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Release Date: April 30, 2013 Since January, individuals have defaced the day-use and canyon area of Rattlesnake Canyon with graffiti. This damage resulted in a three week closure of the popular hiking and day-use area. Because a more extensive cleanup program is required to remediate vandalism in Rattlesnake Canyon, Joshua Tree National Park is extending the closure for an additional 30 days. This closure includes physical access, public entry, and use to protect the canyon from continued damage. The current closure was scheduled to end April 30 but was extended through May due to the sensitive nature of several areas. These locations require a more detailed analysis and cleanup to limit additional damage. The cleanup project began on April 8 and has largely been completed. Volunteers from across the state worked with park staff to successfully clean spray paint from numerous locations in the canyon. The closure includes the entire day use area of Rattlesnake Canyon from the day use closure gate to the top of the canyon. Following the 30-day extension, park staff will decide if additional extensions are needed before reopening the area. Joshua Tree National Park reminds visitors that we appreciate your assistance in watching for and reporting acts of vandalism or suspicious activity to the nearest park personnel. |
Last updated: February 28, 2015