The proposal would see the cost of climbing Rainer rise from $30 to $50, while Denali would go from $200 up to $500, an increase of 250%. The proposal says that the increase in costs will go directly to training more climbing rangers and other ways of keeping people safe on the mountain. It also hints that future price increases could be linked to the U.S. Consumer Price Index.
The Access Fund, American Alpine Club and American Alpine Guides Association call the rate increases "unnecessary and unfair" and joined forces to draft a letter to protest the move which they think will limit the ability of many climbers to actually scale those mountains. They also accuse officials of planning to put the fee hikes into effect without allowing the public to comment, something the Park Service denies.
While these fees are not a foregone conclusion at this point, it does look like they are most likely coming sooner than later. I'm a bit torn on my thoughts on these fee hikes. On the one hand, in the greater scheme of things, these aren't big jumps. A $20 increase for going up Rainier probably won't make or break it for most climbers, although $300 more on Denali is a bit of a hit. But considering the expense of that climb, and the challenges involved, it isn't likely to be a deal breaker for those mountaineers either. Also, the fees seem to be intended for a good use as well, as making the climbs safer is always a good plan.
On the other hand, fee increases in this economic climate seem like a bad move. Politically it sends a bad message, and when people are struggling to make ends meet, any rise in cost can be seen as bad.
So, what are your thoughts? Is this an acceptable move or bad timing?
