I have frequented this park for many years. I am fine with a reasonable parking fee provided the funds stay in the park and are used to make VISIBLE improvements to the facilities and services.
It sounds good, but it’s not fair. Pays per vehicle, with one person and another vehicle may have two to ten people. The best way is to charge an entree fee for each person.
"I am fine with a reasonable parking fee provided the funds stay in the park and are used to make VISIBLE improvements to the facilities and services." The backpacking fees were supposed to have done just that, yet the only visible change is that you now have to go online and pay a fee and you're out of luck making any changes if you're out of cell phone service.
@@ellenclayton5955 "Not all improvements are visible." Most should be. The park has received close to $100M in special Congressional funding beyond its normal allocation in the last decade. Friends of the Smokies contributes about $2M per year towards the park through donations as well.
The annual pass, especially the senior one, also discounts overnight parking at most national forests and Corp of engineers facilities. GSMNP should apply equivalent discounts for those pass holders.
Yes, the Senior Pass provides a discount "at most" facilities, but not all. I have no objection, and see no justifiable objection, to the non application of the discount in this instance.
I, for one, will be more than happy to pay $40 for annual pass. (That's one trip to the Pancake Pantry) But, I am interested in how they will actually enforce the "no parking" in non-designated areas AND controll the added hostility of those who can't find parking in designated areas.
I agree, parking charges should be exempt with people who have national park passes. For example, They do the same crap for Mount Rushmore. Mount Rushmore is free, but you still have to pay for parking, and the park passes dose not cover the cost. A car cost just as much as a van or a bus and that means more people can get in for the one parking fee.
@@safromnc8616 I paid my share my whole life and deserve and am owed some respect for doing it. And, no. I don't have a $100k RV. Seniors deserve a brake.
There are some places I visited in the 70's that were beautifully unspoiled and not crowded. Tent camped a lovely spacious parks. Don't think I can bear to return the way it is now. Will keep my memories.
They keep calling it a PARKING fee,When you pay to park you expect a PARKING SPACE. There no where near enough parking spaces for everyone. So when you can"t find a space Do you get a REFUND? If not that turns into an ENTRANCE FEE
Thank you for such a informative explanation . Great job. I chose to live in Sevier County Tennessee. I a M thankful GSMNP is here for it’s beauty. I have witnessed the crowds, traffic and grumbled in regards to the challenges it brings. I disagree with parking fees in the park. I commend the officials for there efforts for fund raising activities. They do a wonderful job. Some may feel I have a short sighted view in regards to our park. The park, will always have a budget, just like myself it can always spend more money. All those Visiting people have money, I see the parks point more funding. Why should GSMNP not honer the national discount system? Other parks do. Why should they be special? The underlying motivation limit access, the park is being loved to death. Fees could limit visits. It also brings more rules , regulations and waste. So much for the friendly Smoky Mountains. The peoples park. I believe in paying my own way , user fees are a good thing. We have the best highway system, well maintained and safe due to fuel tax. Im sure park officials can do the same. Never would they fence people out or let a just special few through. Could be for some managers “the park is a beautiful place if it wasn’t for the people”. Never happen right? Government would never move you out. Just ask native Americans, the thousand home owners from the 1930 who once lived where the park is today. “Trust is we have your best interest at heart.” Keep parking free. No lottery tickets parking for me. More fees less service more hassle , government management . I understand most don’t share my views. Guessing I’ll take my lumps. Well for what I am about to receive, my I be truly thankful. BLESSINGS
I've regularly visited and used the park since 1963 (I'm a Senior Pass holder) and have witnessed, from the vantage points of driving and hiking, the impacts of uncontrollable overuse. For GSMNP to be able to fulfill its congressionally managed purpose of preserving the natural and historical integrity of the park it needs money. This is an excellent proposal. People willingly spend ten times that amount, per person per day, for entertainment in Gatlinburg or in the casino in Cherokee. A parking pass is the best deal to be found anywhere within one hundred miles of the park. It's about preserving the park. I have no objection, none at all, in participating with GSMNP in supporting that goal with my money.
"People willingly spend ten times that amount, per person per day, for entertainment in Gatlinburg or in the casino in Cherokee. " And they'll be less likely to actually visit the park. Then again, if the park is going to collect fees for use, they shouldn't be coming to Congress for further funding. Congress can just tell them to increase their fees. That might help reduce the number of tourists that support the area.
@@heehaw8401 They just repaved Cades Cove less than two months ago. The buildings aren't supposed to be maintained except by the churches that still have access to them.
And you know the cove was closed again for several days recently because the pavement had problems. Was there the first weekend in April. It’s worn out.
Charging for Parking? There is very little parking any where and what you described was basically there will be no parking. The park needs an upgrade in every way including park manay..just charge to enter, give people there discounts.
I was surprised this year by the number of parks that have found a way around the acceptance of the annual pass. You pay for the pass and then again to enjoy the park.
@@theparkjunkieMammoth Cave comes to mind. Any park that was managed by a vendor. Several of the National Monuments that we visited such as cave dwellings in New Mexico.
@@ronwooten6913 Yeah, you are correct…. Many of the “tour” parks do impose additional fees to access the areas that require a guide. Wind Cave, Mesa Verde & Mammoth do this. I understand that if I need a guide, I may incur an additional fee to visit the desired site. I do however share your concern that there is likely a move afoot to squeeze more money out of park visitors by any means possible, pass or not.
I think parking fees are a reasonable solution to the increased demand. Thanks for the insight Jason. $40 per year & having day and week options in lieu of the annual pass make it flexible for most visitors. I would like to see a discounted fee for Senior and ATB passes though.
"Thanks for the insight Jason. $40 per year & having day and week options in lieu of the annual pass make it flexible for most visitors. " It's a good way to reduce today's visitors which also reduces tomorrow's park advocates.
@@wisenber I see your point - BUT - I will have to disagree. A lot of folks are spending hundreds, if not thousands, at nearby Gatlinburg etc. If someone can't see the value in putting $40 yearly (or $5 for a day - was it?) toward such a great resource, then they probably aren't going to truly appreciate it anyway.
@@HMHSrams " BUT - I will have to disagree." Some will. disagree. Most of the people staying in Gatlinburg are the one driving through the park as opposed to actually hiking on a trail and parking. " If someone can't see the value in putting $40 yearly (or $5 for a day - was it?) toward such a great resource" In this case, "the resource" would be mostly paying for new parking enforcement officers to enforce all of the parking areas. However, the intent of the fees is to reduce visitation which reduces future park advocates. Then again, the "14M visitors" is probably closer to 4M unique visitors since locals transiting the park to and from work are counted as 15-20 visitors a week when they drive over the counters.
I never understood Senior discounts, people who have been working the longest and have the most assets and wealth should get a discount? I guess it’s to keep them staying active for cheap?
Lifetime Resident of Sevierville (County Seat of the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area). It's a bad idea. Whenever government proposes introducing a fee it usually means they will cut from one end of a blanket and sew it to the other and claim they are making the blanket longer. I seriously doubt the funds collected will do anything but fund paying employees to sit in little booths and additional parking police to enforce the "rules". If they still want to charge for admittance here is an idea: Charge $50 per car to drive through Cades Cove. I would love to hear the tourist howl at that idea. But likely, it will get squandered like everything else the government touches. Edit: I added a response to my initial thought. As a local, I love my mountains, just not the Federal Government that mismanages it.
I've had a few days to think about this video from my initial response. The park not being modernized, maintained, or as Jason was eluding to “overrun” with visitors not because of a lack of funding but a lack of desire. The GSMNP was not set aside out of a altruistic desire to preserve natural spaces, but was set aside to create a strategic reserve for lumber, and because people could enjoy the forest was a presented as a “benefit” to the masses. But like so many other things, we live on the backs of those that came before us, there is little desire to invest our devalued currency into things that won't benefit those in power (no matter the letter after their name). As a result we send our treasure to foreign shores to achieve some goal or another and our infrastructure at home is just kicked down the road for the next generation to figure out what to do with it.
I agree. I am local too. Those behind this have little knowledge of the net impact it will create. Second, the increase to the park was because TN was one of the only states with no vivid mandates. They have not done any research to the impact or why the increase visits in the last 2 years. Just pure backwards logic. But I am sure these same people will be upset when their taxes increase because of lost revenue from tourism.
Though he may not be camping currently as age has crept in my Uncle was an avid RVer who lived in the Smokies. He would be spitting nails right now lol
@@safromnc8616 use whatever label you wish. Tents, trailers, Motorhomes, whatever you want to call it we all do it differently and have fun in our own ways 😊
I absolutely support this, and would be excited to see the improvements made as a result of the increased funding. First time watching this channel and I've got to say that this was probably one of the most informative videos I've ever watched on TH-cam. I appreciate the non-biased reporting!
Charging for parking is a slippery slope. Next thing you know, if it becomes lucrative, every national park will have ‘must pay parking’ and they will all claim its due to not having enough funding. So at that point it’ll be a pass to enter, and a pass to park. I don’t like the look of this at all. Also everyone who is ‘happy’ to pay more, there is nothing stopping you from giving the government more of your hard earned money. But not everyone has that luxury of throwing money everywhere.
"I totally agree with parking fees at GSMNP." They did the same think with backcountry backpacking. 75 years with no charge, then they added fees despite declining numbers of backpackers. They're also going to double the backpacking fees with the addition of parking.
@@user-tb7rn1il3q Fascinating. So if you own something you don't pay anything to maintain it? I suspect if that's your philosophy then I hope all of your property including your vehicles work without any maintenance. Because if you're paying for maintenance then that's no different than paying a fee for our parks. The National Park system is sorely underfunded. So, there are only two ways to resolve this problem. Raise taxes for everyone or charge those that actually use the parks. Yes we own it, but ownership comes with responsibility to maintain what we own. It's pretty straightforward.
@@rollingeezer They are overfunded. They overbuild and overstaff everything. The roads and parking lots should be gravel/dirt. They don’t need any buildings, just a few portable toilets and a trailer for the staff. I want a natural experience.
@@user-tb7rn1il3q The beauty of this proposal is folks like you that want a natural experience can have it. Walk-there are no fees and you have roughly 71 miles of the Appalachian Trail that requires no fees in this National Park. Just leave no trace of your presence so others can enjoy nature's beauty. A car is unnatural so your goals are accomplished. For the rest of us who want to experience nature with 21st century accomodations, we're happy to pay such a nominal fee.
The real potential disaster here seems to be invisible for most. Anyone who has been to this park may recall the amount of roadside parking necessary for accessing popular trails & points of interest. If this is no longer available, the limited parking spots will fill quickly, & there will likely be far more motorists seeking parking spaces (& paying for parking spaces) than there are parking spaces. I predict chaos & very unhappy visitors… but we’ll see.
Thanks for the update! I don't having issue the new feeds. I visit Bodie Island Lighthouse last weekend and I had to pay to walk to the top of the lighthouse. The amount they are charging is not unreasonable. BUT, I should offer a discount to pass holders and seniors. Again the feeds are not unreasonable.
Having grown up in East Tennessee and these mountains it hurts me to pay to park in my own mountains. Charge the tourist from out of state. Tennessee and North Carolina should exempt from paying to park in our own park. We will no longer be able to go to popular trails due to removing road side parking. Please listen to the residents.
@@katherinebotma560 The Tennessee and North Carolina residents are the ones who had their land taken from them to create the park in the first place. Thansands of families were forced to leave their home and land for little of nothing.
@@katherinebotma560 so let me educate you just a little bit my ancestors gave up their land and what you know now is Cades cove that is now the park that you enjoy. Do you know how much that property would be worth in today's numbers.
I have been to this park once. And I’m ok with having a fee to park. I just wonder where the people who are parking along the road where they will park when told can’t park there where they would go. Thank you Jason for this video and the information. Hope Abby had a great Mother’s Day!
As long as the money stays within the GSMNP I don't have too many issues with the parking fee. However, being handicapped, it would be nice if our senior and handicap passes would afford us some discounts. Especially with folks on fixed incomes.
Just Another Tax. Congress a month or so ago gave themselves a 21% raise. While they cut programs that were designed to be free for all people other than the fact that your tax dollars are suppose to pay for the National Parks. But hey just keep letting the Government into your pockets and they will keep getting more of your money.
We, the decendants of The Great Smoky Mountains Park should not be charged to park,cause, hike or anything to do with the park. Most families were pushed out of the park with nothing, all while te ppl that were taking the park were building there summer homes in Elkmont and giving themselves a lifetime lease. They named on of their roads "Millionaires Row". Well these families didn't even leave when time was up. The sued to stay and they stayed wee into the late 2000's, crying that this is my families home, how could they make us leave. Makes me sick. Let the government put money into the park like the should, they only have 7 Ranger in the park. It deserves money from the government now...
"We, the decendants of The Great Smoky Mountains Park should not be charged to park" We were promised just that, yet the park has used every backdoor method possible to get around that promise.
I am glad to see that y'all are doing something to bring in more income. Just seeing the amount of road improvements that are required almost annually is crazy!
What funded the maintenance and repairs up until now? Parking fees are a big inconvenience. They'll spend more money that should be spent on maintenance and repairs on parking enforcement. Now every National park will institute this on top of the fees that they are charging for entrance now. After a year of managing the enforcement of the parking fees all of the rates will go up again.
As a Sevier county local and a avid smokies backpacker I'm thrilled at the changes and can't wait for the day admissions are required. The Park is my happy place and I'm ok with paying a little extra to keep it the beautiful wilderness I love.
Individually these little costs aNd and price hikes seem reasonable. Collectively the are pricing lower income people out of parks intended for them. By pricing out I mean reducing visits due to costs. Public parks and recreation areas are what low income families have for vacation and entertainment vs cruises, theme parks and even movie nights.
Jason Glad you are feeling better! We were at Great Smoky NP last August and really enjoyed it. Parking is a BIG problem there! So charging for parking i'm okay with (Do people camping in the park need a parking pass or included in there fee?). The part i don't like is they think they are going to eliminate parking along the road is just crazy!! Some areas only have parking for a few cars! I don't see that happening or think that is a HUGE mistake!! Built alot more parking and/or widen the road for safer parking along the road... thank you for the update!
I support an entrance/parking fee, but should not charge for passholders. I oppose efforts to get around passes like this and not honoring camping discount at concessioner managed campgounds
We spent good money on the senior lifetime pass and they just keep on telling us that is no good at more and more federal places. We should be able to get a refund.
I used to volunteer in a national park unit that had one million visitors annually, and the cuts to park operating funds had our staffing level so bare-boned that it hurt the visitor experience. Our maintenance staff couldn't keep up with the needs, and our interpretive staff relied heavily on volunteers to run the visitor center and other interpretive programs. In fact, I would be the one opening the visitor center at 9 a.m. and on most days, I wouldn't see a ranger until lunchtime. Fees like these, as unpopular as they are, support the operations and preservation of our national treasures. If you live near a park, consider volunteering.
Eliminating the roadside parking is going to cause a nightmare, there just aren’t enough parking lots to handle the traffic. Which is gonna piss a lot of people off when they pay for parking only to find no spaces. I use the backcountry campsites often and I’m perfectly ok with paying more for those and for increasing the other campsite and access fees. But this parking plan is going to be a massive problem.
People who regularly hike and backpack there understand what a pain this is going to be, especially if you're in hiking groups. Those hiking groups also do a lot of volunteer work there.
I don't like the fee, and I don't like being told I can't park along side the roads where I have always parked. As a senior, I am really ticked off that I am having to pay twice!
Never been there but just by looking at this video, it seems like if they don't have parking along the road, then they won't have nearly enough parking spots. So now you create a bigger problem unless you first go in and build more parking lots.
I believe the parking rate is reasonable but would encourage a senior discount. I particularly appreciate not allowing unofficial roadside parking along the road by trailheads.
I support the parking and increased camping fees 100%. I would like to see the primitive camping fee remain the same and the electric hookups be $40.00.
Agreed, I'm a hookups camper but have no problem subsidizing those without the means, if you've got the means to buy an RV and pay for gas to move it around and need to have hookups then you can probably afford the fees to do so but anyone with a tent and the ability to get to the park should be able to enjoy them regardless of their means. I did many years of car camping and while not poor I was certainly not well off, now that I'm fortunate enough to have the means I feel a need to help the next generation of going families behind me and anyone else who just wants to get out and enjoy these beautiful places that are held in public trust.
The point of increasing the primitive camping fee is to employ more staff and groups to keep up with the overall clean up and maintenance of those primative sites and shelters. The amount of trash and human waste that's left by weekend backpackers is atrocious. Not to mention it will help with the health and safety of AT through hikers, by preventing weekend warriors (who are the main source of the trash and waste) from taking over all the needed sites and shelters from the through hikers.
I think $75.00 would be more fair, and maybe a $20.00 processing fee. Primitive camping should be at least 3 times as much and a overnight parking permit for another $20.00 a night. If you have the money to come here a few extra dollars shouldn't matter.
We haven't been to the Great Smokies in 25 years and that was for our 25th anniversary. We were just talking about going this year again for out 50th. Good timing on this video.
We are happy to contribute ! Anything to keep the Parks running! We love the Smokies, and all of the Parks! What a privilege to have access to such beautiful places!
Big woop! Thats still a great deal for parking and camping fees....plus it supports the park. If we can pay for fuel to get there, the fees shouldn't be a problem.
14 million visitors a year with an average $5 parking fee comes out to 70 million. Then double the back country camping? Wow do you think the park can survive on an additional 80 million a year?
A parking pass without a guaranteed parking spot is asking for trouble. And stopping roadside parking at trail heads will severely limit the number of hikers/walkers using the trails. After a few times of buying mandatory passes with no place to park, folks will take their money and business elsewhere. I, for one, won’t spend money on a parking pass and then spend my day circling like a vulture waiting on a space to open up.
I live in East Tennessee and have always felt so blessed to have such a beautiful place in my back yard. My family has camped in the mountains regularly as an affordable get away. Regulations are probably necessary but it makes me sad that campsites are going to be so expensive…it will likely make camping out of range of families like mine.
I have a National Park pass and I was charged for parking at Ocala National Forest. I was infuriated as I thought my Federal government violated my contract when I purchased my lifetime NP pass which promised free access to national parks for life. Where are our elected officials when we need them?
Thanks for the good explanation of why they haven't charged fees and how they plan to implement fees. I grew up hiking in the Smokies in the 1970s and 80s. Stopped going 20+ years ago, just too crowded. I'm glad they're going to charge and hope it will go towards maintenance and improvements and management to the use (and overuse). Seems like it might increase congestion though, and make the Park more of a "drive through" destination. Many trailheads lack room for a parking area, so wonder how they'll be accessed. One downside is that it might reduce access to the Park for low income people. When I was growing up, we definitely could not have paid to enter. There's never a perfect answer. Thanks again!
"Many trailheads lack room for a parking area, so wonder how they'll be accessed." The plan basically provides a parking "hunting license". Paying for a pass doesn't guarantee you'll be able to use it. Parking outside of the lots will mean tickets. That being said, 80% of the park isn't crowded. "One downside is that it might reduce access to the Park for low income people. " I went backpacking in the park during college because it was free and i couldn't afford anything else. If there had been fees, I never would have started going there.
I am a a disabled veteran with a lifetime access pass and have no issue with paying fees-as long as they are used for the specific parts that are charging them. Fees going to a general fund are fees going down a black hole
I think parking fees are a smart way to generate revenue for upkeep! I would hope they would increase the number of parking spots since on shoulder parking would be prohibited and would cause traffic jams as people look for a place to park.
I would gladly pay the fee to assist with raising funds for the upkeep of this wonderful amazing treasure! I have often wondered if anyone ever used the donation boxes scattered around the park. Hopefully this money would ensure that this park will be around for future generations!
After my last visit to Gatlinburg and the park, it’ll be a cold day in h**l before I go back. One of the worst getaways I’ve had in my life. Ridiculous amount of people. Horrible.
Try the north carolina side (not cherokee), like Sylva, dillsboro, bryson city. Delightful small town atmospheres and very little crowding. Park facilities can actually be used also without crowds
Also, GREAT campground at Whittier, NC, about 5 miles up the mountain behind Whittier and away from the 4 lane. Every camp site is next to a big creek and most in the shade, all sites 50 feet wide or more. Power and water and dump station. Can't even get an AM radio station there, which is great!! Timberlake camp ground. Tell 'em I sent you.
@@jimcollins8097 Thanks Jim, wish we had thought of this before we wasted 4 days of our life in Gatlinburg! It sure was different than when we got married there 25 years ago.
@@witteney3334 My parents took us there four years in a row in the late 60's, went back in 2015. The Gatlinburg with crafters was replaced with tourist trap crap.
I don’t have an issue with paying for parking, but eliminating roadside parking at the popular trailheads is going to create more problems. The designated parking areas are very limited. What about people parking to go to Mt Leconte Lodge? I drive all the way from Cades Cove to Alum Cave to hike and no parking.
Great update. The only change I would suggest is these changes are not entrance fees as you stated once in your video. They are parking and specific use fees. You will still be able to enter without the parking fee permit as you stated.
I’ve been visiting, vacationing, hiking, camping, biking and doing all the wonderful activities this park offers. I think it’s a wonderful idea to add these parking fees to help fund and continue to patrol and care for this park. It’s really a small price for all this park and this wonderful are offers. Other parks already charge day use and back country camping fees. There are passes for veterans and senior citizens in other State and National Forrest so hopefully these passes will be made available when this cost is added. It’s amazing how good of a job the park does now with lack of help and money so I know they will be great stewards of needed revue. Keep up the great work!
"I’ve been visiting, vacationing, hiking, camping, biking and doing all the wonderful activities this park offers." The you understand that buying a parking pass doesn't actually mean a parking space will be available. Backpacking was free for the first 75 years, then it was $4 per person per night, now $8 per person per night within a decade. If it's $40 today, why would it be a stretch to be $120 a few years down the road? Getting the fee approved is the primary hurdle, after that, increases are easy.
Why can't they have pay stations at each parking lot and you only pay if you find a parking spot and or get businesses in the Gatlinburg area to do fundraising for the smokies or hey do you want to round up your purchase and donate to the smokies
Other than providing a discount for pass holders, this makes perfect sense to me. Great Smoky, along with most other NP units, is seriously underfunded. Some of the difference between the the existing funding and those needed needs to be paid by the people who are actually using the park. All of us, through our taxes, whether or not we use this particular park, need to pay part to preserve these National treasures.
I think it's a good idea for the parking passes. The rate seemed fine to me to help out with all the areas. But, I wish they would add a little discount for us seniors that have a senior pass.
Take one percent of the “Billions of Dollars” we send overseas and give it to the National Park Service to maintain and improve our National Parks. Taking one percent of those funds would give the National Park Service more money than they know what too do with.
Hopefully the parking charges will cause enough of a uproar from the public to force the state’s involved to change their laws to allow entry charges instead. Be interesting to watch how this boils out.
I'm against any fee to park, but I'm sure it will pass. I hope they spend some of the money for the Park Rangers to take some public relations classes. Most people's only interaction with Park Rangers is at a bear jam and the Rangers are screaming "MOVE IT ALONG! NOTHING TO SEE HERE!! NO TIME FOR PICTURES!! MOVE IT!!! Real nice people.
After going last Fall and staying in the quiet side of the Smokies I was sad to see that people had gone to the bathroom all over in Cades Cove and left their toilet paper as well. I lived in Pigeon Forge and since moving in 2015 try to go back to hike every year. I don’t mind paying to park if there is a space available if you are going to hike or explore make sure to be at the trailhead before 7 in the morning. I for one will visit the other side of the smokies from now on where when paying it isn’t like going to an amusement park.
Very fair, especially if part of the parking fee goes to more parking, which is more needed than ever with roadside parking taken away. (Nice explanation!)
"Wow! These fees are a bargain considering what you get " Unless you're a local and actually use it often. Adding fees and reducing parking is no bargain.
Never compliment a merchant on the quality of their merchandise or the fairness of their prices... For the latter will increase as the former declines.
So u have to pay to park your car at trailhead parking lots but u can't park on the side of the road so u will never be able to park and hike as parking along side the road is the only place to park in most cases. This is rediculas. Then increasing fees at the campgrounds too. This is just a money grab and think of all the new parking enforcement people that will be handing out 100 dollar tickets because u had to park along side the road even after paying to park.
Tourism will suffer because there are not enough designated parking spaces so no one is going to pay for a parking pass that won't guarantee a place to park.
I agree with parking passes. A lot of work needs to be done inside the park and I'm excited that they will have money now to improve the necessary areas. I live in Gatlinburg most of the year and I will be getting the annual pass. I'm more upset over the price of food and gas across America. Thanks for the info
" A lot of work needs to be done inside the park " The park received stimulus money in 2009 and again in 2020, yet the projects never seem to get done even when funded.
This reminds me of what I heard (unconfirmed) about Mount Rushmore. The Artist that carved Mount Rushmore made sure that they could never impose an entrance fee to visitors so they built a payed parking structure and eliminated all road parking around it. It works well.
Went 8 years ago late May, got up early and got a spot right at my trail head. Headed back this summer w the whole fam and camper. Will be interesting to see differences in park attendance. Going in mid June this year sure it’ll be packed.
As I recall pennies were collected by school children to help buy land for the park. And money that was raised to create the park was matched by John D. Rockefeller Jr. who was instrumental in the creation of other national parks. But, I thought there was a mandate in the creation of the Smokies that there could never be an entrance fee. As someone who has enjoyed visiting and photographing the Smokies my whole adult life, I would be glad to pay a reasonable yearly fee. But, like many national parks, it has too many visitors and I don't know how the park can deal with that.
We grew up 20 miles from the park and have seen major changes over our 60+ years. Something needed to be done as the damage has grown exponentially to the land and buildings. The parking pass is just another way of saying an admission fee and I’m fine with it. My only but… is no discount for the pass holders. I don’t us my America the Beautiful pass very much but disappointing that I want get a break.
Parking fees should be used for bettering the parking. Who wants to pay to park and then not have a place to park. Will have less parking than there is now... What is the benefit again? Tell the truth, it is not for parking, only calling it that to legally collect a fee.
If the park is going to charge for parking, the fee needs to be high enough to accomplish the proposed goals. On the flip side of the coin, it would be good to start a precedent of discounts for active duty military and veteran visitors. If you take away roadside parking, the paved parking areas will probably need to be enlarged. You can't realistically or ethically expect to charge visitors for parking and then not have parking spaces.
This is horrible. The volunteers that keep it clean won't anymore. Secod, this will hurt TN since they will lose revenue with visitors. I know who is behind this and they reasons they give are not logical. Second, they have no problem with the surrounding land to be built up by amusement parks and hotels.
I used to live near there and went very often into the park but I haven’t been in a few years. Since parking in the park is so sparse I don’t know how they are going to pull this off. Plus I assume the overlooks that have only a couple spots meant for people to stop only for a few minutes to see the scenery won’t require you have a parking pass.
Great update! I totally disagree with bypassing the annual passes. They just need to charge an entry fee. And let the annual passes cover the entry fee just like they do have other national parks.
@@tonydeardorff Sure they can, they change things and do what they want all the time! My main point is they should not charge you if you have a National Park Annual Pass!
I disagree with charging disability, seniors and locals, charge out of state visitors, because locals do not damage the park, and seniors respect the park also, and disabled deserve free public access
@@cynthianussbaumer8758 I don't think smoky mountains Sevier county locals should have to pay to get in, because it was set up as a legally free park from the donation of the land, but regardless my hubby is a Veteran, we are seniors and I am technically listed as protected disabled, although not through legal process
With all due respect, how will this affect veterans with a disabled pass? I have no problem paying my fair share! I just wanted to find out ahead of time! Thank you and God bless America 🇺🇸 and the smoky mountains 🏔 forever! Respectfully submitted, Ron
Thanks for the clear explanation of why an entrance fee isn't charged. I always wondered why at this park. I'm OK with the parking fee as it seems to be a reasonable solution to obtaining revenue, especially with the increased demand.
I’m in favor of a parking charge. Doesn’t seem outrageous and the money would go to good use. Most, if not all parks charge an entrance fee. The Great Smokies are beautiful and the boost in income would help keep them that way. Anyone enjoying the land should share in its preservation.
@@TrimansWife Much of our taxes go to good causes. Only the mis-spends are sensationalized and talked about. Sounds like you haven’t worked for the government to see all the good we do. Yes there are some abuses (I’m not an ostrich) but there is plenty of good. I say show us what they can do and not shoot it down before it has a chance.
@@carolconnell9521 I have worked for government agencies and have witnessed some good but so much waste. Sounds like you trust the government no matter what.
I wouldn't mind a parking fee but lets face it, the Federal Govt has mismanaged the parks system for 50 years and has squandered the funds. As Americans we are constantly being taxed ,feed and charged for services that are suppose to be free. Our tax dollars are already allocated for NAtional parks but the bureaucracy has robbed the parks of the designated funds. Cuts to all the services over the years is what has plagued the National Parks. Our crooked politicians only see taxes and fees a sway to generate funds for their pet projects that have nothing to do with the Parks. People need to vote these baffoons out of office but we al lknow that won't happen
I have frequented this park for many years. I am fine with a reasonable parking fee provided the funds stay in the park and are used to make VISIBLE improvements to the facilities and services.
It sounds good, but it’s not fair. Pays per vehicle, with one person and another vehicle may have two to ten people. The best way is to charge an entree fee for each person.
"I am fine with a reasonable parking fee provided the funds stay in the park and are used to make VISIBLE improvements to the facilities and services."
The backpacking fees were supposed to have done just that, yet the only visible change is that you now have to go online and pay a fee and you're out of luck making any changes if you're out of cell phone service.
Not all improvements are visible.
@@ellenclayton5955 "Not all improvements are visible."
Most should be. The park has received close to $100M in special Congressional funding beyond its normal allocation in the last decade. Friends of the Smokies contributes about $2M per year towards the park through donations as well.
My guess is the fees will end up in someone's pocket without any improvements after the first or second year. 🤷
The annual pass, especially the senior one, also discounts overnight parking at most national forests and Corp of engineers facilities. GSMNP should apply equivalent discounts for those pass holders.
Yes, the Senior Pass provides a discount "at most" facilities, but not all. I have no objection, and see no justifiable objection, to the non application of the discount in this instance.
I, for one, will be more than happy to pay $40 for annual pass. (That's one trip to the Pancake Pantry) But, I am interested in how they will actually enforce the "no parking" in non-designated areas AND controll the added hostility of those who can't find parking in designated areas.
Especially for people who paid to park and can't find a space.
Exactly.
I would be concerned that I buy the parking pass and then I wouldn’t be able to find a parking spot. Especially if you eliminate the roadside parking.
This will happen.
You won’t have a spot. It’s going to be the same BS just paid BS.
With no roadside parking… for “safety”…
I feel that the AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL LIFETIME SENIOR Card should be honored as an exemption to the fee.
I'm a Senior on a fixed income. I have no objection to paying $7.00 for a day pass.
I agree, parking charges should be exempt with people who have national park passes. For example, They do the same crap for Mount Rushmore. Mount Rushmore is free, but you still have to pay for parking, and the park passes dose not cover the cost. A car cost just as much as a van or a bus and that means more people can get in for the one parking fee.
Agreed. This is a disgrace.
Uh-huh, those are the same people sporting the $100k RVs/houses on wheels that contribute greatly to the traffic issues.... Pay your share Gramps.
@@safromnc8616 I paid my share my whole life and deserve and am owed some respect for doing it. And, no. I don't have a $100k RV. Seniors deserve a brake.
There are some places I visited in the 70's that were beautifully unspoiled and not crowded. Tent camped a lovely spacious parks. Don't think I can bear to return the way it is now. Will keep my memories.
They keep calling it a PARKING fee,When you pay to park you expect a PARKING SPACE. There no where near enough parking spaces for everyone. So when you can"t find a space Do you get a REFUND? If not that turns into an ENTRANCE FEE
good point
Just a sign of things to come.
Thank you for such a informative explanation . Great job.
I chose to live in Sevier County Tennessee. I a
M thankful GSMNP is here for it’s beauty. I have witnessed the crowds, traffic and grumbled in regards to the challenges it brings.
I disagree with parking fees in the park. I commend the officials for there efforts for fund raising activities. They do a wonderful job.
Some may feel I have a short sighted view in regards to our park. The park, will always have a budget, just like myself it can always spend more money. All those Visiting people have money, I see the parks point more funding.
Why should GSMNP not honer the national discount system? Other parks do. Why should they be special?
The underlying motivation limit access, the park is being loved to death. Fees could limit visits. It also brings more rules , regulations and waste. So much for the friendly Smoky Mountains. The peoples park.
I believe in paying my own way , user fees are a good thing. We have the best highway system, well maintained and safe due to fuel tax. Im sure park officials can do the same. Never would they fence people out or let a just special few through. Could be for some managers “the park is a beautiful place if it wasn’t for the people”. Never happen right? Government would never move you out. Just ask native Americans, the thousand home owners from the 1930 who once lived where the park is today. “Trust is we have your best interest at heart.”
Keep parking free. No lottery tickets parking for me. More fees less service more hassle , government management .
I understand most don’t share my views. Guessing I’ll take my lumps. Well for what I am about to receive, my I be truly thankful. BLESSINGS
I've regularly visited and used the park since 1963 (I'm a Senior Pass holder) and have witnessed, from the vantage points of driving and hiking, the impacts of uncontrollable overuse. For GSMNP to be able to fulfill its congressionally managed purpose of preserving the natural and historical integrity of the park it needs money. This is an excellent proposal. People willingly spend ten times that amount, per person per day, for entertainment in Gatlinburg or in the casino in Cherokee. A parking pass is the best deal to be found anywhere within one hundred miles of the park. It's about preserving the park. I have no objection, none at all, in participating with GSMNP in supporting that goal with my money.
I was born and raised in Knoxville. Cades Cove is wore out from overuse.
"People willingly spend ten times that amount, per person per day, for entertainment in Gatlinburg or in the casino in Cherokee. "
And they'll be less likely to actually visit the park. Then again, if the park is going to collect fees for use, they shouldn't be coming to Congress for further funding. Congress can just tell them to increase their fees. That might help reduce the number of tourists that support the area.
This is an awesome insight Sir. Thank you for offering your experienced perspective
@@heehaw8401 They just repaved Cades Cove less than two months ago. The buildings aren't supposed to be maintained except by the churches that still have access to them.
And you know the cove was closed again for several days recently because the pavement had problems. Was there the first weekend in April. It’s worn out.
Charging for Parking? There is very little parking any where and what you described was basically there will be no parking. The park needs an upgrade in every way including park manay..just charge to enter, give people there discounts.
I was surprised this year by the number of parks that have found a way around the acceptance of the annual pass. You pay for the pass and then again to enjoy the park.
Before long these passes will be worthless.
What other parks are you finding that no longer accept the pass?
@@theparkjunkieMammoth Cave comes to mind. Any park that was managed by a vendor. Several of the National Monuments that we visited such as cave dwellings in New Mexico.
@@ronwooten6913 Yeah, you are correct…. Many of the “tour” parks do impose additional fees to access the areas that require a guide. Wind Cave, Mesa Verde & Mammoth do this. I understand that if I need a guide, I may incur an additional fee to visit the desired site. I do however share your concern that there is likely a move afoot to squeeze more money out of
park visitors by any means possible, pass or not.
Thanks for a clear and detailed explanation of a fairly complex topic, especially the history of the toll road prohibitions.
I'd say go for it, but as an access pass holder.....they should alow the passes used at all other parks.
I think parking fees are a reasonable solution to the increased demand. Thanks for the insight Jason. $40 per year & having day and week options in lieu of the annual pass make it flexible for most visitors. I would like to see a discounted fee for Senior and ATB passes though.
"Thanks for the insight Jason. $40 per year & having day and week options in lieu of the annual pass make it flexible for most visitors. "
It's a good way to reduce today's visitors which also reduces tomorrow's park advocates.
@@wisenber agree
@@wisenber I see your point - BUT - I will have to disagree. A lot of folks are spending hundreds, if not thousands, at nearby Gatlinburg etc. If someone can't see the value in putting $40 yearly (or $5 for a day - was it?) toward such a great resource, then they probably aren't going to truly appreciate it anyway.
@@HMHSrams " BUT - I will have to disagree."
Some will. disagree. Most of the people staying in Gatlinburg are the one driving through the park as opposed to actually hiking on a trail and parking.
" If someone can't see the value in putting $40 yearly (or $5 for a day - was it?) toward such a great resource"
In this case, "the resource" would be mostly paying for new parking enforcement officers to enforce all of the parking areas. However, the intent of the fees is to reduce visitation which reduces future park advocates. Then again, the "14M visitors" is probably closer to 4M unique visitors since locals transiting the park to and from work are counted as 15-20 visitors a week when they drive over the counters.
I never understood Senior discounts, people who have been working the longest and have the most assets and wealth should get a discount? I guess it’s to keep them staying active for cheap?
Lifetime Resident of Sevierville (County Seat of the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area). It's a bad idea. Whenever government proposes introducing a fee it usually means they will cut from one end of a blanket and sew it to the other and claim they are making the blanket longer. I seriously doubt the funds collected will do anything but fund paying employees to sit in little booths and additional parking police to enforce the "rules". If they still want to charge for admittance here is an idea: Charge $50 per car to drive through Cades Cove. I would love to hear the tourist howl at that idea. But likely, it will get squandered like everything else the government touches.
Edit: I added a response to my initial thought. As a local, I love my mountains, just not the Federal Government that mismanages it.
I think he explained in the video that they can’t charge entry fee’s!
I've had a few days to think about this video from my initial response. The park not being modernized, maintained, or as Jason was eluding to “overrun” with visitors not because of a lack of funding but a lack of desire. The GSMNP was not set aside out of a altruistic desire to preserve natural spaces, but was set aside to create a strategic reserve for lumber, and because people could enjoy the forest was a presented as a “benefit” to the masses. But like so many other things, we live on the backs of those that came before us, there is little desire to invest our devalued currency into things that won't benefit those in power (no matter the letter after their name). As a result we send our treasure to foreign shores to achieve some goal or another and our infrastructure at home is just kicked down the road for the next generation to figure out what to do with it.
I agree. I am local too. Those behind this have little knowledge of the net impact it will create. Second, the increase to the park was because TN was one of the only states with no vivid mandates. They have not done any research to the impact or why the increase visits in the last 2 years. Just pure backwards logic. But I am sure these same people will be upset when their taxes increase because of lost revenue from tourism.
I agree, Dave. I like your analogy of our government, it's spot on ! Problem, Reaction, Solution No one better than gov. at it !
Though he may not be camping currently as age has crept in my Uncle was an avid RVer who lived in the Smokies. He would be spitting nails right now lol
Rather than raising taxes on all Americans, why not charge those that actually use the park?
Why? They have always charged to camp
😂😂
Parking an RV is NOT camping.
@@safromnc8616 use whatever label you wish. Tents, trailers, Motorhomes, whatever you want to call it we all do it differently and have fun in our own ways 😊
I absolutely support this, and would be excited to see the improvements made as a result of the increased funding. First time watching this channel and I've got to say that this was probably one of the most informative videos I've ever watched on TH-cam. I appreciate the non-biased reporting!
Charging for parking is a slippery slope. Next thing you know, if it becomes lucrative, every national park will have ‘must pay parking’ and they will all claim its due to not having enough funding. So at that point it’ll be a pass to enter, and a pass to park. I don’t like the look of this at all.
Also everyone who is ‘happy’ to pay more, there is nothing stopping you from giving the government more of your hard earned money. But not everyone has that luxury of throwing money everywhere.
They have several donation boxes around the park, or you can donate electronically. The government thanks you.
I totally agree with parking fees at GSMNP. The NP system is a jewel that must be protected and this is a good way to help in that cause.
"I totally agree with parking fees at GSMNP."
They did the same think with backcountry backpacking. 75 years with no charge, then they added fees despite declining numbers of backpackers. They're also going to double the backpacking fees with the addition of parking.
You shouldn’t have to pay to park in something you own. This is a cash grab.
@@user-tb7rn1il3q Fascinating. So if you own something you don't pay anything to maintain it? I suspect if that's your philosophy then I hope all of your property including your vehicles work without any maintenance. Because if you're paying for maintenance then that's no different than paying a fee for our parks. The National Park system is sorely underfunded. So, there are only two ways to resolve this problem. Raise taxes for everyone or charge those that actually use the parks. Yes we own it, but ownership comes with responsibility to maintain what we own. It's pretty straightforward.
@@rollingeezer They are overfunded. They overbuild and overstaff everything. The roads and parking lots should be gravel/dirt. They don’t need any buildings, just a few portable toilets and a trailer for the staff. I want a natural experience.
@@user-tb7rn1il3q The beauty of this proposal is folks like you that want a natural experience can have it. Walk-there are no fees and you have roughly 71 miles of the Appalachian Trail that requires no fees in this National Park. Just leave no trace of your presence so others can enjoy nature's beauty. A car is unnatural so your goals are accomplished. For the rest of us who want to experience nature with 21st century accomodations, we're happy to pay such a nominal fee.
The real potential disaster here seems to be invisible for most. Anyone who has been to this park may recall the amount of roadside parking necessary for accessing popular trails & points of interest. If this is no longer available, the limited parking spots will fill quickly, & there will likely be far more motorists seeking parking spaces (& paying for parking spaces) than there are parking spaces. I predict chaos & very unhappy visitors… but we’ll see.
Thanks!
Thank you so much!
Thanks for the update! I don't having issue the new feeds. I visit Bodie Island Lighthouse last weekend and I had to pay to walk to the top of the lighthouse. The amount they are charging is not unreasonable. BUT, I should offer a discount to pass holders and seniors. Again the feeds are not unreasonable.
Having grown up in East Tennessee and these mountains it hurts me to pay to park in my own mountains. Charge the tourist from out of state. Tennessee and North Carolina should exempt from paying to park in our own park. We will no longer be able to go to popular trails due to removing road side parking. Please listen to the residents.
It's true there are many trails that just don't have trailhead parking space. I wonder what they'll do about that 🤔
It's a National Park and belongs to ALL citizens of this country, not just those in Tennessee and North Carolina.
@@katherinebotma560 The Tennessee and North Carolina residents are the ones who had their land taken from them to create the park in the first place. Thansands of families were forced to leave their home and land for little of nothing.
@@katherinebotma560 so let me educate you just a little bit my ancestors gave up their land and what you know now is Cades cove that is now the park that you enjoy. Do you know how much that property would be worth in today's numbers.
@@rickcoffey5309 best pay up to the original people of Tennessee then: the Cherokee, most of whom were forcibly removed to what is now Oklahoma.
I have been to this park once. And I’m ok with having a fee to park. I just wonder where the people who are parking along the road where they will park when told can’t park there where they would go. Thank you Jason for this video and the information. Hope Abby had a great Mother’s Day!
As long as the money stays within the GSMNP I don't have too many issues with the parking fee. However, being handicapped, it would be nice if our senior and handicap passes would afford us some discounts. Especially with folks on fixed incomes.
Totally agreed. Senior and handicap should get free parking.
Just Another Tax. Congress a month or so ago gave themselves a 21% raise. While they cut programs that were designed to be free for all people other than the fact that your tax dollars are suppose to pay for the National Parks. But hey just keep letting the Government into your pockets and they will keep getting more of your money.
The opposite of FREEDOM is having a MASTER
We, the decendants of The Great Smoky Mountains Park should not be charged to park,cause, hike or anything to do with the park. Most families were pushed out of the park with nothing, all while te ppl that were taking the park were building there summer homes in Elkmont and giving themselves a lifetime lease. They named on of their roads "Millionaires Row". Well these families didn't even leave when time was up. The sued to stay and they stayed wee into the late 2000's, crying that this is my families home, how could they make us leave.
Makes me sick.
Let the government put money into the park like the should, they only have 7 Ranger in the park.
It deserves money from the government now...
"We, the decendants of The Great Smoky Mountains Park should not be charged to park"
We were promised just that, yet the park has used every backdoor method possible to get around that promise.
I am glad to see that y'all are doing something to bring in more income. Just seeing the amount of road improvements that are required almost annually is crazy!
What funded the maintenance and repairs up until now? Parking fees are a big inconvenience. They'll spend more money that should be spent on maintenance and repairs on parking enforcement. Now every National park will institute this on top of the fees that they are charging for entrance now. After a year of managing the enforcement of the parking fees all of the rates will go up again.
As a Sevier county local and a avid smokies backpacker I'm thrilled at the changes and can't wait for the day admissions are required. The Park is my happy place and I'm ok with paying a little extra to keep it the beautiful wilderness I love.
Individually these little costs aNd and price hikes seem reasonable. Collectively the are pricing lower income people out of parks intended for them.
By pricing out I mean reducing visits due to costs. Public parks and recreation areas are what low income families have for vacation and entertainment vs cruises, theme parks and even movie nights.
Jason Glad you are feeling better! We were at Great Smoky NP last August and really enjoyed it. Parking is a BIG problem there! So charging for parking i'm okay with (Do people camping in the park need a parking pass or included in there fee?). The part i don't like is they think they are going to eliminate parking along the road is just crazy!! Some areas only have parking for a few cars! I don't see that happening or think that is a HUGE mistake!! Built alot more parking and/or widen the road for safer parking along the road...
thank you for the update!
I support an entrance/parking fee, but should not charge for passholders. I oppose efforts to get around passes like this and not honoring camping discount at concessioner managed campgounds
Totally agree!
We spent good money on the senior lifetime pass and they just keep on telling us that is no good at more and more federal places. We should be able to get a refund.
I used to volunteer in a national park unit that had one million visitors annually, and the cuts to park operating funds had our staffing level so bare-boned that it hurt the visitor experience. Our maintenance staff couldn't keep up with the needs, and our interpretive staff relied heavily on volunteers to run the visitor center and other interpretive programs. In fact, I would be the one opening the visitor center at 9 a.m. and on most days, I wouldn't see a ranger until lunchtime.
Fees like these, as unpopular as they are, support the operations and preservation of our national treasures. If you live near a park, consider volunteering.
I've been a VIP (Volunteer In Park) and will be so again this summer. To what you wrote, I say, "True, that."
Eliminating the roadside parking is going to cause a nightmare, there just aren’t enough parking lots to handle the traffic. Which is gonna piss a lot of people off when they pay for parking only to find no spaces. I use the backcountry campsites often and I’m perfectly ok with paying more for those and for increasing the other campsite and access fees. But this parking plan is going to be a massive problem.
People who regularly hike and backpack there understand what a pain this is going to be, especially if you're in hiking groups. Those hiking groups also do a lot of volunteer work there.
I don't like the fee, and I don't like being told I can't park along side the roads where I have always parked. As a senior, I am really ticked off that I am having to pay twice!
What about local residents will they get a cheaper pass?
Never been there but just by looking at this video, it seems like if they don't have parking along the road, then they won't have nearly enough parking spots. So now you create a bigger problem unless you first go in and build more parking lots.
I’m ok with the parking fees but I also feel like the America The Beautiful passes should be honored
Same. Those displaying the pass shouldn't have to buy a separate parking pass
I believe the parking rate is reasonable but would encourage a senior discount. I particularly appreciate not allowing unofficial roadside parking along the road by trailheads.
The elimination of parking places will cause an even bigger congestion problem
I support the parking and increased camping fees 100%. I would like to see the primitive camping fee remain the same and the electric hookups be $40.00.
Agreed, I'm a hookups camper but have no problem subsidizing those without the means, if you've got the means to buy an RV and pay for gas to move it around and need to have hookups then you can probably afford the fees to do so but anyone with a tent and the ability to get to the park should be able to enjoy them regardless of their means. I did many years of car camping and while not poor I was certainly not well off, now that I'm fortunate enough to have the means I feel a need to help the next generation of going families behind me and anyone else who just wants to get out and enjoy these beautiful places that are held in public trust.
The point of increasing the primitive camping fee is to employ more staff and groups to keep up with the overall clean up and maintenance of those primative sites and shelters. The amount of trash and human waste that's left by weekend backpackers is atrocious. Not to mention it will help with the health and safety of AT through hikers, by preventing weekend warriors (who are the main source of the trash and waste) from taking over all the needed sites and shelters from the through hikers.
I think $75.00 would be more fair, and maybe a $20.00 processing fee. Primitive camping should be at least 3 times as much and a overnight parking permit for another $20.00 a night. If you have the money to come here a few extra dollars shouldn't matter.
We haven't been to the Great Smokies in 25 years and that was for our 25th anniversary. We were just talking about going this year again for out 50th.
Good timing on this video.
We are happy to contribute ! Anything to keep the Parks running! We love the Smokies, and all of the Parks! What a privilege to have access to such beautiful places!
Big woop! Thats still a great deal for parking and camping fees....plus it supports the park. If we can pay for fuel to get there, the fees shouldn't be a problem.
"Thats still a great deal for parking and camping fees."
Unless you're in a local hiking group.
It hurts the poor people in the and around the area
I randomly stumbled to this video off of a google suggestion and I’m glad I did. You are very knowledgeable and the history lesson was appreciated.
Thanks for giving this video a chance and for the comment. Appreciated!
We go to Gatlinburg every year from Baltimore and love the smoky mountain national park. It's so beautiful. Clingmans dome is amazing.
14 million visitors a year with an average $5 parking fee comes out to 70 million. Then double the back country camping? Wow do you think the park can survive on an additional 80 million a year?
Got back from there today! Very reasonable pricing to maintain the beauty of the park. People spend half that much for one meal at a fast food joint
I'm wondering if the parking fees would apply to the quite walk ways with only one or two places to pull off?
Yes.
Skirting the original agreement to never charge an entrance fee to land that belongs fed to the people of East Tennessee.
It all should be free because we pay taxes let the politicians take a pay cut to fund the park
A parking pass without a guaranteed parking spot is asking for trouble. And stopping roadside parking at trail heads will severely limit the number of hikers/walkers using the trails. After a few times of buying mandatory passes with no place to park, folks will take their money and business elsewhere. I, for one, won’t spend money on a parking pass and then spend my day circling like a vulture waiting on a space to open up.
I live in East Tennessee and have always felt so blessed to have such a beautiful place in my back yard. My family has camped in the mountains regularly as an affordable get away. Regulations are probably necessary but it makes me sad that campsites are going to be so expensive…it will likely make camping out of range of families like mine.
I have a National Park pass and I was charged for parking at Ocala National Forest. I was infuriated as I thought my Federal government violated my contract when I purchased my lifetime NP pass which promised free access to national parks for life. Where are our elected officials when we need them?
If you voted for Biden there' your sign.
Thanks for the good explanation of why they haven't charged fees and how they plan to implement fees. I grew up hiking in the Smokies in the 1970s and 80s. Stopped going 20+ years ago, just too crowded. I'm glad they're going to charge and hope it will go towards maintenance and improvements and management to the use (and overuse). Seems like it might increase congestion though, and make the Park more of a "drive through" destination. Many trailheads lack room for a parking area, so wonder how they'll be accessed. One downside is that it might reduce access to the Park for low income people. When I was growing up, we definitely could not have paid to enter. There's never a perfect answer. Thanks again!
"Many trailheads lack room for a parking area, so wonder how they'll be accessed."
The plan basically provides a parking "hunting license". Paying for a pass doesn't guarantee you'll be able to use it. Parking outside of the lots will mean tickets.
That being said, 80% of the park isn't crowded.
"One downside is that it might reduce access to the Park for low income people. "
I went backpacking in the park during college because it was free and i couldn't afford anything else. If there had been fees, I never would have started going there.
I am a a disabled veteran with a lifetime access pass and have no issue with paying fees-as long as they are used for the specific parts that are charging them. Fees going to a general fund are fees going down a black hole
I think parking fees are a smart way to generate revenue for upkeep! I would hope they would increase the number of parking spots since on shoulder parking would be prohibited and would cause traffic jams as people look for a place to park.
" I would hope they would increase the number of parking spots"
The proposal reduces them and includes fines for shoulder parking.
I would gladly pay the fee to assist with raising funds for the upkeep of this wonderful amazing treasure! I have often wondered if anyone ever used the donation boxes scattered around the park. Hopefully this money would ensure that this park will be around for future generations!
After my last visit to Gatlinburg and the park, it’ll be a cold day in h**l before I go back. One of the worst getaways I’ve had in my life. Ridiculous amount of people. Horrible.
Try the north carolina side (not cherokee), like Sylva, dillsboro, bryson city. Delightful small town atmospheres and very little crowding. Park facilities can actually be used also without crowds
Also, GREAT campground at Whittier, NC, about 5 miles up the mountain behind Whittier and away from the 4 lane. Every camp site is next to a big creek and most in the shade, all sites 50 feet wide or more. Power and water and dump station. Can't even get an AM radio station there, which is great!! Timberlake camp ground. Tell 'em I sent you.
@@jimcollins8097 Thanks Jim, wish we had thought of this before we wasted 4 days of our life in Gatlinburg! It sure was different than when we got married there 25 years ago.
@@witteney3334 My parents took us there four years in a row in the late 60's, went back in 2015. The Gatlinburg with crafters was replaced with tourist trap crap.
I don’t have an issue with paying for parking, but eliminating roadside parking at the popular trailheads is going to create more problems. The designated parking areas are very limited. What about people parking to go to Mt Leconte Lodge? I drive all the way from Cades Cove to Alum Cave to hike and no parking.
Great update. The only change I would suggest is these changes are not entrance fees as you stated once in your video. They are parking and specific use fees. You will still be able to enter without the parking fee permit as you stated.
I’ve been visiting, vacationing, hiking, camping, biking and doing all the wonderful activities this park offers. I think it’s a wonderful idea to add these parking fees to help fund and continue to patrol and care for this park. It’s really a small price for all this park and this wonderful are offers. Other parks already charge day use and back country camping fees. There are passes for veterans and senior citizens in other State and National Forrest so hopefully these passes will be made available when this cost is added. It’s amazing how good of a job the park does now with lack of help and money so I know they will be great stewards of needed revue. Keep up the great work!
"I’ve been visiting, vacationing, hiking, camping, biking and doing all the wonderful activities this park offers."
The you understand that buying a parking pass doesn't actually mean a parking space will be available.
Backpacking was free for the first 75 years, then it was $4 per person per night, now $8 per person per night within a decade. If it's $40 today, why would it be a stretch to be $120 a few years down the road? Getting the fee approved is the primary hurdle, after that, increases are easy.
Why can't they have pay stations at each parking lot and you only pay if you find a parking spot and or get businesses in the Gatlinburg area to do fundraising for the smokies or hey do you want to round up your purchase and donate to the smokies
Other than providing a discount for pass holders, this makes perfect sense to me. Great Smoky, along with most other NP units, is seriously underfunded. Some of the difference between the the existing funding and those needed needs to be paid by the people who are actually using the park. All of us, through our taxes, whether or not we use this particular park, need to pay part to preserve these National treasures.
I think it's a good idea for the parking passes. The rate seemed fine to me to help out with all the areas. But, I wish they would add a little discount for us seniors that have a senior pass.
You want parking fees but you don't want to pay as much as everybody else?
Take one percent of the “Billions of Dollars” we send overseas and give it to the National Park Service to maintain and improve our National Parks. Taking one percent of those funds would give the National Park Service more money than they know what too do with.
Hopefully the parking charges will cause enough of a uproar from the public to force the state’s involved to change their laws to allow entry charges instead. Be interesting to watch how this boils out.
Totally agree!
I believe as long as is to better the parks and also increase security to the visitors is great thing to do.
Thanks
Since I have a lifetime pass, I would like a reduced fee like we get for camping. But understand the problem, we are loving our parks to death.
Thank you for the info, always love your updates and know we can trust it.
Thank you for watching and for the kids words.
I'm against any fee to park, but I'm sure it will pass. I hope they spend some of the money for the Park Rangers to take some public relations classes. Most people's only interaction with Park Rangers is at a bear jam and the Rangers are screaming "MOVE IT ALONG! NOTHING TO SEE HERE!! NO TIME FOR PICTURES!! MOVE IT!!! Real nice people.
After going last Fall and staying in the quiet side of the Smokies I was sad to see that people had gone to the bathroom all over in Cades Cove and left their toilet paper as well. I lived in Pigeon Forge and since moving in 2015 try to go back to hike every year. I don’t mind paying to park if there is a space available if you are going to hike or explore make sure to be at the trailhead before 7 in the morning. I for one will visit the other side of the smokies from now on where when paying it isn’t like going to an amusement park.
Very fair, especially if part of the parking fee goes to more parking, which is more needed than ever with roadside parking taken away. (Nice explanation!)
Yeah, except for the vehicle with more people in them.
Wow! These fees are a bargain considering what you get and the benefits to the park itself.
"Wow! These fees are a bargain considering what you get "
Unless you're a local and actually use it often. Adding fees and reducing parking is no bargain.
Never compliment a merchant on the quality of their merchandise or the fairness of their prices...
For the latter will increase as the former declines.
So u have to pay to park your car at trailhead parking lots but u can't park on the side of the road so u will never be able to park and hike as parking along side the road is the only place to park in most cases. This is rediculas. Then increasing fees at the campgrounds too. This is just a money grab and think of all the new parking enforcement people that will be handing out 100 dollar tickets because u had to park along side the road even after paying to park.
I live near the GSMNP. I'm not paying for parking.
You’ll have to if you want to visit the park. This will pass.
@@RVMiles locals will not.
Tourism will suffer because there are not enough designated parking spaces so no one is going to pay for a parking pass that won't guarantee a place to park.
I agree with parking passes. A lot of work needs to be done inside the park and I'm excited that they will have money now to improve the necessary areas. I live in Gatlinburg most of the year and I will be getting the annual pass. I'm more upset over the price of food and gas across America. Thanks for the info
" A lot of work needs to be done inside the park "
The park received stimulus money in 2009 and again in 2020, yet the projects never seem to get done even when funded.
This reminds me of what I heard (unconfirmed) about Mount Rushmore. The Artist that carved Mount Rushmore made sure that they could never impose an entrance fee to visitors so they built a payed parking structure and eliminated all road parking around it. It works well.
Went 8 years ago late May, got up early and got a spot right at my trail head. Headed back this summer w the whole fam and camper. Will be interesting to see differences in park attendance. Going in mid June this year sure it’ll be packed.
And to add I will be curious to see how it’s enforced. But have no problem with the prices
As I recall pennies were collected by school children to help buy land for the park. And money that was raised to create the park was matched by John D. Rockefeller Jr. who was instrumental in the creation of other national parks. But, I thought there was a mandate in the creation of the Smokies that there could never be an entrance fee. As someone who has enjoyed visiting and photographing the Smokies my whole adult life, I would be glad to pay a reasonable yearly fee. But, like many national parks, it has too many visitors and I don't know how the park can deal with that.
"But, I thought there was a mandate in the creation of the Smokies that there could never be an entrance fee."
It's just a backdoor way around it.
Rockefeller donated $5,000,000 in 1928 for the purchase of GSMNP.
@@jfreeham Vanderbilt donated the Pisgah National Forest.
Locals who visit he park frequently will have to start paying to visit their ancestral homes and farms.
Charging is fine BUT there needs to be Seniors and Locals discounted annual fee!
If parking helps fund maintenance and repairs then it’s a good thing. Always enjoy your content!
We grew up 20 miles from the park and have seen major changes over our 60+ years. Something needed to be done as the damage has grown exponentially to the land and buildings. The parking pass is just another way of saying an admission fee and I’m fine with it. My only but… is no discount for the pass holders. I don’t us my America the Beautiful pass very much but disappointing that I want get a break.
I agree with what you wrote, save for the "but." I wrote this as a Senior.
Parking fees should be used for bettering the parking. Who wants to pay to park and then not have a place to park. Will have less parking than there is now... What is the benefit again? Tell the truth, it is not for parking, only calling it that to legally collect a fee.
That was a great history lesson too!
If the park is going to charge for parking, the fee needs to be high enough to accomplish the proposed goals. On the flip side of the coin, it would be good to start a precedent of discounts for active duty military and veteran visitors. If you take away roadside parking, the paved parking areas will probably need to be enlarged. You can't realistically or ethically expect to charge visitors for parking and then not have parking spaces.
This is horrible. The volunteers that keep it clean won't anymore. Secod, this will hurt TN since they will lose revenue with visitors. I know who is behind this and they reasons they give are not logical. Second, they have no problem with the surrounding land to be built up by amusement parks and hotels.
There's no one at that Senior Citizens should have to pay for parking.
I used to live near there and went very often into the park but I haven’t been in a few years. Since parking in the park is so sparse I don’t know how they are going to pull this off. Plus I assume the overlooks that have only a couple spots meant for people to stop only for a few minutes to see the scenery won’t require you have a parking pass.
Great update!
I totally disagree with bypassing the annual passes. They just need to charge an entry fee. And let the annual passes cover the entry fee just like they do have other national parks.
They cannot charge an entry fee.
@@tonydeardorff Sure they can, they change things and do what they want all the time! My main point is they should not charge you if you have a National Park Annual Pass!
@@texaslonestarrider A whopping $15 for a week! Just pay and don't whine.
I disagree with charging disability, seniors and locals, charge out of state visitors, because locals do not damage the park, and seniors respect the park also, and disabled deserve free public access
All people should pay locals and out of state visitors.in wi we all pay except seniors,military and disable
@@cynthianussbaumer8758 I don't think smoky mountains Sevier county locals should have to pay to get in, because it was set up as a legally free park from the donation of the land, but regardless my hubby is a Veteran, we are seniors and I am technically listed as protected disabled, although not through legal process
With all due respect, how will this affect veterans with a disabled pass? I have no problem paying my fair share! I just wanted to find out ahead of time! Thank you and God bless America 🇺🇸 and the smoky mountains 🏔 forever! Respectfully submitted, Ron
Hopefully this will help to maintain the beauty of the park.
Thank you for this information. I had not heard about this.
I think they should charge $20 for day parking and $100 annual. Give discount for senior and disabled pass members.
Thanks for the clear explanation of why an entrance fee isn't charged. I always wondered why at this park. I'm OK with the parking fee as it seems to be a reasonable solution to obtaining revenue, especially with the increased demand.
"I'm OK with the parking fee "
Until you realize paying for a parking pass doesn't mean there's actually a parking space where you want to go.
I’m in favor of a parking charge. Doesn’t seem outrageous and the money would go to good use. Most, if not all parks charge an entrance fee. The Great Smokies are beautiful and the boost in income would help keep them that way. Anyone enjoying the land should share in its preservation.
Since when has our government ever put our tax paying dollars “to good use”?
@@TrimansWife Much of our taxes go to good causes. Only the mis-spends are sensationalized and talked about. Sounds like you haven’t worked for the government to see all the good we do. Yes there are some abuses (I’m not an ostrich) but there is plenty of good. I say show us what they can do and not shoot it down before it has a chance.
@@carolconnell9521 I have worked for government agencies and have witnessed some good but so much waste. Sounds like you trust the government no matter what.
I wouldn't mind a parking fee but lets face it, the Federal Govt has mismanaged the parks system for 50 years and has squandered the funds. As Americans we are constantly being taxed ,feed and charged for services that are suppose to be free. Our tax dollars are already allocated for NAtional parks but the bureaucracy has robbed the parks of the designated funds. Cuts to all the services over the years is what has plagued the National Parks. Our crooked politicians only see taxes and fees a sway to generate funds for their pet projects that have nothing to do with the Parks. People need to vote these baffoons out of office but we al lknow that won't happen