US National Parks are some of the country’s most beautiful places to visit, but this time of year, they can also be incredibly dangerous. While extremely hot summers aren’t new for many of the nation’s national parks, some of these parks are experiencing even higher temperatures this year.
Currently, most of the country is experiencing a dangerous heat wave. These sweltering temperatures can make any outdoor activity dangerous and even fatal if the proper precautions aren’t taken. Despite the extreme temperatures, this heat wave hasn’t stopped tourists from visiting places like Death Valley National Park, where temperatures have reached over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Even though national parks don’t close during a heat wave, it’s important to be alert and pay attention to heat warnings if you plan on visiting one. According to the National Weather Service, an excessive heat warning is issued when temperatures are expected to be over 105 degrees Fahrenheit for at least two days.
Extreme heat isn’t only uncomfortable–it can also be fatal. In extreme temperatures, you can experience heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and dehydration. When the temperature is too hot, your body isn’t able to effectively cool you down. If you plan on visiting any of the nation’s beautiful national parks this summer, be sure you take the proper precautions and try to stay cool. (Check out The Highest Temperature in the US Every June Since 1950.)
To determine the national parks that are dangerously hot right now, 24/7 Tempo reviewed census tract level data on daily temperature from the NOAA’s nClimGrid-Daily program. National parks were ranked based on maximum temperature from July 1 to July 8, 2024. Temperature data was aggregated from census tracts to national parks using
Voyageurs National Park
- Maximum temperature, July 1-8, 2024: 78.9°F
- Average temperature, July 1-8, 2024: 62.9°F
- Annual visitors, 2023: 220,825
- Park area: 319.9 square miles
- Region: Northeast Minnesota
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- Maximum temperature, July 1-8, 2024: 79.6°F
- Average temperature, July 1-8, 2024: 64.7°F
- Annual visitors, 2023: 746,862
- Park area: 110.1 square miles
- Region: Southwest North Dakota
Isle Royale National Park
- Maximum temperature, July 1-8, 2024: 79.8°F
- Average temperature, July 1-8, 2024: 63.8°F
- Annual visitors, 2023: 28,965
- Park area: 862.1 square miles
- Region: West Upper Michigan
