What To Know As National Parks Begin Reopening In Phases

U.S. National Parks throughout the country are opening in stages, according to the National Parks Service.

New Jersey has decided to reopen its state parks on May 2 to activities like hiking, boating, and fishing, according to an executive order. Places like picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms, however, would remain closed.

“We understand that New Jerseyans want to get outside and get some fresh air as the weather warms up,” Governor Phil Murphy said in a statement. “However, this should not serve as an open invitation to rush back to normalcy and break the necessary social distancing measures we’ve put in place. This approach will also bring New Jersey in line with our neighboring states, which will discourage residents from needlessly crossing state lines for recreation.”

The reopening plans come after President Donald Trump promised earlier this week the parks would welcome visitors again.

According to the NPS, a portion of the road at Denali National Park in Alaska has reopened and plans to open even more of the park are in the works. This follows Alaska’s decision to start reopening businesses, limited restaurant operations, and retail stores on April 24.

Check out the full article from Travel + Leisure here.