"That in order to preserve an area in the State of Utah possessing superlative scenic, scientific, and archeologic features for the inspiration, benefit and use of the public, there is hereby established the Canyonlands National Park..."
This passage from the public law passed by Congress in 1964 set aside a remarkable landscape containing much of the Colorado and Green River basins around their confluence. Many documents guide the management of this area. The ones available here are intended to publicize management plans and demonstrate how park operations are structured toward achieving the NPS mission. Also included are documents addressing regulations on specific activities within Canyonlands. All require for viewing.
Administrative History
From Controversy to Compromise to Cooperation: The Administrative History of Canyonlands National Park offers an in-depth look at how the park was created and the events that have shaped it (311 pages). [20mb PDF File]
Fire and Fuels Management Plan
Main Document [519k PDF file]
Appendix [723k PDF file]
Long-Range Interpretive Plan
This plan describes goals and issues for visitor experience, interpretation, education, and resource stewardship at Canyonlands National Park. [1.3mb PDF file]
Backcountry Management Plan
Published in 1995, the intent of this plan was to develop backcountry management strategies to protect park resources, provide for high quality visitor experiences, and be flexible to deal with changing conditions. [137k PDF file]
2009 Canyonlands Compendium
A compilation of designations, closures, permit requirements and other restrictions made by the superintendent in addition to what is contained in the Code of Federal Regulations and other applicable federal statutes and regulations. [56k PDF file]
Superintendent's Directives
These memorandums provide guidance in the interpretation and implementation of park policies and regulations.
A-9: Rock climbing policy
03/14/1995 [11k PDF file]
F-2: Fee collection procedures
09/15/1998 [51k PDF file]
H-1: Cultural site information disclosure policy
04/01/2005 [38k PDF file]
H-2: Collecting of park resources
04/06/1998 [5k PDF file]
H-3: Use of the Southeast Utah Group archives
05/05/1998 [3k PDF file]
L-1: Group campsite reservations
04/02/1998 [14k PDF file]
N-1: Horse and pack animal policy
03/20/1995 [13k PDF file]
N-2: Off-highway motor vehicle regulations for backcountry use
02/03/2006 [19k PDF file]
N-4: Administrative access and fee waivers for researchers
09/19/1995 [12k PDF file]
W-1: Transit to Bobby's Hole via the park when Cathedral Butte road is closed due to inclement weather
06/20/1997 [5k PDF file]
09/14/2007 [27k PDF file]
