Guidelines for Emulating Park Preservation Strategies from Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend, a stunning natural attraction located just ten minutes from Page, Arizona, has become a popular tourist destination, attracting over 1.3 million visitors in 2017 alone. This microcosm of what is being seen throughout the National Park Service has, however, strained resources due to the increased number of visitors.

The visitation to Horseshoe Bend has drastically increased since 2015, with the number of EMS incidents rising from no incidents in 2012 and 2013, to 17 in 2015, and further to 56 in 2016. In response, the Park Service and the city of Page have taken steps to ensure the safety and sustainability of the site.

Last fall, construction began on a new trail at the rim of Horseshoe Bend. This trail will go around the hill and be far less steep, replacing the current 20-30 feet wide trail that is "kind of a mar on the landscape." The new trail will also feature an American Disabilities Act-compliant safety railing and two shaded structures.

In addition, the Park Service has increased its presence and set up flashing marquees to remind visitors to carry water and wear appropriate footwear. These changes seem to have made a difference, as the number of medical emergencies went down by half in 2017, to 28.

However, despite these measures, some visitors still come unprepared. A recent example is a woman who was seen setting out in a pair of open-toed high heels. Horseshoe Bend has become a hotspot for less experienced, less prepared visitors.

The Park Service and the city of Page are aware of the criticisms regarding the modernization of Horseshoe Bend Overlook. Shott, a local resident, argues that the wilderness experience there disappeared a long time ago. Horseshoe Bend is now a must-see for tour buses and families tracing a Southwest road trip route. It is often used in marketing materials, including Utah's Mighty Five campaign.

Adventurous visitors could easily visit a dozen other spots at least as spectacular as Horseshoe Bend if they seek a wilderness experience. Yet, for those who appreciate the convenience and awe-inspiring views that Horseshoe Bend offers, the ongoing improvements aim to ensure a safer and more enjoyable visit. The expected completion date for the construction of the new hiking trail at the Horseshoe Bend cliff is July 2018.