The U.S. Forest Service has declared that Hanging Lake will likely be limited to the amount of daily visitors in order to preserve its integrity.
Back in August, the U.S. Forest Service proposed a plan to better manage the amount of visitors Hanging Lake sees on a daily basis. On Tuesday, February 20, the proposal moved forward. A 45-day objection period (ends April 6) will give those who wish to formally object the plan time to share their thoughts. The proposed plan includes having a capacity of 615 visitors per day, all year-round; a fee-based reservation or permit system; and a shuttle system, which will be used to help manage the amount of guests during the peak season (May 1 to October 1).
Things like cost and permit registration have yet to be released, and when these changes will take effect has yet to be decided. But, we do know that they will be implemented sometime this year.
"The decision to implement the plan is based on years of analysis and community collaboration, and is in response to the overwhelming growth in visitation to the site," said the U.S. Forest Service.
You can read more in the U.S. Forest Service's Management Plan Draft.
What are your thoughts on the proposed plan for Hanging Lake? Are you for or against it? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's get the conversation started.