You are here

Grand Canyon National Park Celebrates 6 Millionth Visitor Of 2016

Share

Published Date

December 14, 2016

Grand Canyon Superintendent Chris Lenhartz welcomed the Johnsons to the park/NPS, Michael Quinn

A family from Nevada had the distinction of including the 6 millionth visitor to Grand Canyon National Park this year.

The Johnson family, from Las Vegas, arrived Monday and were delighted to be part of the National Park Service's centennial celebration. James and Abigail Johnson and their kids Sophia, 10, and Elijah, 6, were first-time visitors to Grand Canyon National Park.

“At first, I didn’t think it was real,” exclaimed Sophia, “but I’m really happy we’re the 6 millionth!”

The Johnsons were greeted at the South Entrance Station and led to park headquarters, where Superintendent Chris Lehnertz, park staff, and community members welcomed them and presented them with gifts from the Grand Canyon Association, Xanterra, Tusayan Chamber of Commerce and Bright Angel Bikes.

Almost all Grand Canyon visitors are greeted by visitor-use-assistant staff at South Rim, Desert View and North Rim entrance stations, who on any given day may greet between 1,000 and 2,000 visitors. 

The 6 millionth visitor signifies a landmark for Grand Canyon National Park, which has seen a steady increase in visitation since 2011. This year alone, visitation has increased by 8.6 percent with help from national campaigns like Find Your Park, a social media public campaign to raise awareness of the NPS centennial. Since its establishment in 1919, Grand Canyon National Park has received more than 200 million visitors.

Related Stories:

Support National Parks Traveler

Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.

 

EIN: 26-2378789

Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

  • Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
  • Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
  • Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
  • North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
  • Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
  • Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
  • Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

Donate Popup

The National Parks Traveler keeps you informed on how politics impact national parks and protected areas.

Support Our Mission

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.