ST GEORGE – The governor’s Office of Economic Development is encouraging families to take advantage of its new national parks incentive program: Utah’s Mighty Five. The Mighty Five program challenges Utahns to visit Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park before the end of the year, with discounted lodging, heightened hospitality and rare seasonal vacancies available at hotels and motels in most gateway communities as a result of the federal government shutdown.
Stunning fall colors and cool temperatures, as well as an upcoming long weekend for Utah’s school children, make this a prime to visit; which is why, according to the statement released today by the governor’s office, Gary Herbert negotiated the reopening of Utah’s parks.
This has turned into a great opportunity for Utahns to visit the state’s national parks and support local businesses, the statement said.
The Mighty Five national parks are integral to Utah’s $7.4 billion dollar tourism industry. Last year, more than 6.6 million people from all over the world visited Utah’s national parks.
In the Bryce Canyon area, virtually all reservations are currently available at significant discounts.
“How often do you get a chance to see the world’s best red rock with your family, while supporting Utah’s local businesses and communities at the same time?” Herbert said. “If ever there was a time to plan a great weekend adventure, it’s right now. Families can have unforgettable ‘Utah: Life Elevated’ experiences, and become official Mighty Five Ambassadors for our spectacular state.”
The Mighty 5 Ambassador program
If participants visit all of the “Mighty 5” national parks in Utah before the beginning of 2014, they can earn the title of “Official Mighty 5 Ambassador for the State.” A signed certificate from the governor will be awarded to families who accomplish this and post pictures of their adventures on the Visit Utah Facebook page.
The state’s Mighty Five website includes suggested itineraries for various trips combining some or all of the parks.
The first 100 families who register to participate will receive the official Utah Office of Tourism 2014 scenic calendar, which is fresh off the press this week, and a Mighty 5 decal.
About Utah
Utah is home to: Five national parks, The Mighty Five; 43 state parks; seven national monuments; two national recreation areas; and “The Greatest Snow on Earth.” Utah represents the best of both the Rocky Mountains and the Desert Southwest. Whether it’s heart-thumping downhill skiing, picturesque fly fishing, gravity-defying rock climbing, serene bird watching, thrill-seeking white water rafting or just communing with nature, Utah has it all — holding true to the state’s “Life Elevated” brand.
Resources
Information and registration for the ambassador program: Mighty 5 website
Utah Office of Tourism: VisitUtah.com website | Telephone 800-200-1160.
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