Discovering the Top 5 Most Visited National Parks in the United States

Discovering the Top 5 Most Visited National Parks in the United States

If you're an outdoor enthusiast or someone who cherishes the beauty of nature, visiting the national parks in the United States is an adventure you must experience. Each park offers a unique blend of natural wonders, wildlife, and recreational activities that attract millions of visitors each year. In this guide, we'll explore the top five most visited national parks in the U.S., detailing their attractions, wildlife, recommended gear, and more. Plus, we'll introduce you to a perfect memento for each park from Ollie Print's exclusive U.S. National Parks Tee collection.

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    Average Visitors per Year: Over 12 million

Best Things to See:
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is renowned for its mist-covered mountains, diverse plant life, and historical Appalachian culture. Key attractions include Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park, Cades Cove, a lush valley offering a glimpse into early settler life, and the breathtaking Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Wildlife and Vegetation:
The park is a haven for biodiversity, home to over 19,000 documented species. Look out for black bears, white-tailed deer, and elk, as well as a variety of birds and amphibians. The flora is equally impressive, with vast forests of deciduous trees, colorful wildflowers, and unique plant species like the Fraser fir.

Recommended Gear:
Bring sturdy hiking boots, rain gear (it can be misty and wet), a good camera, and binoculars for wildlife spotting.

Entrance Fees:
Free

Camping and Lodging:
Camping is allowed with several campgrounds and backcountry sites available. For those preferring a bit more comfort, nearby towns like Gatlinburg and Cherokee offer plenty of lodging options.

Activities:
Hiking, wildlife viewing, auto touring, fishing, and horseback riding.

Safety Tips:
Stay on marked trails, keep a safe distance from wildlife, and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.

Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall for mild weather and beautiful foliage.

Recommended Product:


Celebrate your visit with this stylish Smoky Mountains National Park Tee from Ollie Print, perfect for any nature lover. 

2. Grand Canyon National Park

       Average Visitors per Year: Approximately 6 million

Best Things to See:
The Grand Canyon, located in Arizona, is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. The South Rim offers the most iconic views, including Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station. For a more rugged experience, venture to the North Rim or take a hike down the Bright Angel Trail.

Wildlife and Vegetation:
Expect to see mule deer, bighorn sheep, and California condors. The plant life ranges from desert scrub at the canyon’s bottom to dense pine forests along the rims.

Recommended Gear:
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and a good pair of hiking boots. A map and compass are also essential for longer treks.

Entrance Fees:
$35 per vehicle

Camping and Lodging:
The park offers numerous campgrounds and backcountry camping permits. Lodging is available within the park and in nearby Tusayan.

Activities:
Hiking, mule rides, rafting, and scenic drives.

Safety Tips:
Stay hydrated, be aware of your limits, and be cautious near the edges of the canyon.

Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Recommended Product:


Capture the grandeur of the Grand Canyon with this exclusive Grand Canyon National Park from Ollie Print.

3. Zion National Park

      Average Visitors per Year: Over 4 million

Best Things to See:
Zion National Park in Utah is known for its stunning red rock formations and deep canyons. Highlights include Angels Landing, The Narrows, and the Emerald Pools.

Wildlife and Vegetation:
Look for bighorn sheep, mule deer, and a variety of birds. Vegetation includes cottonwood trees, juniper, and a variety of desert plants.

Recommended Gear:
Sturdy shoes for hiking, a hydration pack, and quick-dry clothing. A waterproof bag for hiking The Narrows is also recommended.

Entrance Fees:
$35 per vehicle

Camping and Lodging:
Several campgrounds are available within the park. Nearby Springdale offers a range of lodging options.

Activities:
Hiking, canyoneering, rock climbing, and bird watching.

Safety Tips:
Be prepared for heat, stay on marked trails, and be aware of flash flood risks.

Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall for pleasant weather and vibrant colors.

Recommended Product:


Embrace the spirit of Zion with this beautiful tee from Ollie Print, featuring unique artwork of the beautiful landscape!

4. Yellowstone National Park

       Average Visitors per Year: Approximately 4 million

Best Things to See:
Yellowstone, spanning Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, is famous for its geothermal features like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. Other must-see sites include Yellowstone Lake and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

Wildlife and Vegetation:
Home to bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves, Yellowstone boasts a rich array of wildlife. Vegetation ranges from sagebrush flats to dense forests of lodgepole pine.

Recommended Gear:
Bear spray, binoculars, a camera, and layers of clothing to adapt to varying temperatures.

Entrance Fees:
$35 per vehicle

Camping and Lodging:
Numerous campgrounds and lodges within the park. Nearby towns like West Yellowstone offer additional lodging.

Activities:
Wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, and geothermal feature tours.

Safety Tips:
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, stay on boardwalks in geothermal areas, and be prepared for sudden weather changes.

Best Time to Visit:
Late spring to early fall for the best weather and open facilities.

Recommended Product:


Yellowstone National Park Tee - Celebrate the wonders of Yellowstone with this unique Yellowstone National Park Tee from Ollie Print.

5. Yosemite National Park

       Average Visitors per Year: Approximately 4 million

Best Things to See:
Located in California, Yosemite is known for its giant sequoias, towering cliffs, and stunning waterfalls. Iconic spots include Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, Half Dome, and Glacier Point.

Wildlife and Vegetation:
The park is home to black bears, mule deer, and a wide variety of birds. Vegetation includes the majestic giant sequoias, oak woodlands, and alpine meadows.

Recommended Gear:
Hiking boots, a good camera, and layers for varying temperatures. Bring a climbing kit if you plan to tackle the cliffs.

Entrance Fees:
$35 per vehicle

Camping and Lodging:
Numerous campgrounds and lodges are available within the park. Nearby towns like Mariposa offer additional accommodations.

Activities:
Hiking, rock climbing, sightseeing, and photography.

Safety Tips:
Be prepared for altitude changes, respect wildlife, and stay hydrated.

Best Time to Visit:
Spring for waterfalls and wildflowers, and fall for fewer crowds and beautiful foliage.

Recommended Product:


Honor the grandeur of Yosemite with this fantastic Yosemite National Park Artwork Tee from Ollie Print.

Final Thoughts

Each of these national parks offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing the incredible natural beauty and diversity of the United States. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking to escape into nature, these parks provide endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Remember to pick up your exclusive national park tee from Ollie Print Designs as a stylish reminder of your epic journey. Happy exploring!