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The National Park System is considered America’s best idea for a
reason. Ever since August 25, 1916,when Congress approved the National
Park Service Act, Americans have visited, camped, and hiked in our
nation’s most loved lands.
“It is gratifying to see more people
than ever coming to their national parks to enjoy nature, learn about
history, and spend time with their families,” said National Park Service
Director Jonathan B. Jarvis in a statement.
The official number
of recreational visits to national parks in 2014 was 292,800,082, which
is an increase of 19 million, or seven percent, from 2013 visitation of
273,630,895. The most popular parks seem to remain steady over the years
even if they switch places from year to year on the top ten list.
Here are the top 10 most visited national parks by number of visitors.
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee 10,099,276 annual visitors
“Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
World renowned for its diversity of plant and
animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its
remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, this is America's
most visited national park.”
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona 4,756,771 annual visitors
“Unique
combinations of geologic color and erosional forms decorate a canyon
that is 277 river miles (446km) long, up to 18 miles (29km) wide, and a
mile (1.6km) deep. Grand Canyon overwhelms our senses through its
immense size.”
Yosemite National Park, California 3,882,642 annual visitors
“Not
just a great valley, but a shrine to human foresight, the strength of
granite, the power of glaciers, the persistence of life, and the
tranquility of the High Sierra. First protected in 1864, Yosemite
National Park is best known for its waterfalls, but within its nearly
1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient
giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, and much more.”
Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming 3,513,484 annual visitors
“It's
a Wonderland. Old Faithful and the majority of the world's geysers are
preserved here. They are the main reason the park was established in
1872 as America's first national park—an idea that spread worldwide. A
mountain wildland, home to grizzly bears, wolves, and herds of bison and
elk, the park is the core of one of the last, nearly intact, natural
ecosystems in the Earth’s temperate zone.”
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Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado 3,434,751 annual visitors
“Rocky
Mountain National Park’s 415 square miles encompass and protect
spectacular mountain environments. Enjoy Trail Ridge Road – which crests
over 12,000 feet including many overlooks to experience the subalpine
and alpine worlds – along with over 300 miles of hiking trails,
wildflowers, wildlife, starry nights, and fun times. In a world of
superlatives, Rocky is on top!"
Olympic National Park, Washington 3,243,872 annual visitors
“With
nearly one million acres, Olympic encompasses several distinctly
different ecosystems and protects a rich mosaic of natural and cultural
history. Untamed rivers flow from glacier-capped peaks through valleys
of old-growth forests, waves crash against a shoreline rich with life,
and only trails traverse the vast interior of this internationally
recognized wilderness.”
Zion National Park, Utah 3,189,696 annual visitors
“Follow
the paths where ancient native people and pioneers walked. Gaze up at
massive sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that soar into a
brilliant blue sky. Experience wilderness in a narrow slot canyon.
Zion’s unique array of plants and animals will enchant you as you absorb
the rich history of the past and enjoy the excitement of present day
adventures.”
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming 2,791,392 annual visitors
“Rising
above a scene rich with extraordinary wildlife, pristine lakes, and
alpine terrain, the Teton Range stands monument to the people who fought
to protect it. These are mountains of the imagination. Mountains that
led to the creation of Grand Teton National Park where you can explore
over two hundred miles of trails, float the Snake River or enjoy the
serenity of this remarkable place.”
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Acadia National Park, Maine 2,563,129 annual visitors
“People
have been drawn to the rugged coast of Maine throughout history. Awed
by its beauty and diversity, early 20th-century visionaries donated the
land that became Acadia National Park. The park is home to many plants
and animals, and the tallest mountain on the U.S. Atlantic coast. Today
visitors come to Acadia to hike granite peaks, bike historic carriage
roads, or relax and enjoy the scenery.”
Glacier National Park, Montana 2,338,528 annual visitors
“Come
and experience Glacier's pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged
mountains, and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier
is a hiker's paradise for adventurous visitors seeking wilderness and
solitude. Relive the days of old through historic chalets, lodges,
transportation, and stories of Native Americans. Explore Glacier
National Park and discover what awaits you.”
