The scenic vistas of the parks are viewed by nearly two million visitors annually. The vistas, especially in the summer, are highly obscured by regional haze. Programs have demonstrated that visitors place a high importance on the pristine condition of national parks and that visitor enjoyment is adversely affected by air pollution. An automated camera located in Giant Forest documents visibility. Only a few days during the year are the San Joaquin Valley and coastal mountains visible.
Few visitors have the good fortune to experience such a spectacular view.
Kings Canyon National Parks is not unique. Similar problems exist in many other parts of the United States and throughout the world. An older car burning leaded gasoline may emit up to ten times more pollutants than a newer, unleaded model. By purchasing efficient automobiles, maintaining pollution control devices in good working condition, and limiting the use of our vehicles, this source of pollutants can be reduced. Car pools, mass transit, bicycling and walking are conscientious alternatives to the use of private vehicles.