When it comes to national parks, names like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon often steal the spotlight. However, the United States is home to many lesser-known parks that offer equally breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences. Here are 13 underrated US national parks that deserve a spot on your travel list.
1. Great Basin National Park, Nevada
Great Basin National Park is a hidden gem in Nevada, offering stunning views, ancient bristlecone pines, and the fascinating Lehman Caves. The park is known for its high desert terrain and mountainous landscapes, creating a dramatic contrast that is both awe-inspiring and serene. The isolation of Great Basin means fewer crowds, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the peaceful surroundings.
The park is home to Wheeler Peak, the second-highest peak in Nevada, which offers challenging hiking trails and breathtaking panoramic views. The bristlecone pine trees, some of which are over 5,000 years old, are a testament to the resilience and longevity of nature. These ancient trees can be found on the Bristlecone Pine Trail, a moderate hike that provides an up-close look at these living relics.
Lehman Caves, a marble cave system filled with unique formations, offers guided tours that delve into the subterranean wonders. From intricate stalactites and stalagmites to rare shield formations, the caves are a hidden treasure beneath the park’s rugged surface. Whether you’re stargazing in one of the darkest skies in the country or exploring its diverse ecosystems, Great Basin National Park is a destination that promises tranquility and discovery.
2. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Isle Royale National Park, situated in Lake Superior, is an adventurer’s paradise that is often overlooked due to its remote location. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park’s isolation contributes to its pristine, untouched beauty. The island’s rugged terrain and surrounding waters offer exceptional opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
The park is renowned for its diverse ecosystem, including a thriving population of moose and wolves. The ongoing study of predator-prey relationships between these species makes Isle Royale a significant site for wildlife research. Visitors can explore over 165 miles of hiking trails that traverse the island’s dense forests, serene lakes, and rocky ridges.
Camping on Isle Royale provides a chance to experience the park’s natural beauty up close. Whether you choose a backcountry site or a more developed campground, the solitude and tranquility of the island create a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior also offer excellent fishing, canoeing, and scuba diving, making Isle Royale a unique and rewarding destination for nature enthusiasts.
3. North Cascades National Park, Washington
North Cascades National Park, often overshadowed by Mount Rainier, is a true wilderness haven in Washington State. Known for its jagged peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and dense forests, the park offers a rugged and breathtaking landscape that is ideal for hiking and mountaineering. The park’s remote location ensures that it remains less crowded, providing a more intimate experience with nature.
The North Cascades are home to over 300 glaciers, the most of any US national park outside Alaska. This glacial activity has carved out deep valleys and created stunning landscapes that are both dramatic and serene. The Cascade Pass Trail is one of the park’s most popular hikes, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and a chance to witness the park’s unique geology.
Wildlife is abundant in North Cascades, with opportunities to see black bears, mountain goats, and a variety of bird species. The park’s diverse habitats support a rich array of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Whether you’re navigating its challenging trails or simply soaking in the serene beauty, North Cascades National Park is a destination that promises adventure and tranquility.
4. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
Congaree National Park in South Carolina is a unique landscape of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest that is often overlooked by travelers. The park is home to some of the tallest trees in the eastern United States, creating a lush, green canopy that is both serene and majestic. This biodiverse environment supports a wide range of plant and animal life, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Exploring Congaree is best done by kayak or canoe, as the park’s waterways provide a unique perspective of its swampy terrain. Paddling through the park’s flooded forests and along its winding creeks offers an intimate look at the ecosystem, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as otters, bobcats, and a variety of bird species. The Cedar Creek Canoe Trail is a popular route that takes paddlers deep into the heart of the park.
For those who prefer to stay on land, the park offers several hiking trails that wind through its diverse landscapes. The Boardwalk Loop Trail provides an accessible way to explore the park’s unique environment, with elevated walkways that keep visitors dry while offering excellent views of the forest floor. Whether you’re navigating the waterways or hiking through the forest, Congaree National Park offers a peaceful and immersive nature experience.
5. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado is a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape that is often overlooked by visitors. The park features some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. The narrow canyon plunges to depths of over 2,000 feet, creating stunning vistas that are both breathtaking and humbling.
The park offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, rock climbing, and fishing. The Rim Rock Trail provides easy access to some of the most spectacular viewpoints along the canyon’s edge, offering stunning views of the Gunnison River far below. For a more challenging experience, the Gunnison Route takes hikers to the bottom of the canyon, providing an up-close look at its sheer walls and unique geology.
Rock climbers will find Black Canyon to be a paradise, with its vertical cliffs offering a variety of routes that test even the most experienced climbers. The park’s remote location and rugged terrain ensure that it remains less crowded, providing a more personal and immersive experience. Whether you’re scaling its cliffs or simply soaking in the views from above, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a destination that promises adventure and wonder.
6. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Texas is a desert oasis known for its striking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak. The park’s rugged terrain and unique geology make it a fascinating destination for hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts. The varied landscapes, from desert lowlands to lush forests, provide a striking contrast that is both beautiful and unique.
The park is home to the fossilized remains of an ancient reef, which can be explored along the Permian Reef Geology Trail. This trail offers a fascinating journey through time, showcasing the park’s rich geological history and providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Guadalupe Peak Trail is another popular hike, leading to the highest point in Texas and offering panoramic views of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Bird-watching is a popular activity in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, with over 300 species of birds recorded in the area. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide range of wildlife, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re exploring its rugged trails, camping under the stars, or simply enjoying the peace and tranquility of the desert, Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers a unique and rewarding experience.
7. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in Colorado is a unique landscape that features the tallest sand dunes in North America. The park’s massive dunes rise over 750 feet, creating a stunning and surreal landscape that is both beautiful and challenging. Visitors can explore the dunes by hiking, sandboarding, or even sledding, offering a variety of ways to experience this unique environment.
The park’s diverse landscapes extend beyond the dunes, with wetlands, grasslands, and alpine forests providing a striking contrast to the arid desert. The Medano Creek, which flows at the base of the dunes, offers a refreshing oasis where visitors can cool off and enjoy the unique phenomenon of “surge flow,” where waves of water surge down the creek bed. This seasonal creek adds another layer of beauty and fun to the park.
Stargazing is another popular activity at Great Sand Dunes, thanks to its dark skies and minimal light pollution. The park offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country, with clear views of the Milky Way and other celestial wonders. Whether you’re exploring the towering dunes, enjoying the cool waters of Medano Creek, or gazing up at the night sky, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
8. Pinnacles National Park, California
Pinnacles National Park in California is a geological wonderland formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. The park is known for its towering rock spires, talus caves, and diverse ecosystems, making it a fascinating destination for hikers, rock climbers, and nature enthusiasts. The park’s unique geology and varied landscapes provide a striking and beautiful backdrop for exploration.
The Pinnacles’ rock formations are a climber’s paradise, offering a variety of routes that range from beginner to advanced. The High Peaks Trail provides stunning views of the park’s rugged terrain and offers a challenging hike that rewards with panoramic vistas. The park’s talus caves, formed by fallen boulders, offer a unique and adventurous way to explore its underground landscapes.
Wildlife is abundant in Pinnacles National Park, with the rare California condor often spotted soaring above the park’s peaks. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a great destination forwildlife enthusiasts. Whether you’re scaling its rocky spires, exploring its caves, or simply soaking in the beauty of its landscapes, Pinnacles National Park offers a unique and rewarding experience.
9. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Lassen Volcanic National Park in California offers a unique landscape of volcanic features, including steaming fumaroles, boiling springs, and bubbling mud pots. The park’s geothermal activity creates a fascinating and dynamic environment that is both beautiful and intriguing. The park’s diverse landscapes, from volcanic peaks to lush forests, provide a striking contrast that is both dramatic and serene.
The park’s centerpiece, Lassen Peak, is one of the largest plug dome volcanoes in the world and offers a challenging hike to its summit. The Bumpass Hell Trail is another popular hike that takes visitors through a geothermal area filled with steaming fumaroles and colorful hot springs. The park’s unique geology and thermal features provide a fascinating landscape for exploration.
Wildlife is abundant in Lassen Volcanic National Park, with opportunities to see black bears, deer, and a variety of bird species. The park’s diverse habitats support a rich array of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Whether you’re hiking its volcanic peaks, exploring its geothermal features, or simply enjoying the peace and tranquility of its forests, Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a unique and rewarding experience.
10. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio is a green oasis nestled between Cleveland and Akron, offering a lush landscape of rolling hills, forests, and waterfalls. The park’s scenic beauty and historical significance make it a perfect destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The park’s extensive trail system and scenic railroad provide a variety of ways to explore its diverse landscapes.
The Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail is one of the park’s most popular attractions, offering a scenic route that follows the historic canal and provides a glimpse into the region’s past. The trail is ideal for hiking, biking, and bird-watching, with opportunities to see a variety of wildlife along the way. The park’s waterfalls, including the picturesque Brandywine Falls, provide stunning views and peaceful spots for relaxation.
The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers a unique way to experience the park’s beauty, with scenic train rides that traverse the park’s landscapes and provide narrated tours of its history and natural features. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring its trails, enjoying a scenic train ride, or simply soaking in the beauty of its landscapes, Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers a unique and rewarding experience.
11. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Capitol Reef National Park in Utah is a hidden treasure of red rock formations, cliffs, and canyons that is often overlooked by visitors. The park is known for the Waterpocket Fold, a unique geologic monocline that stretches for nearly 100 miles and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park’s dramatic scenery and remote location make it a perfect destination for hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts.
The Capitol Gorge Trail is one of the park’s most popular hikes, offering a journey through a narrow canyon filled with petroglyphs and unique rock formations. The park’s diverse landscapes, from rugged cliffs to lush orchards, provide a striking contrast that is both beautiful and unique. The Scenic Drive offers a picturesque route through the heart of the park, providing stunning views of its red rock formations and desert landscapes.
Wildlife is abundant in Capitol Reef, with opportunities to see mule deer, bighorn sheep, and a variety of bird species. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re exploring its rugged trails, camping under the stars, or simply enjoying the peace and tranquility of its landscapes, Capitol Reef National Park offers a unique and rewarding experience.
12. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota is a water-based park that is best explored by boat, offering a unique and tranquil landscape of interconnected waterways, pristine lakes, and lush forests. The park’s remote location and serene environment make it a perfect destination for solitude seekers and nature enthusiasts. The park’s diverse landscapes, from rocky cliffs to dense forests, provide a striking contrast that is both beautiful and serene.
The park’s waterways offer excellent opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking, with a variety of routes that traverse its lakes and rivers. The Kabetogama Peninsula, accessible only by water, offers a remote and pristine landscape that is perfect for exploring by boat. The park’s campsites, many of which are accessible only by water, provide a peaceful and secluded spot for camping under the stars.
Wildlife is abundant in Voyageurs National Park, with opportunities to see bald eagles, moose, and a variety of fish species. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you’re navigating its waterways, camping in its remote landscapes, or simply enjoying the peace and tranquility of its environment, Voyageurs National Park offers a unique and rewarding experience.
13. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend National Park in Texas is a vast and diverse landscape that offers a unique blend of desert, mountain, and river environments. The park is known for its striking canyons, hot springs, and rich cultural history, making it a fascinating destination for hikers, campers, and history enthusiasts. The park’s remote location and dramatic scenery provide a perfect backdrop for exploration and adventure.
The Chisos Mountains, located in the heart of the park, offer a variety of hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding desert and mountains. The Lost Mine Trail is one of the park’s most popular hikes, offering panoramic vistas and a glimpse into the park’s unique geology. The Rio Grande, which forms the park’s southern boundary, offers excellent opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and rafting, with routes that traverse its dramatic canyons.
The park’s hot springs, located along the Rio Grande, provide a relaxing and rejuvenating spot for soaking in the natural thermal waters. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide range of wildlife, including javelinas, roadrunners, and a variety of bird species. Whether you’re exploring its rugged trails, floating down the Rio Grande, or simply soaking in its hot springs, Big Bend National Park offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Conclusion
These underrated national parks offer unique landscapes and experiences that rival the more famous parks but without the crowds. Whether you’re seeking solitude, adventure, or simply a new place to explore, these parks are well worth a visit. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the hidden gems of the US national park system.
