Fun, excitement, recreation, and idleness – these are the emotions one typically associates with a day out in a park. Death by drowning or being in a car crash isn’t something one would think of while heading to a park. However, many parks in America have gained notoriety all over for high number of casualties. While many avoid these national parks for the dangers they pose, there are a significant few who get their adrenaline rushing at the prospect of visiting some of the most dangerous national parks in America. There are many American visa online service companies that offer tour packages to national parks, but if you are on a budget, we recommend scouting the destinations on your own!
If the thought of spending a lazy day at a family park bores you, visiting these famous yet dangerous national parks can make you feel better! Dive in to know more.
- Rovers Run Trail, Anchorage, Alaska, AK 99507
Rovers Run Trail can bring you up, close, and personal with bears that are looking for salmon near the Campbell Creek. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game warned recreationists to be extra careful in Campbell Creek. There have been frequent reports of mauling, but more often than not, it has got to do with not respecting the warning signs. Most of the incidents in Rovers Run have been related to bear attacks. If you are visiting Alaska and are particularly fond of enjoying in a bit of danger, the Rovers Run Trail can be the right destination for you.
Safety Tips
- Read the warning signs carefully
- If you encounter a bear, don’t make eye contact and lie face down
2. Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Nevada
Lake Mead National Recreation Area is one of the most frequented parks in the U.S. There are a number of recreational activities you can engage in, such as biking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, and boating. While the park offers a range of activities, it is also notorious for being a center of mishaps.
Most of the mishaps in the park are related to drowning in Lake Mead, but there have also been reports of motorcycle accidents and homicides. The park was named as America’s deadliest national park by outside, a popular outdoor publication.
Safety Tips
- Use wood and charcoal fires in grills at shorelines that are 100 feet from vegetation.
- In case of heavy rains, find a sheltered cove or shore
- Always wear a life jacket while swimming
3. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park in California receives heavy footfalls all throughout the year. It is estimated that over 4 million people visit the park every year, and this includes both locals and international tourists. Some of the most interesting activities in Yosemite National Park include hiking, climbing, rafting, and camping. Key tourist attractions in Yosemite National Park are Half Dome, Glacier Point, Yosemite Valley, Tunnel View, and Mariposa Grove. While the park is a point of attraction for tourists visiting California, it has also been in the news for mishaps and casualties.
Accidental drowning, vehicle accidents, and falls remain the key causes of fatalities and injury at Yosemite National Park. However, most of the accidents at the park are on account of carelessness and lack of experience. If you are looking to spend some time at one of the world’s most dangerous national parks, Yosemite National Park can be an appealing option.
Safety tips:
- Have printed copies of maps as GPS and other cell services may be available intermittently
- When visiting in winters (October – April), carry snow chains with you. Having snow chains is mandatory
- Avoid leaving any food or strong perfume inside your vehicle as it can catch the attention of bears
4. Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska
Denali National Park and Preserve is one of the most well-known retreat center in Alaska. Encompassing 6 million acres of Alaska’s interior wilderness, Denali National Park and Preserve offers a host of activities and sights to visitors. Some of the best things to do when visiting Denali National Park and Preserve are sightseeing, hiking, kayaking and rafting, mountain biking, and mountaineering.
While the park offers interesting activities and sightseeing, intermittent casualties and accidents have meant that the park has got some bad press in the past. Denali is the highest mountain peak in North America, and also the center for most mishaps. Climbing falls are one of the main reasons for injuries to visitors at Denali National Park and Preserve. As is the case with other national parks, mishaps can be prevented by following park guidelines and adjusting to the sudden changes in weather.
Safety tips
- Do not approach the wildlife intentionally
- Avoid contact with plants as some are known to cause allergies
- Carry rain gear at all times and wear woolen clothes
- Always hike in a group; at least have one companion with you
5. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park offers a range of beautiful sights and interesting activities to visitors. When visiting the South Rim, you can stop by the visitor center or know more about the canyon at one of the museums. Rim Trail and Hermit Road are crowd favorites, while Trail of Time and Scenic Desert View Drive remain other popular options. However, the vast diversity and opulence of this park also brings with the risk of injury and mishaps.
Injuries resulting from climbing falls and cardiac falls are the major causes of fatalities at Grand Canyon National Park. Not everyone visits the national park for sightseeing and adventure, as it has gained notoriety for being a suicide point.
Safety tips
- Lightning remains a threat during summer months, so find a place of safety during thunderstorms
- Stay hydrated and take your time while hiking and climbing
- Maintain a safe distance from wildlife
These were the five most dangerous places in America. While visiting these places can be fun and exciting, it is also important that you follow safety recommendations and take care of yourself and loved ones.
PIN IT FOR LATERAuthor Bio:
Priya Ghatol is an avid travel writer who specializes in adventurous travel writing. Her blogs and articles give deep insight about various tourist places and act as a perfect travel guide for someone who is traveling to a place for the first time. Priya has exemplary research, writing, and editing skills which make her easily match the reader’s intellect and interest. She has blogged extensively about her travel experience while traveling to several places like Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Europe, Dubai, USA, Canada, etc.