Pastor Ken
In Zion National Park, a hiking trail, Angels Landing, is famous for its beauty and danger. My wife and I, both of us not young anymore, reached a flat area beneath Angels Landing known as Scout Lookout after a challenging 1,000-foot climb. We decided not to attempt the additional 500-foot climb, as the final half-mile stretch is riddled with dangerous spots. Angels Landing is equipped with iron chain handrails for hikers to grab onto, but these rails aren’t continuous, which may explain the unfortunate deaths of 13 individuals since the year 2000 who fell to their demises. Due to safety concerns, special permits are now required for hikers wishing to tackle this perilous section, and visitor numbers are limited to mitigate the risks.
Some people asked the Park Service why they didn’t provide handrails throughout the Angels Landing trail. The unofficial answer is that this goes against the park’s principle of maintaining its natural look and reducing man-made facilities.
Preserving the natural appearance of many national parks in America is a deliberate choice. While there may be railings and observation decks, these structures are constructed using local materials. The focus is on enhancing accessibility, such as improving roads and ensuring accommodations for individuals with disabilities. In cases of high tourist volume leading to traffic issues, restrictions on private vehicles may be implemented and shuttle bus services offered as an alternative.
During my working days, my vacation time was limited. Even visiting national parks had to be quick. I would just drive through or stop briefly at lookouts to snap a few pictures before moving on. Now I realize that to truly appreciate the stunning landscapes, hiking is necessary. Spending a night in the park allows for the full enjoyment of its tranquility in the evening and early morning. It’s important to slow down and savor the beauty of nature at a leisurely pace.
While at the Zion Park’s Visitor Center, a ranger asked if I had been there before. I replied affirmatively, mentioning that my last visit was 20 years prior. The ranger commented, “This place has remained largely unchanged,” underscoring the Park Service’s dedication to preserving its natural state. I’ve also explored stalactite caves under the Park Service’s management, where ranger-led tours are limited to a few groups each day. The cave route is segmented into sections, with lighting selectively turned on as the groups enter a section and switched off as they progress to the next. Opting for a ranger-guided tour appears to be the most effective approach in safeguarding the environment.
In contrast, in certain regions of countries other than the US, the tourist-accessible stalactite caves not only boast vibrant lighting but also provide space for souvenir vendors to operate inside. In addition, some popular locations offer photography services, as capturing memorable moments is a significant activity for many visitors eager to share their experiences with friends and family. I have explored mountainous areas where tourism drives the economy. Rapid infrastructure development includes the installation of cable cars, well-designed stairs, and elevators. The construction of shopping districts, restaurants, theme parks with bridges and pavilions, as well as swimming pools in cleared forest areas, is evident. Additionally, nightlife options like bars and casinos are available for visitors. There are certainly numerous ways to find entertainment, with some individuals favoring destinations such as Las Vegas or Disney World. Personally, I find solace in national parks, particularly appreciating their commitment to preserving nature. Surrounded by these natural environments, I experience a sense of liberation, enabling me to choose my own pace and contemplate in peace. In contrast, artificial structures filled with machinery, lights, and noise can often make me feel pressured to conform to the masses. In nature, I relish the autonomy to determine my own definition of beauty and contentment.
