Tourism Slump Hits Utah's Mighty 5 Parks During Donald Trump's Second Term
What happened
Combined visitation to Utah's Mighty 5 national parks was down nearly 10% across July, August, and September compared to 2025. The slump, which affected Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Bryce Canyon most severely, is part of a nationwide trend during Donald Trump’s second term. Since early 2025, there has been a significant drop in visitors from countries including Canada and the U.K.
From kuer.org
Why it matters
The decline in foreign tourists is acutely hurting local businesses in Moab, as visitors from abroad tend to spend more. Operations managers noted that the 10% dip in visitors could equate to a 50% dip in money spent locally.
From kuer.org
Who's involved
- MoabThe city experiencing the tourism downturn in Utah.
- Donald TrumpHis second term is correlated with the nationwide tourism slump.
- UtahThe state where the affected national parks are located.
- National Park ServiceThe federal agency responsible for managing the national parks.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- Grand CountySpeculative
Grand County might see reduced local revenue and tax base due to the tourism slump.
- National Park ServiceSpeculative
The National Park Service could experience lower operational funding and revenue due to reduced visitation.
- UtahSpeculative
Utah may see decreased state tourism revenue due to reduced international travel.
- JeepSpeculative
Jeep could face reduced demand for adventure and outdoor products and services.
Keep exploring
The entities involved
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Moab
city in Grand County, Utah, United States
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Donald Trump
American businessman and politician (born 1946), President of the United States (2017–2021; since 2025)