Increase in Yellowstone park visitors cited for carrying small amounts of medical and recreational

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) -- Tourists aren't just taking in the breathtaking views at Yellowstone National Park.

They're taking in the weed and getting high too.

In recent years, more park visitors are being cited for carrying small amounts of medical and recreational pot.

Rangers say many visitors from states where medical pot is legal don't realize it's still off-limits on federal land.

The U.S. Attorney's Office in Cheyenne says it prosecuted 21 marijuana cases from Yellowstone in 2010.

That number rose to 52 in 2013 and, as of mid-December, 80 cases in 2014.

Those convicted of misdemeanor possession usually receive a $1,000 fine.

The numbers are small compared to the nearly 4 million visitors who trek each year to Yellowstone, the nation's first national park.

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