Firearms in National Parks: What's Changed and Why You Need to Know

When it comes to firearms and where a person is legally allowed to carry one, there seems to be a lot of confusion. Each state has its own conceal carry laws, some that are reciprocal to other states.

In 2010, the United States Congress changed a longstanding law that prohibited most people from carrying most firearms on National Park property. While there are still rules every person carrying a firearm must adhere to, this law vastly changed and widened the ability to carry a firearm.

Here’s a handy cheat sheet to the basics.

I am licensed to carry a concealed weapon in the state of Utah. Often when I am hiking alone or in unfamiliar terrain where there are threats of wild animals, I carry a handgun. You must not take this responsibility lightly. For example, carrying a small handgun and thinking that you're going to stop a bear attack is just silly and will probably cause you more harm than good. Responsible firearm owners know their weapon(s) capabilities and take great care to ensure they are secure when not in use.

How do you feel about firearms in parks? Yay or nay?  

Trailhead Signage Showing the Elevation, Bryce Canyon National Park (Photo Credit: Lisa Miller)

Bryce Canyon National Park (Photo Credit: Lisa Miller)