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America’s National Parks: A Growing Destination

Experience the wonders of America’s national parks, but be prepared for the crowds. Last year, these iconic parks received nearly 312 million recreational visits, according to the U.S. National Parks Service. That’s a significant increase from the 237 million visits in 2020, when the pandemic caused a temporary decline. In 2019, the number reached a staggering 327 million.

The popularity of these parks has led to overcrowding issues, prompting some parks to implement summer reservation systems. These measures aim to preserve the delicate ecosystems and prevent overuse. While Yosemite dropped its reservation program this year, at least seven of the nation’s 63 parks still require reservations in some form. Rocky Mountain National Park, Haleakala National Park, Acadia National Park, Glacier National Park, Arches National Park, Shenandoah National Park, and Olympic National Park are among those that maintain reservation systems.

The Wall Street Journal highlighted the overcrowding problem in a feature two years ago, titled “National Parks are Overcrowded and Closing Their Gates.” When parks reach capacity, officials have to close entrances, leaving disappointed visitors searching for alternative destinations.

Once inside the parks, tourists often find a far different experience than they anticipated. The Journal noted that popular attractions like Delicate Arch can be crowded with Disneyland-caliber crowds. Locals are increasingly frustrated as well, with incidents of graffiti and human waste appearing in camping areas far from proper facilities and law enforcement.

Even driving through the parks can be a challenge, with traffic jams becoming common occurrences. Yellowstone, for example, experiences long lines of cars waiting to catch a glimpse of wildlife. Despite the vast size of the park, most visitors tend to stay within a half-mile of the main roads and parking areas.

If you’re looking for a more peaceful outdoor experience, consider exploring the national forests. With 154 national forests offering over 158,000 miles of trails, these areas provide ample opportunities for solitude without the crowds. National forests have fewer regulations but still offer camping options and scenic byways. Many national forests are located near the overcrowded parks, providing similar views and scenery.

Additionally, the U.S. Forest Service manages 20 national grasslands, covering nearly 4 million acres, and there are approximately 2,500 state parks open to the public. These alternative destinations offer hidden gems and fewer crowds.

Before planning your next outdoor adventure, do some research to discover these lesser-known treasures. The Wall Street Journal published a helpful guide last summer for exploring public lands without the crowds. You can also use the Alltrails app, which provides downloadable trail maps and real-time location tracking. It even suggests local trails if a major road trip is not feasible.

America’s national parks are undoubtedly remarkable, but they are not the only option for outdoor recreation. Explore the diverse landscapes of national forests, grasslands, and state parks for a unique and less crowded experience.