Zion National Park has implemented Stage 2 fire restrictions as the busy Memorial Day weekend begins on Friday.

The restrictions mean no open fires in the national park. Campfires or charcoal fires are prohibited in the Watchman Campground, South Campground or picnic areas. Smoking is only allowed within an enclosed vehicle, a developed recreation site or at least three feet away from vegetation. Fireworks, as always, are also prohibited.

“Dry conditions are increasing across the region, and these restrictions are intended to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires in Zion,” Jeff Bradybaugh, Zion National Park Superintendent, said in a statement. “Visitors can help protect the park, nearby communities and firefighters by following all fire restrictions during their visit.”

Campers at the Lava Point Campground may still have fires in established fire rings, and visitors may use cook stoves fueled with propane or petroleum.

Punishment for violating these restrictions may include fines up to $5,000 and imprisonment for up to six months, according to the park. Park visitors can learn more about the fire restrictions at utahfireinfo.gov, utahfiresense.org or by calling 435-772-7842.

Preparing for a busy weekend

Beyond fire restrictions, visitors to Zion this weekend should be prepared for large crowds, full parking lots, long shuttle bus lines, traffic and temporary closures at the park’s east and south entrances, the park service said in a statement on Thursday.

Memorial Day marks the start of Zion’s busy summer season, and last year the park saw over 95,000 visits during the holiday weekend.

The Zion Nature Center, located near the South Campground, opens on Friday and features interactive exhibits and ranger-led activities. The visitor center and Zion Human History Museum are also open.

For visitors who want to hike the iconic Narrows, the park recommends bringing proper equipment and checking the weather and flow rate of the Virgin River through the canyon. To hike Angels Landing, visitors must apply for a permit the day before and bring an ID.

The park expects parking lots to fill early each day and recommends visitors check the Utah Department of Transportation’s Zion Area Roads to Recreation website for updates and alternative parking options. The park’s website also has details on the shuttle system.

For travelers in southwest Utah who don’t plan to visit Zion, the park recommends using alternate routes around the area such as Utah State Route 20, Utah State Route 14 and US-89.