Visitors have continued to increase at national parks in the U.S., and a new report has measured just how much. In 2016 there was an eight percent increase in visitors compared to 2015.
The most popular parks this past year included the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and George Washington Memorial Parkway.
US Department of the Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke released the following statement.
“Our National Parks are our national treasures, and it’s important to recognize that they are more than just beautiful landscapes. Growing up near Glacier National Park, I understand the value these places bring to local economies and in preserving our heritage. As we enter into a second century of service and visitation numbers continue to increase, we will focus on maintenance backlogs and ensuring these special places are preserved for future generations.”
