Colorado national parks drew record spending in 2021
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Visitors to Colorado's national parks spent a record $560 million in 2021, ranking the state 13th nationwide, according to a new report from the National Park Service.
- Last year's total outpaces the historic high of $515 million set in 2019, and is 43% more than in 2020, when the figure plunged to $392 million.
Why it matters: The overall outdoor economy was responsible for more than $9.5 billion of state revenue — 2.5% of Colorado's GDP in 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
By the numbers: Colorado's national parks attracted 7.8 million visitors in 2021.
- The largest share of park spending was on lodging, at $188 million, followed by restaurants ($109 million) and fuel ($72.7 million).
- Colorado's national parks also support nearly 7,600 jobs, generating $303 million in labor income.
Of note: Rocky Mountain National Park was the most visited site, generating $323 million.
- Mesa Verde National Park was the second-most-trafficked, raking in nearly $63 million.
The other side: The popularity of Colorado's national parks has taken a toll on facilities and visitor access, as public land managers attempt to curb human impacts on the environment.
- Rocky Mountain National Park now requires a time entry reservation.
- Many other public lands in Colorado also have tightened visitor restrictions this summer.