Joshua Tree National Park set a record for annual visitation in 2016. More than 2.5 million people visited Joshua Tree National Park in 2016, and 2017 appears to be on track to have even more visitors. March 2017 saw a record high of 404,545 visitors, most likely due to this year’s abundant spring bloom. So far in the first quarter of 2017, total park visitation is up 27 percent from 2016.
Superintendent David Smith said the park service is working hard to deal with congestion in the park. “The park is reconfiguring entrance stations, assigning rangers at trailheads and parking areas and constructing a new visitor center at Cottonwood Springs. We are also launching a new shuttle service in the park which will start in October and we hope will reduce traffic and parking issues.” Smith reminds visitors to obey speed limits, park only in designated areas, and that dogs are not allowed on hiking trails.
JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK ATTENDANCE UP 27%, ON TRACK FOR ANOTHER RECORD
