Vehicle Use: Denali National Park and Preserve

The Denali Citizens Council supports the goal of codifying a vehicle limit for the Denali Park Road but argues that the proposed 160-vehicle daily cap is incomplete and insufficient. They request that the rule incorporate the full adaptive management framework, adopt a more conservative 145-vehicle limit, and include commitments to transparent annual monitoring and scientific studies.

The commenter expresses general support for the amendment to limit vehicle numbers on Denali Park Road but expresses skepticism regarding the NPS's ability to monitor impacts with reduced staffing. They urge the NPS to consider that fewer than 160 vehicles per day may be necessary to protect wildlife and maintain a high-quality visitor experience.

The Citizens' Advisory Commission on Alaska Federal Areas (CACAFA) opposes the proposed rule to codify a permanent daily limit of 160 vehicles on the restricted portion of the Denali Park Road. They argue that the rule lacks updated scientific data, fails to protect statutory inholder access rights under ANILCA, and removes the flexibility of adaptive management.

The Northern Alaska Environmental Center opposes the proposed rule to change the vehicle limit on Denali Park Road from a seasonal permit cap to a daily vehicle ceiling. They argue that the new limit could allow for significantly more seasonal traffic without adequate environmental review, updated monitoring data, or a clear demonstration that wildlife and wilderness character will be protected.

Paul R. Anderson, a retired Superintendent of Denali National Park, supports codifying the 160-vehicle per 24-hour limit but emphasizes that it must be tied to the specific requirements and monitoring programs of the 2012 Vehicle Management Plan. He argues that the limit must be presented in the context of meeting desired future conditions to avoid irreparable harm to park resources.

Paul Shearer, a former bus driver and current in-holder, opposes the proposed increase of the daily vehicle cap to 160 on the restricted section of the Denali Park Road. He argues that a 160-vehicle cap would negatively impact visitor experience and wildlife protection, and instead recommends a lower cap of 120 vehicles to be phased in over several years.

Cynthia S opposes the proposed increase in allowed vehicle traffic in Denali National Park and Preserve. She argues that the current limits should remain in place to protect wildlife and that the existing shuttle system is sufficient.

A recent visitor opposes the proposed changes to vehicle use in Denali National Park, arguing that the current traffic limitations preserve the wilderness experience. The commenter expresses concern that the proposal will negatively impact the visitor experience, safety on narrow roads, and the ability to view wildlife.

An individual commenter supports closing the road to motor vehicles in Denali National Park to reduce maintenance costs and promote "rewilding." They argue for decommercializing public lands and limiting visitor numbers to prioritize nature over commercial operations.

An individual commenter opposes the proposal to increase the vehicle limit on the restricted section of the Denali Park Road. They argue that allowing more traffic will degrade the park's wilderness quality and negatively impact the experience for visitors and wildlife.