Mountains are a common feature in many national and state parks, and provide important habitats for a wide range of plants and animals, as well as opportunities for recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and skiing. The National Park Service (NPS) and state park agencies have a mission to preserve, protect, and interpret these natural resources.
Many national and state parks have designated wilderness areas within ranges, where human activities such as motorized use and development are not allowed to protect the delicate ecosystem and natural resources. These areas provide important habitat for a wide range of plants and animals, many of which are found only in these high-elevation environments.
Mountains in national and state parks also provide opportunities for recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and skiing. Many parks have designated trails and campgrounds for these activities, and may also offer ranger-led hikes and educational programs.
The NPS and state park agencies also consider the potential impacts of climate change on mountain ecosystems when managing park resources. The effects of climate change such as rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns can have significant impacts on mountain ecosystems and the plants and animals that depend on them.
Overall, mountains in national and state parks play an important role in maintaining biodiversity, providing recreational opportunities, and influencing regional weather patterns and water cycle. They are also an important source of drinking and irrigation water for local communities. The NPS and state park agencies have a mission to preserve, protect, and interpret these resources, and have regulations in place to protect these resources from overuse and other forms of damage, while balancing the need for recreational opportunities.
