7 Underrated National Parks That Offer Solitude and Beauty

Yosemite National Park is undoubtedly stunning, but its popularity can sometimes mean navigating through throngs of visitors, especially during the busy summer months.

If you’re yearning for peace and the chance to explore nature’s wonders away from the hustle, consider these seven lesser-known national parks across the United States. Each offers its own majestic landscapes and experiences, promising solitude and unforgettable beauty.

1. Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Tucked away in Utah’s high desert, Canyonlands National Park beckons with its vibrant canyons and striking desert vistas that rival the grandeur of Yosemite.

With only around 800,000 visitors in 2023, it’s a haven for solitude amidst its colorful canyons, mesas, and towering spires. Adventure seekers can indulge in activities like whitewater rafting, hiking to the iconic Mesa Arch, or marveling at the stars under the pristine night sky.

2. North Cascades National Park, Washington

Home to over 300 glaciers and rugged peaks, North Cascades National Park offers a quieter alternative to Yosemite’s bustling alpine scenery. With just over 40,000 visitors in 2023, it’s perfect for those seeking solitude amidst dense forests, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and exhilarating trails like Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm.

3. Redwood National Park, California

Known for its towering redwoods—the tallest trees on Earth—Redwood National Park offers a serene coastal escape away from Yosemite’s crowds.

With pristine beaches, scenic drives winding through ancient forests, and diverse wildlife such as the majestic Roosevelt elk, it attracts around 409,000 visitors annually. Trails like the Lady Bird Johnson Grove offer ample opportunities to immerse yourself in this ancient forest’s quiet magnificence.

4. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

For a unique water-based adventure far from Yosemite’s mountainous terrain, Voyageurs National Park is an ideal retreat. Its interconnected waterways, bordered by lush forests, offer opportunities for boating, hiking along trails like the Oberholtzer Trail, and unique experiences like witnessing the Northern Lights dance across the northern skies. Despite its beauty, it sees just 220,000 visitors annually, ensuring a tranquil escape.

5. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

Guadalupe Mountains National Park boasts rugged wilderness and the highest peak in Texas—Guadalupe Peak. With around 227,000 visitors in 2023, it offers hiking trails such as the challenging Guadalupe Peak Trail and opportunities to encounter diverse desert wildlife amid breathtaking desert landscapes. It’s a worthy alternative for those seeking Yosemite’s geological wonders without the crowds.

6. Great Basin National Park, Nevada

Escape to the high desert landscapes of Great Basin National Park, home to Lehman Caves and ancient bristlecone pines. With free admission and just 143,000 visitors in 2023, it’s a hidden gem offering trails like the Bristlecone Pine Glacier Trail and exceptional stargazing opportunities due to its designation as an International Dark Sky Park.

7. Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park is a treasure trove of diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines and glacier-capped mountains. With over 2.9 million visitors in 2023, it’s more accessible than Yosemite but still offers pockets of solitude on trails like Mount Storm King and in serene spots like the enchanting Hoh Rainforest.

These national parks provide unique alternatives to Yosemite, offering peace, solitude, and unforgettable natural beauty without the crowds. Whether you’re an avid hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking tranquility in nature’s embrace, these destinations promise an enriching escape from the beaten path.