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Reader Participation Day: Are You Avoiding National Parks This Year?

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Published Date

August 17, 2016

So, have the stories of tremendous crowds at some national parks this summer convinced you to put off your national park adventure until next year? Or have you merely shied away from the iconic parks like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Grand Canyon, and instead focused on smaller, less traveled units?

Some park staff think the rush to see the national parks will continue into next year and 2018. Of course, you could be strategic with your planning and avoid the busiest seasons, and their crowds, and still enjoy the parks.

So, how are you coping with the crowds?

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Comments

Submitted by Ted on August 24, 2016 - 10:32am.

Already went to Yellowstone & Gand Teton in late June. I was surprised that the crowds were less than I expected. This fall I am headed to the Utah parks and N. Arizona.


Submitted by Rick B. on August 24, 2016 - 12:45pm.

We will be staying close to home for budget reasons, but luckily home incluses exploring North Cascades Ntl Park, our new home.  Next spring will include Glacier and Yellowstone enroute to a nephew's graduation.


Submitted by outdoorsygirl on August 24, 2016 - 1:07pm.

I've adjusted my plans this year to avoid the frontcountry (except to pull permits!) and head straight into the backcountry. Total of 31 tent nights and 180 miles in three of my favorite parks this year, and (so far) no crowds, no tour busses - just humbling, awe-inspiring experiences. Our National Parks are incredible places.


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