Statistics About The Most Dangerous National Park

In this post, we will explore a compilation of chilling statistics revealing the risks and dangers present in various national parks across the United States. From the alarming number of search and rescue operations to the deadliest activities and common causes of death, these data paint a stark picture of the hazards that visitors and park personnel may encounter. Let’s delve into the numbers and unveil the most treacherous aspects of some of America’s beloved natural wonders.

Statistic 1

"From 2010 to 2019, North Cascades National Park saw 652 search and rescue (SAR) operations, source: National Park Service."

Statistic 2

"The most dangerous National Park according to the number of deaths that occurred between 2007-2018 is Lake Mead National Recreational Area with 254 deaths."

Statistic 3

"Yosemite National Park had 126 fatalities between 2007 and 2018."

Statistic 4

"Between 2010 and 2020, the Grand Canyon National Park had around 2.6 SAR incidents per 10,000 visitors."

Statistic 5

"Across all US national parks from 2007 to 2018, the most common cause of death was drownings (365 cases)."

Statistic 6

"Six times more men died in National Parks between 2007-2018 than women."

Statistic 7

"Rocky Mountain National Park had 38 fatal falls between 2007-2018."

Statistic 8

"Grand Teton National Park is the location with the highest number of bear-inflicted human injuries, with 73 cases between 1970-2014."

Statistic 9

"In 2018 alone, there were around 17 SAR incidents at Denali National Park."

Statistic 10

"There were 92 fatalities in the Smoky Mountain National Park between 2007 and 2018."

Statistic 11

"Between 1872 and 2011, Yellowstone National Park had a record of 7,789 bear-related incidents."

Statistic 12

"As per a 10-year study, Sequoia National Park has a fatality rate of 49.5 per 10 million visitors."

Statistic 13

"With 50 SAR operations in 2020, and for its size, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve ranks high among the most dangerous parks."

Statistic 14

"The deadliest activity in National Parks is swimming, which led to 1,578 deaths between 2007 and 2018."

Statistic 15

"From 2007 to 2018, an average of 160 people died each year in National Parks."

Statistic 16

"Of all SAR incidents at Joshua Tree National Park from 2014 to 2016, 38% were for lost individuals."

Statistic 17

"Mt. Rainier National Park has an average of 2-3 deaths per year due to mountaineering accidents."

Statistic 18

"Yellowstone National Park spent the most on SAR operations in 2014, with a figure around $674 thousand."

National parks in the United States present a variety of risks to visitors, as evidenced by the numerous search and rescue operations, fatalities, and injuries recorded in recent years. Lake Mead National Recreational Area and Yosemite National Park stand out for their high numbers of deaths, while drownings emerge as the leading cause of fatalities across all parks. Men appear to face a significantly higher risk of death than women in national park settings. The statistics also highlight specific risks associated with activities such as swimming, mountaineering, and encounters with wildlife, underscoring the importance of safety awareness and preparedness for those exploring these beautiful but potentially hazardous environments.