Party’s over at Guffey Gorge

In response to many issues raised by neighbors in Park County, new rules to limit partying will be imposed at Guffey Gorge, also called Paradise Cove.

The Bureau of Land Management announced the supplementary rules will take effect Jan. 19, which include no drinking alcoholic beverages, no amplified music, and no unleashed animals. Visitors will also no longer be able to park outside of designated parking areas.

BLM said in a news release that increased visitation has caused concerns for public safety and natural resources.

KRDO reported last year that the Park County destination began attracting hundreds of people a day, resulting in tension between those who want to experience the beauty of the area and the visitors who just want to party.

(VIDEO -> Paradise Lost? )

Locals said they were discouraged from the area due to an increase in drinking and drug use. Some visitors had also taken to cliff diving at the swimming hole, resulting in many severe injuries.

BLM says the new rules came as part of a 2015 Guffey Gorge Management Plan. The goal, BLM says, is to reduce conflict among visitors and impact to natural resources while increasing safety.