Jay, you hit on a good point that I’ve been meaning to make a post on. The purpose of the NPS isn’t completely for visitors “today”, rather:
The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations
There is a GNP podcast called Headwaters - it’s pretty good in spots. In one of the episodes they discuss the balance of present enjoyment with preservation for future generations. No strong opinion here beyond that is a tough job where everyone is a critic, but I have been disappointed with the process changes since Covid (ticketed entry on a shaky basis, Rec.gov FCFS for permits, etc).
Your second point is good as well and something I struggle with. Not fair to pass judgement on the reason or utilization of the visit - whether finishing the CDT or for Instagram pictures never leaving the parking lot- everyone should have equal opportunity.
My interactions with CDT’ers has generally been positive, although these are northbound ones, so the herd had been thinned and they were at the end of their journey.