As anticipation builds for the upcoming total solar eclipse, national parks situated in the path of totality are gearing up for an influx of spring travelers. Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas and Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio, both located within the eclipse’s trajectory, are taking proactive measures to manage the expected crowds and ensure visitor safety.
Hot Springs National Park officials have issued advisories urging travelers to anticipate heavy traffic on roadways. They emphasize the importance of checking for local roadway closures and advise visitors to exercise patience and courtesy while driving. Additionally, the park will provide shuttle services to transport visitors to official viewing areas, alleviating congestion and facilitating access.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, sprawling across 33,000 acres south of Cleveland, anticipates a surge in traffic and has likewise published advisory notices outlining essential information for travelers. The park will implement parking lot closures in the lead-up to the eclipse, with several lots shuttered from sunset on Sunday until sunrise on Monday. Notable closures include the Boston Mill Visitor Center, Canal Exploration Center, Pine Hollow, and Station Road Bridge Trailhead, among others. Furthermore, the park will be closed entirely from sunset on Sunday through the entirety of Monday, affecting locations such as Boston Trailhead, Boston Store limited mobility lot, and Brandywine Falls. Comprehensive details regarding closures are available on the park’s official website.
In light of the expected influx of visitors, park authorities encourage locals to opt for viewing the eclipse from the comfort of their homes or neighborhoods, emphasizing the convenience and safety of such arrangements.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park Superintendent Lisa Petit underscored this sentiment, stating, “If you live in the area, your home or neighborhood is where you’ll have the ‘best seat in the house’ for eclipse viewing.”
Amidst the preparations, nearby businesses are also witnessing increased activity leading up to the celestial event. Valley Overlook Lodging & Campground, nestled within the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, has experienced a surge in bookings as eclipse enthusiasts from across the country flock to the area.
“People are very excited, and what this has shown us is there are eclipse enthusiasts who will travel for this event,” remarked Mary Schoen, a marketing representative for Valley Overlook. “Being immersed in nature, and in the park, is going to add to the eclipse experience.”
In addition to park-related preparations, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued guidance warning of increased activity at airports and in the skies during the eclipse and the peak spring break holiday period, advising travelers and aviation stakeholders to plan accordingly.