A recent video uploaded to Reddit provides a detailed analysis of the fluctuations in visitor numbers at U.S. National Parks over the past five decades, spanning from 1971 to 2022. It particularly highlights the Great Smoky Mountains National Park as the most frequented site, drawing attention to its accessibility due to a nearby highway that not only facilitates visits but also transit through the park. This ease of access significantly contributes to its high visitor count.
The video also delves into other prominent national parks that consistently attract large numbers of tourists. The Grand Canyon, known for its breathtaking vistas and geological significance, competes closely with Zion National Park, which offers stunning sandstone cliffs and a variety of challenging hikes. Rocky Mountain National Park is celebrated for its majestic peaks and diverse ecosystems, while Yosemite is famed for its giant sequoias and dramatic waterfalls. Yellowstone, the first national park in the U.S. and the world, is renowned for its geothermal features and abundant wildlife.
Note: Its interesting to see the Acadia had a huge surage in park visits in the 1980’s which then fell off dramatically in the 1990’s.
Throughout the decades, as depicted in the video, there has been a noticeable rise in the popularity of these parks. This trend is partly attributed to the growing U.S. population and a more profound national appreciation for the natural and cultural heritage preserved within these parks. This evolving public sentiment reflects a broader embrace of what is often referred to as America’s best idea: the national park system.
The video was provided by databayou.com and posted to REDDIT under the hiking sub REDDIT.
