Park and Rec have closed the park following alarming crowds over the weekend.
As expected, outdoor public spaces were crowded at the weekend but the general feedback from local authorities was that health and safety guidelines were adhered to— at least for the most part. One exception, however, was Eaton Canyon.
Despite extensive planning for Memorial Day weekend—this includes increased monitors and enforcement on trails— The Los Angeles County Parks & Recreation were forced to close the park down after being flooded with people that weren’t following the guidelines.
UPDATE: #EatonCanyon Trails & Natural Areas remain closed thru May 31, due to overwhelming crowds not following #COVID19 public health requirements for face coverings & #PhysicalDistancing. Parking lots closed. Review guidelines for all #trails: https://t.co/E4fjfpxCD7 pic.twitter.com/IXpfFletNF
— Los Angeles County Parks & Recreation (@lacountyparks) May 26, 2020
The closure includes the Eaton Canyon natural areas, trails, trailhead, parking lot, nature center, and all gates. No walk-ins are allowed, according to their Facebook post.
The park announcement stated:
“Despite these best efforts by the County, the large number of visitors to Eaton Canyon this weekend have made it evident that many people are not practicing key requirements and recommendations set forth by Public Health and supported by LA County Parks such as wearing face coverings, physical distancing and avoiding crowded areas.”
Social media was filled with evidence of hikers crowding closely along the trail with @laterkater93 even predicting the closure after her Sunday hike stating in her Instagram comments that is was “Very crowded tho, I wouldn’t be surprised if that changed or they closed earlier.”
As mentioned repeatedly by health officials, the reopening situation is “fluid” with the health and safety of all citizens being the number one priority. To keep parks and outdoor spaces open the Parks and Rec department recommends following their guidelines which you can find here.