Moonhouse Access Restricted

[PaleoRob]

http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/fo/monticello.html

Is "The Marauders" becoming more fact than fiction?

MCloyd Canyon/ Moonhouse Recreation Management Zone Day Use Permits

Public access will be limited to 36 people per day via a permit system for day visits. Entry into Moonhouse Recreation Management Zone requires a Special Recreation Permit available only at the Kane Gulch Ranger Station during the high use season. Day, Week, and Annual Permit holders must get their permits validated for Moonhouse hikes at the Kane Gulch Ranger Station prior to their hike. During the off season, permits will be available on a first come first serve basis at the trailhead entry. All commercial and private groups of 8 or more must have an advance reservation, available from the Monticello Field Office permit desk. Maximum group size is 12. There is no overnight camping within the Management Zone, and car camping is limited only to the designated primitive camp and park area south of Snow Flat Road. Pets are not allowed in this management zone.

[Sredfield]

Lovin it to death???

[PaleoRob]

Apparently.

[big_load]

Well, Rob gave us fair warning.

[PaleoRob]

Well, Rob gave us fair warning.

Its true! Don't say I didn't warn y'all!

[Digital_Sherpa]

You've needed a permit for a while now. I had to get one last May when I visited. Also, there were volunteers from the Kane Gulch Ranger station sitting all day at the top of the canyon checking everyone going in and coming out. I saw only three other hikers all day. I've been visiting MH for several years now and the condition is still impeccable. Let's hope it stays that way...now that it's getting more publicity.

[PaleoRob]

Interesting. When I was getting permits for our (aborted) Government/Collins trip, there was no mention of special use permits either at KGRS or on their website - just the normal day hiking permits you could pick up at the trailhead. This is the first I've heard of it. Interesting.

[colowlkr]

How were the ground conditions? Snow on the mesa tops? Just getting ready to go in a few weeks.

[PaleoRob]

As of two weeks ago, there was snow on the ground in Valley of the Gods, but it was melting. I'd imagine that the conditions on the mesa at the moment are snowy and muddy. Call Natural Bridges for updated information - I don't think KGRS is open yet.