Exploring America's Favorite National Parks: 2023 Visitor Data Revealed

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature? The U.S. National Park system is the perfect choice! In 2023, these natural gems attracted over 93.4 million visitors, a 4% increase from 2022. Let’s take a look at the most popular national parks that might inspire your next trip.

The Unstoppable Charm of Western Parks

Although the East and West coasts of the United States both boast stunning national parks, the parks in the West seem to be particularly popular. In 2023, eight out of the top ten most visited national parks were located in the western United States. This is no surprise, given the West’s magnificent landscapes and abundant opportunities for outdoor activities.

California leads with nine national parks, followed by Utah with five and Colorado with four, making them top travel destinations.

The Reigning Champion: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Straddling North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park topped the list with an astounding 13,297,647 visitors. Its popularity is not just due to its enchanting natural beauty but also its prime location—over half of the U.S. population can reach it with a day’s drive.

Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park came in second with 4,733,705 visitors, closely followed by Utah’s Zion National Park with 4,623,238 visitors.

An Eastern Gem: Acadia National Park

Standing out in this list is Acadia National Park in Maine, the only park located in the northeastern United States, ranking seventh with 3,879,890 visitors. Though relatively small in size, Acadia’s unique coastal landscapes and rich ecosystems draw a substantial number of visitors.

By the way, if you’re interested in the beauty of the U.S. West Coast, consider joining the “Bay Area Wonders” secret experience tour. In the spring of 2025, they will lead visitors to explore the unique charm of California’s Sacramento Delta, including a tour of the century-old Chinese town of Locke and enjoying the pear orchards’ beauty. This in-depth travel experience allows you not just to see the sights but also to deeply understand the local culture and history.

Register here 👉 2025 "Bay Area Wonders" Tour

The U.S. National Park system preserves some of the most breathtaking landscapes, from the misty mountains of the East to the expansive canyons of the West, each park with its unique allure. Whether you enjoy hiking, photography, or simply quietly appreciating the natural beauty, these parks can fulfill your desires.

The visitor data from 2023 shows that more and more people are choosing to connect with nature, seeking the rare tranquility that city life often lacks. So why not plan a national park trip and experience the charm of these natural wonders yourself? You’ll find that America’s national parks are not just conservation areas but sanctuaries that nourish the soul.