14 DAY TRIAL // Recent news from the US says that several hiking spots found in the country's Joshua Tree National Park are now off limits to the general public, all because of a group of vandals who saw fit to spray graffiti in 17 different locations spread across said park.
“Since January, individuals have defaced the day-use and canyon area of Rattlesnake Canyon with graffiti,” reads the official website for the National Park Service.
Furthermore, “While this started as a few markings, social media posts appear to have sparked numerous individuals' interest in adding to the vandalism of this scenic canyon. The continued malicious desecration of Joshua Tree National Park has now affected archaeological sites.” The Examiner informs us that both famous rock formations and Native American sites of a significant historic importance have been affected by these acts of vandalism.
The Rattlesnake Canyon is expected to remain closed to the general public until April 30. During this time, the park's staff and volunteers are to try to scrub off the graffiti.
By the looks of it, the Barker dam was also made off limits because of acts of vandalism.
“Joshua Tree National Park reminds visitors that we appreciate your assistance in watching for and reporting acts of vandalism or suspicious activity to park personnel,” the National Park Service wished to emphasize.