’s King Abdullah II at the White House as he escalates pressure on the Arab nation to take in refugees from Gaza as part of his audacious plan to remake the Middle East.

3 hours ago

Luis Rubiales enters court in Madrid, Spain on February 11, where he later testified he recieved co...

Jack Guy and Pau Mosquera, CNN

Former Spanish football chief Luis Rubiales testifies he asked for consent for World Cup kiss

Former Spanish football federation chief Luis Rubiales said Tuesday that he asked Women’s World Cup winner Jennifer Hermoso for permission before kissing her during the on-field medal ceremony for Spain’s victory in 2023.

3 hours ago

Follow @kslsports...

KSL Sports

Puka Nacua, Luka Doncic Swap Jerseys Following LA Lakers Debut

Following the much-anticipated Lakers debut of Luka Doncic, the NBA superstar swapped jerseys with fellow Los Angeles sports star Puka Nacua.

9 hours ago

Follow @kslsports...

KSL Sports

Luka, LeBron, Lakers Lambast Jazz

Luka Doncic and the LeBron James-led Los Angeles Lakers dominated the Utah Jazz 132-113 in the Slovenian guard's Hollywood debut.

10 hours ago

Follow @kslsports...

KSL Sports

Utah Jazz Fall Short, Lakers Strike Gold In Luka Doncic’s Debut

The Utah Jazz were on the wrong end of a blowout at Cypto.com Arena as the Los Angeles Lakers started the Luka Doncic era off on the right foot.

10 hours ago

Sponsored Articles

luxury living room with a classic white sofa and sofa, interior design...

Lighting Design

Revisiting home lighting trends for 2025

Looking for inspiration to revamp your home lighting? This article outlines some of the emerging lighting trends for 2025.

holiday gift basket with blue tissue paper and gingerbread cookies...

Kneaders Bakery & Cafe

Holiday hacks for a stress-free season

Get more out of your time with family and loved ones over the holidays by following these tips for a stress-free season.

2 computer techs in a computer shop holding up a computer server with the "hang loose" sign...

PC Laptops

A comprehensive guide to choosing the right computer

With these tips, choosing the right computer that fits your needs and your budget will be easier than ever.

crowds of people in a German style Christmas market...

This Is The Place Heritage Park

Celebrate Christkindlmarket at This Is The Place Heritage Park!

The Christkindlmarket is an annual holiday celebration influenced by German traditions and generous giving.

Image of pretty woman walking in snowy mountains. Portrait of female wearing warm winter earmuff, r...

Lighting Design

Brighten your mood this winter with these lighting tricks

Read our lighting tips on how to brighten your mood in the winter if you are experiencing seasonal affective disorder.

A kitchen with a washer and dryer and a refrigerator...

Appliance Man

Appliance Man: a trusted name in Utah’s home appliance industry

Despite many recent closures of local appliance stores, Appliance Man remains Utah's trusted home appliance business and is here to stay.

Free admission to national parks Saturday, record heat expected