LeadStory

The Weather Channel

How many hats are lost in Yellowstone National Park?

The Weather Channel · Just In
The Weather Channel
The Weather Channel
Just In

Over the course of a year, more than 4 million tourists visit Yellowstone National Park, and many of those folks leave the park with less than they arrive with. Thousands of pieces of junk are left behind, including hundreds of hats lost.

Breakdown
  • Yellowstone receives over 4 million visitors each year, leading to significant litter.
  • Hundreds of hats are lost by visitors, especially in the park's springs. 10s
  • The Yellowstone Geology Program maintains 1,300 miles of trails and boardwalks. 21s
  • In 2025, over 13,000 pieces of trash and more than 300 hats were collected. 30s
  • Visitors are advised to secure their hats when visiting the park. 44s
TravelEnvironment