Entry-fee increase proposed for Capitol Reef National Park

Vehicle entry fees for the nine-mile scenic drive at Capitol Reef National Park could double from $5 to $10 under a plan proposed by the National Park Service. The entry fee for pedestrians and bicyclists would also increase from $3 to $5 per person under the plan.

Park officials said the increase would help pay for park improvement and projects related to improving visitor services. The last time vehicle entry fees for the drive changed was in 2000, when the park raised the fee from $4 to $5 per vehicle. Camping fees at the Fruita campground will remain stable at $10 per night.

A public comment period on the proposed increase closes Monday. If approved, the increase would take effect Jan. 1, 2008.

Comments can be mailed to the Superintendent Al Hendricks at Capitol Reef National Park, HC 70 Box 15, Torrey, UT 84775; or e-mailed to care_planning@nps.gov.