While popular parks like Yosemite and Yellowstone are wall-to-wall with tourists, you can avoid that headache and travel to these stunning national parks that have managed to stay under the radar.
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Don’t share your vacation with thousands of strangers! Check out these nine hidden gems.
North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park is a great choice for those looking to avoid crowds. The park offers a variety of trails with stunning views, many of which can be accessed right off State Route 20. While lack of access throughout the park by car can be an issue for some, the remote location and limited road access make this park uncrowded and perfect for hiking, backpacking, and wildlife viewing.
Congaree National Park
The lesser-known status of this park keeps it under the radar, leaving the park uncrowded and peaceful for visitors. You won’t have to venture into the backcountry to get some peace and quiet, either. The park offers a 2.4-mile looped boardwalk trail that is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, and there are nine other hiking trails throughout the park. Additionally, the park is located just 30 minutes from downtown Columbia, South Carolina, making it easily accessible for those in the area.
Great Basin National Park
If you want to be where the people aren’t this summer, try Great Basin National Park in Nevada. The park offers a variety of hiking trails through its unique desert landscape, as well as opportunities for stargazing and cave exploration. Additionally, the park is located in a more remote area of Nevada, making it less accessible for many visitors and therefore less crowded.
Pinnacles National Park
Many popular western national parks experience a huge tourist rush in the summer, but not Pinnacles National Park. The park is one of the least-visited national parks in the United States, making it a great choice for those who want to experience the beauty of the park without the crowds. The low attendance isn’t due to a lack of things to do; the park offers a variety of trails for hiking and rock climbing, as well as opportunities to see wildlife such as the California condor.
Isle Royale National Park
If you really want to get away from it all this summer, hop on a seaplane and head to Isle Royale National Park. The park is located on an island in Lake Superior and can only be accessed by boat or seaplane, which limits the number of visitors. Once you’ve arrived, you can explore a variety of hiking trails through the park’s wilderness area. There are also opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors should be aware that the park is only open from mid-April to the end of October due to harsh winter weather conditions, so plan accordingly.
Lassen Volcanic National Park
This California park receives fewer visitors than other parks in the state, making it a good destination to consider if you want to avoid crowds. The volcanic nature of this park creates tons of fascinating features to explore. You can visit the unique hydrothermal areas such as Bumpass Hell and Sulphur Works, where superheated steam rises through the Earth’s crust. As you hike, every rock you see was formed by volcanic activity! Snowpack makes many trails inaccessible until spring or later, so summer is the perfect time to visit.
Dry Tortugas National Park
Here’s what you’ll find at Dry Tortugas National Park, off the coast of Key West: snorkeling, diving, crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and dark skies for stargazing. What you won’t find? Crowds! This remote but beautiful park is the perfect place to enjoy summer recreation without other tourists packed around you.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
At this national park, you can experience the stunning mountain and cliff views that make Colorado world-famous, and you won’t have to share them with tons of other travelers. This park’s remote location and rugged terrain make it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love a challenge and hate crowds.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
Escape the tourist masses in the serene landscapes of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Whether you’re sandboarding down the dunes, hiking along scenic trails, or stargazing under the night sky, Great Sand Dunes provides a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle. Embrace the solitude at this hidden Colorado gem!
The 16 Best National Parks To Visit in June For Summer Fun
Are you looking for the perfect summer adventure? Look no further than these top national parks to visit in June! From the stunning wildflower displays at Lassen Volcanic National Park to the world-class whitewater rafting at New River Gorge National Park, this article provides insider tips and recommendations for an unforgettable outdoor experience. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore these breathtaking natural wonders during one of the best months of the year!
6 National Parks To Avoid This Summer (And The Alternatives)
Are you planning a summer trip to a national park but want to avoid the crowds? Look no further than this article, which provides insider tips on which popular national parks to avoid and offers recommendations for six alternative destinations that offer unique experiences and stunning natural beauty. From exploring rugged peaks and pristine lakes at North Cascades National Park to discovering the geological history of Capitol Reef National Park, this article has everything you need to plan an unforgettable outdoor adventure this summer.
Best 16 Utah Vacation Spots
Are you looking for an unforgettable vacation spot with breathtaking natural beauty? Look no further than Utah! With stunning national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon, as well as unique attractions like the Homestead Crater and Dead Horse Point, Utah has something for everyone. This article provides insider tips and recommendations for the best places to visit in Utah, from hiking to skiing to soaking in natural hot springs. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore this incredible outdoor playground!
5 Waterfalls in Zion National Park For A Fabulous Day Out
Are you a nature enthusiast looking for an outdoor adventure that will take your breath away? Look no further than Zion National Park in southwestern Utah! This article explores the park’s stunning waterfalls, including the moderate hike to Archangel Falls and the more challenging Upper Emerald Pools. But that’s not all – the article also highlights other natural attractions in the park, such as The Great White Throne and the Court of the Patriarchs. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore this gorgeous landscape and experience the beauty of Utah’s unique natural wonders!
