America’s Most-Visited National Parks for 2016

As a brutal and difficult 2016 ends and the days of 2017 become a reality, we are taking one last look back at and celebrating an awesome year for America’s National Parks. In 2016, over 80 million people visited one of America’s 59 National Parks on the centennial of their creation. All across the country, millions of people explored America’s best idea, all looking to reconnect to someplace wild, beautiful and soul soothing. From the Smoky Mountains to the desserts of Joshua Tree and everywhere in between, the following areas encouraged and inspired future generations to connect and protect these beautiful destinations.

All year long, Americans were encouraged to get outside, #FindYourPark and explore the majesty and breathtaking vistas, trails and drives in our National Parks. While the popularity of the parks caused a few problems here and there, the vast majority of visitors took only pictures and left only with inspiring and warm memories from the great outdoors. The visitation numbers are encouraging, giving us hope that these lands will continue to be protected and enjoyed, no matter who is the President or your member of Congress. However, we must remain vigilant to ensure that these areas are protected for future generations, so contact your member of Congress and tell them to keep our public lands public and fully funded.

2016 was an amazing year to get outside and explore America’s National Parks. In the entire National Park System, 330,971,689 visited a park, historic site and protected Public Land. Hopefully, you were one of the millions who got out and experience them. Please keep in mind that the following list is the official number of visitors to the National Parks in 2016. Without any more of a delay, here are America’s Top 11 most-visited National Parks for 2016.