This study explores issues related to the introduction of revenue management principles in the mechanism
of allocating permits to visitors. Specifically, the study looks at ways in which backcountry hikers
in Grand Canyon National Park, a World Heritage Site listed among America’s most visited tourism
attractions, value a particular allocation mechanism for a permit application. From a stratified random
sampling scheme with a 76% response rate, over 1400 overnight backcountry hikers reported the
potential for considerable increased revenues. At the same time the findings indicate that certain
demographics and user groups will not participate in the modifications, and thus, may be less likely to
get a permit when they apply for one. Any policy implementation from such an analysis needs to
consider the implications of privileging those who are both willing and able to pay more for access, and
effectively excluding others from the same opportunity