|
Contact: Scott Sticha, (435) 688-3377 Contact: Ray Klein, (435) 688-3280
Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument Superintendent Rosie Pepito is announcing a seasonal road closure for Kelly Point (NPS Road # 1203) beginning this winter. The seasonal closure will begin each year on the third Monday in November and stay closed through the last Friday in March. The road will close this year on Monday November 17, 2014 through Friday March 27, 2015. The seasonal closure during the winter months is being implemented in accordance with the General Management Plan Record of Decision approved in 2008. The seasonal closure will protect the environment from damage caused when vehicles driving on the muddy road create deep ruts. Vehicles often drive off the road to divert the mud, widening the road, changing natural drainage patterns in fragile meadows, and causing damage to vegetation and other natural and cultural resources. Vegetation is further damaged when stuck vehicles use trees as anchor points for winching. "Kelly Point is very isolated and difficult to access and a seasonal closure is the best way to protect the road, park resources and to keep the public safe," said Pepito. "Weather conditions in the high country can change very rapidly and we don't want people getting stranded way out there as has happened in the past." When traveling anywhere within the Monument, please be prepared for remote and primitive road conditions. Do not rely on cell phones for emergencies or GPS devices for accurate navigation information. Always stay within the limits of your ability and plan for the unexpected. Never drive beyond the limits of the vehicle and in case of mechanical breakdown, stay with the vehicle. Always have one, preferably two, full size spare tires, a jack, and a toolkit. Be prepared to spend the night. Carry water (at least one gallon of water per person per day), food, and warm clothing. Weather conditions can change rapidly. Washes and narrow canyons are subject to flash floods; thunderstorms can produce dangerous lightning; sleet and snow can occur year-round in the mountains. Contact Scott Sticha (435) 688-3377 or Ray Klein (435) 688-3280 for more information. |
Last updated: February 28, 2015