Government Shutdown Disrupts Multiple U.S. National Parks and Services

Several national parks and wildlife refuges across the United States remain operational during the ongoing government shutdown, but they face significant challenges including unpaid staff and limited services. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park continues to attract large crowds for peak fall foliage, supported by funding from groups like Friends of the Smokies to maintain staffing and safety. Meanwhile, Shenandoah National Park in Virginia struggles with unpaid employees and lost revenue, urging visitors to donate since usual fees cannot be collected during the shutdown. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge near Denver has closed its visitor center and suspended volunteer activities, causing financial losses and impacting ranger programs and school trips. The National Weather Service also experiences low morale as many employees work without pay, highlighting the broader strain on federal agencies. These disruptions underscore the wider consequences of the government shutdown on public lands, services, and employees during critical visitor seasons.