10 most visited national parks 10 most visited national parks In 2010, more than 281 million people visited America's 58 national parks, according to the National Park Service. To celebrate National Park Week, scroll through our slideshow highlighting the natural beauty preserved within the 10 most visited parks -- as well as the hidden gems that draw the fewest visitors. Great Smoky Mountains National Park No. 1 most visited: 9.46 million people | Formed: June 15, 1934 Location: State 1 | State 2 | Nearest city An isolated valley and hiking are the main attractions at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which spans two states. The park, which is part of an impressive mountain range covers more than 520,000 acres , Grand Canyon National Park, No. 2 Most Visited: 4.39 million people | Formed: Feb. 26, 1919 Location: State | Nearest town Most visitors observe Grand Canyon National Park from its South Rim entrance. At more than 1.2 million acres , the park's main attraction -- t...