The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks, but while places like Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon draw millions of visitors each year, many hidden gems remain largely undiscovered. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and explore pristine wilderness, these eight least-visited national parks deserve a spot on your travel list.
1. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
Located entirely above the Arctic Circle, Gates of the Arctic is one of the most remote national parks in the US. With no roads, trails, or designated campsites, it offers an untouched wilderness for experienced adventurers. Visitors can explore rugged mountains, vast tundra, and crystal-clear rivers while encountering wildlife like grizzly bears, caribou, and Arctic foxes.
2. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Nestled in the waters of Lake Superior, Isle Royale is an isolated paradise accessible only by boat or seaplane. This park is a haven for backpackers, kayakers, and wildlife enthusiasts, offering stunning vistas, dense forests, and the famous wolf-moose population study. The park’s solitude makes it perfect for those seeking an off-the-grid escape.
3. North Cascades National Park, Washington
Despite being only a few hours from Seattle, North Cascades remains one of the least visited national parks. This alpine wonderland is home to jagged peaks, over 300 glaciers, and vibrant wildflower meadows. With few roads penetrating the park, hiking and backcountry camping provide the best ways to experience its breathtaking landscapes.
4. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
Kobuk Valley is another Alaskan treasure that sees very few visitors. Its golden sand dunes, which stretch across the Arctic tundra, create a surreal landscape. The park is also home to the annual migration of 500,000 caribou, making it a must-visit for wildlife lovers. With no roads leading in, visitors typically arrive by bush plane for a truly remote experience.
5. Great Basin National Park, Nevada
A hidden gem in eastern Nevada, Great Basin National Park boasts ancient bristlecone pines, stunning cave formations in Lehman Caves, and some of the darkest night skies in the country. The park’s Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive offers breathtaking views, while the summit hike rewards visitors with a sweeping panorama of the Great Basin Desert.
6. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Located 70 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas is a stunning park accessible only by boat or seaplane. Home to the historic Fort Jefferson, the park is famous for its turquoise waters, coral reefs, and abundant marine life. Snorkeling, birdwatching, and exploring the remote islands make this an unforgettable experience.
7. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
Often overshadowed by other Southeastern parks, Congaree is a floodplain forest featuring some of the tallest trees in the eastern US. Its unique landscape is best explored by kayak or canoe, allowing visitors to navigate through the lush, swampy wilderness. The boardwalk trails also offer a chance to observe diverse bird species and other wildlife.
8. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Lassen Volcanic is often overlooked in favor of more famous California parks, but it offers a unique combination of steaming fumaroles, pristine alpine lakes, and towering volcanic peaks. The park’s geothermal activity rivals that of Yellowstone, but with far fewer crowds. Lassen Peak, one of the world’s largest plug dome volcanoes, is a must-see for geology enthusiasts.
Conclusion
If you’re seeking solitude, adventure, and untouched natural beauty, these lesser-known national parks provide an incredible alternative to the usual tourist hotspots. Whether you’re hiking in the Arctic tundra, exploring ancient caves, or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, these parks prove that some of the best destinations are still waiting to be discovered.
