In August 2023, Yellowstone National Park visitation totaled 846,389 recreational visitors, marking a 45% increase from August 2022, when it had 582,211 visitors. Compared to August 2019, which had 820,006 visitors, there was a 3% increase.
In total for 2023, the park has hosted 3,313,244 recreational visits. This represents a 36% increase from 2022, when it had 2,437,607 visits, and a 6% increase from 2019, when it recorded 3,114,697 visits.
Here’s a breakdown of the 2023 year-to-date Yellowstone visitation trends, including other trends over the past few years, up to August:
- 2023 – 3,313,244
- 2022 – 2,437,607 (Note: The park was closed from June 13 to June 21, with three entrances reopening on June 22.)
- 2021 – 3,590,609
- 2020 – 2,556,528 (Note: The park was closed from May 1 to May 17, with two entrances reopening on May 18 and the remaining three on June 1.)
- 2019 – 3,114,697
- 2018 – 3,136,241
For more detailed information about park visitation and how these numbers are calculated, you can refer to the NPS Stats website.
Please note that the comparison is made with 2019 visitation as it was pre-COVID, and the subsequent years until 2023 saw unusual visitation trends due to COVID (2020, 2021) and a historic flood event in 2022, which led to the park’s closure for approximately two weeks in June.
This above news story is based on a press release from the National Park Service, which was issued on September 14, 2023. You can read the original release here.
Yellowstone National Park, WY
Yellowstone National Park is a true natural wonder. Located primarily in Wyoming but also extending into Montana and Idaho, this iconic park covers over 2.2 million acres of pristine wilderness. As you venture into its wild landscapes, you’ll encounter geothermal wonders like Old Faithful, towering waterfalls such as Lower Falls, and the magnificent Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River.
Yellowstone is renowned for its vibrant geysers, bubbling hot springs, and boiling mud pots, creating a surreal and unique experience. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the park’s captivating wildlife, including bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves, as they roam freely in their natural habitat.
Hiking trails of various difficulties beckon you to explore the park’s wilderness, whether you’re a novice or an experienced hiker. As you walk these paths, you’ll find pristine lakes, dense forests, and sweeping meadows, all framed by the dramatic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
Yellowstone is a place of both serenity and excitement, offering you the chance to witness nature’s raw beauty and power. So, gear up and embark on an unforgettable journey through this remarkable national treasure.
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Feature image: nps.gov