The National Park Service has released its annual visitor numbers for 2025, presenting the most frequented national parks and the less-touristy destinations that draw the least people. With vacationers still on the hunt for adventure, picturesque views, and outdoor activities, national parks remain a favorite choice for millions. Have a glance at the top and bottom-ranked national parks for this year.
Most Visited National Parks in 2025
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina)
The Great Smoky Mountains continue to hold the top position as the most visited national park in the country, with over 13 million visitors in 2025. With the phenomenal vistas from the mountains, excellent fall foliage, and admission price being free, it should be no surprise that this park is number one.
- Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
One of the globe’s best-known natural sights, the Grand Canyon, welcomed over 6 million tourists in 2025. Its gigantic, awe-inspiring scenery and trekking routes are a dream for many.
- Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)
Featuring geysers, animals, and diverse ecosystems, Yellowstone welcomed nearly 5 million this year. Famous for Old Faithful and hot springs, the park is a favorite of nature enthusiasts.
- Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
With its towering peaks, alpine lakes, and easy access from Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park welcomed about 4.5 million visitors in 2025. The scenic Trail Ridge Road and Bear Lake trails are among the most popular.
- Zion National Park (Utah)
Utah’s busiest park attracted over 4.3 million visitors, thanks to its stunning red cliffs, slot canyons, and well-known trails like Angels Landing.
- Yosemite National Park (California)
One of America’s most beautiful parks, Yosemite, hosted around 4.2 million visitors, with El Capitan and Half Dome remaining its top attractions.
- Acadia National Park (Maine)
Acadia remains a draw for tourists to the Northeast, with 3.9 million in 2025. Picturesque ocean views, Cadillac Mountain, and fall color maintain its popularity.
- Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
Yellowstone’s neighbor, Grand Teton, drew 3.7 million visitors to its rugged mountains, hiking, and wildlife.
- Glacier National Park (Montana)
Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier drew 3.2 million visitors to its Going-to-the-Sun Road and spectacular alpine scenery.
- Joshua Tree National Park (California)
Famous for its desert and rock formations, Joshua Tree drew 3 million visitors, who were drawn by its popularity as a camp site and climbing location.
Least Visited National Parks of 2025
- Gates of the Arctic National Park (Alaska) – Fewer than 10,000 visitors
- Kobuk Valley National Park (Alaska) – Approximately 15,000 visitors
- Lake Clark National Park (Alaska) – Approximately 17,000 visitors
- Isle Royale National Park (Michigan) – Fewer than 25,000 visitors
- National Park of American Samoa – Fewer than 30,000 visitors
- North Cascades National Park (Washington) – Approximately 35,000 visitors
- Dry Tortugas National Park (Florida) – 45,000 visitors
- Great Basin National Park (Nevada) – 55,000 visitors
- Pinnacles National Park (California) – 80,000 visitors
- Congaree National Park (South Carolina) – 85,000 visitors
The remotest national parks are usually inaccessible, difficult to reach, or require special travel. But they boast some of the least touched and most characteristic landscapes in America.
No matter whether you look for a populated, iconic park like the Grand Canyon or a secluded sanctuary like Gates of the Arctic, there is something within the U.S. national park system for everybody. As traveling habits continue to shift, these rankings illustrate the ongoing popularity of nature and adventure among millions of visitors each year.
