The Great Smoky Mountains National Park welcomed a record 11.31 million people in 2016, according to a National Park Service release.
The total is 5.6 percent increase from the 10.71 million people who visited in 2015.
"I continue to be inspired by the number of people enjoying the park, but more importantly, I am moved by their unwavering support and care for this special place," said GSMNP Superintendent Cassius Cash. "This support is more critical than ever since we have entered into our second centruy of service and recovery following the Chimney Tops fire."
"The response of the Smoky Mountains community, both near and far, has been remarkable and we thank you."
