The National Park Service recorded over 323 million recreation visits in 2025, including 13 million overnight stays. This represents a decrease of 8.85 million visits, or 2.7 percent, from the previous year's record-breaking numbers. Despite this decline, many parks still set new records for annual visitation. The impressive numbers are a testament to the enduring popularity of national parks as destinations for outdoor recreation and cultural exploration.
The 43-day partial government shutdown in October and November 2025 likely had an impact on the year's visitation numbers, with some sites forced to close partially or fully due to staff furloughs. This could have resulted in a decrease in overall visits, but it did not deter visitors from seeking out these natural wonders. The National Park Service's efforts to keep parks open and accessible during this period demonstrate their commitment to providing safe and enjoyable experiences for the public.
Twenty-six parks set a record for annual recreation visits, with many more experiencing significant increases in visitation. This trend suggests that national parks continue to be important destinations for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. The summer months saw peak visitation, indicating that visitors are drawn to these places during warmer weather.
The National Park Service's Comptroller, Jessica Bowron, attributes the continued popularity of national parks to their ability to provide unique experiences and connections with nature. She emphasizes the importance of keeping parks open, accessible, and well-managed to ensure visitor safety and enjoyment for generations to come.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park led all national parks in terms of visitation, with 11.5 million visitors in 2025. This is not surprising, given the park's natural beauty and diverse range of recreational activities. Zion National Park and Yellowstone National Park followed closely behind, with nearly five million and almost four million visitors, respectively.
The Blue Ridge Parkway experienced the highest visitation among all sites within the National Park System, with 16.5 million visitors in 2025. This scenic road through the Appalachian Highlands is a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Its popularity underscores the importance of preserving these natural areas for future generations.
For the first time, the Appalachian Trail was included in the National Park Service's Annual Park Ranking Report. The trail saw approximately six million visits in 2025, making it the ninth most visited national park last year. This recognition highlights the significance of this iconic footpath and its importance to millions of people.
The inclusion of the Appalachian Trail in the report marks a significant milestone in understanding visitor behavior and preferences. By analyzing aggregated mobile location data combined with trail counters and field observations, researchers can gain valuable insights into how visitors use the trail and where they are most likely to visit.
According to Cinda Waldbuesser, president and CEO of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the partnership between the ATC and the National Park Service has enabled them to better understand how people engage with the trail. This knowledge will inform strategies for supporting local communities and ensuring the long-term sustainability of this beloved destination.
Overall, the record-breaking visitation numbers at US national parks demonstrate the enduring appeal of these destinations for outdoor recreation and cultural exploration. As the National Park Service continues to work towards providing safe and enjoyable experiences for visitors, it is clear that these parks will remain an important part of American culture and identity.
The decline in recreation visits may signal a shift in how Americans engage with national parks, potentially favoring more remote and less crowded experiences.
