Discover the Most Visited National Parks in the United States
This summer, load up the minivan and take the family on an unforgettable adventure to a national park. These parks offer unique experiences and breathtaking views that will leave a long-lasting impression. Here are the top 15 most visited national parks in the United States, based on the statistics from 2019.
15. Shenandoah National Park
Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is known for its abundant water sources, including streams, creeks, and waterfalls. In 2019, the park received 1,425,000 recreational visits. Popular activities include bird watching, hiking, and camping.
14. Bryce Canyon National Park
Found in Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its colorful desert rock formations and natural amphitheaters, such as the iconic Bryce Amphitheater. In 2019, the park welcomed 2,594,000 visitors.
13. Joshua Tree National Park
Located in California, Joshua Tree National Park is known for its sharp, spiky Joshua trees. The park is popular among younger, bohemian types, and saw 2,988,000 recreational visits in 2019.
12. Indiana Dunes National Park
Situated between Gary, Indiana, and Michigan City, Indiana Dunes National Park offers hiking, biking, and trails through dunes, wetlands, and forests. In 2019, the park received 2,134,000 visitors.
11. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
This park, located between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio, is home to the Cuyahoga River and offers hiking trails, bike paths, and a scenic railroad. In 2019, Cuyahoga Valley National Park saw 2,237,000 recreational visitors.
10. Glacier National Park
Nestled in Montana’s Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park offers unparalleled scenery and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. The park saw 3,049,000 visitors in 2019.
9. Olympic National Park
Located in Washington State, Olympic National Park boasts a diverse landscape, including a rainforest, glacier-topped mountains, and a vast coastline. In 2019, the park received 3,245,000 visitors.
8. Grand Teton National Park
With its jagged, snow-capped peaks, Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming offers a picture-perfect landscape. In 2019, the park welcomed 3,400,000 visitors.
7. Acadia National Park
This park, found on Mount Desert Island in Maine, is known for its rugged coastlines and diverse wildlife. In 2019, Acadia National Park saw 3,437,000 visitors.
6. Yellowstone National Park
Encompassing parts of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, Yellowstone was the first national park in the world. Iconic features include Old Faithful Geyser, Mount Washburn, and Mammoth Hot Springs. In 2019, the park received 4,020,000 visitors.
5. Yosemite National Park
Located in California, Yosemite National Park is known for its granite cliffs, including Half Dome and El Capitan, as well as its giant sequoia groves and waterfalls. In 2019, the park saw 4,422,000 visitors.
4. Zion National Park
Utah’s first national park, Zion, is famous for its colorful sandstone cliffs. In 2019, the park welcomed 4,488,000 recreational visitors.
3. Rocky Mountain National Park
Home to some of the highest mountains in the continental United States, Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado offers an array of outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing. In 2019, the park saw 4,670,000 visitors.
2. Grand Canyon National Park
One of the most famous parks in the United States, the Grand Canyon, stretches across Arizona and is known for its immense size and awe-inspiring views. In 2019, the park received 5,974,000 visitors.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Spanning across North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with over 800 miles of trails and a diverse range of flora and fauna. In 2019, the park saw a staggering 12,547,000 visitors.
Explore the Beauty of America’s National Parks
With so many stunning locations to choose from, there’s no better time to explore the natural beauty of the United States’ national parks. Whether you’re seeking adventure on a hiking trail or simply want to take in breathtaking views, these parks offer a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. So pack your bags and hit the road – adventure awaits!