Exploring Lesser-Known U.S. National Parks This Summer
With over 400 locations in the National Park System, the United States is home to a variety of stunning landscapes waiting to be explored. However, summer often draws massive crowds to the most popular parks, which can detract from the experience. Instead of battling long lines and packed trails, consider venturing to some lesser-known but equally breathtaking alternatives.
Top 10 Most Visited Parks
The parks that typically attract the largest number of visitors include:
| Rank | National Park | Visitors (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Great Smoky Mountains | 14,137,000 |
| 2 | Yosemite | 4,601,000 |
| 3 | Yellowstone | 4,862,000 |
| 4 | Zion | 4,691,000 |
| 5 | Rocky Mountain | 3,546,000 |
| 6 | Grand Canyon | 5,971,000 |
| 7 | Acadia | 3,641,000 |
| 8 | Glacier | 3,370,000 |
| 9 | Joshua Tree | 3,822,000 |
| 10 | Mount Rainier | 1,811,000 |
Why Seek Quieter Alternatives?
Avoiding the well-trodden paths can lead to rich experiences. The less-visited parks boast stunning vistas, abundant wildlife, and a chance for solitude. Here’s what you might find by choosing these hidden gems:
- Authentic Experiences: Enjoy nature without the hustle and bustle of large crowds.
- Unique Landscapes: Many lesser-known parks offer unique geological features and ecosystems.
- Improved Access: Fewer visitors mean easier access to trails, campsites, and scenic viewpoints.
Recommended Lesser-Known Parks
Consider visiting these spectacular alternatives:
- Congaree National Park: Famous for its old-growth bottomland hardwood forest.
- North Cascades National Park: Home to rugged mountains, stunning landscapes, and glacial lakes.
- Great Basin National Park: Features ancient bristlecone pine trees and sprawling caves.
- Biscayne National Park: Protects beautiful coral reefs and marine wildlife off the coast of Florida.
- Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: The largest national park in the U.S., featuring vast wilderness and diverse ecosystems.
Stepping off the beaten path can lead to unexpected discoveries that enhance your travel experience this summer. So, pack your bags for an adventure that truly celebrates the beauty of America’s national parks!
