The U.S. Forest Service has released its draft decision to limit the number of daily visitors to Hanging Lake.
In an effort to protect rare geological formations and a fragile ecosystem, the Forest Service will set a daily cap of 615 hikers permitted to visit Hanging Lake. That’s a 40 percent reduction from the busiest days in the past year. Visitors will need to pay a fee to make a reservation, but the price hasn’t been set yet.
To address safety concerns during peak season, there will also be a shuttle to the trailhead. The Forest Service will seek bids to operate that shuttle.
The Forest Service hopes to implement the plan this spring, after a 45-day objection period.