Top 11 US National Parks that are total hidden gems

US National Park: Top 11 US National Parks, virtually everyone has heard of Yosemite and Zion. But there are more than 400 sites in the US National Park System. 60 of which have earned the official national park designation. 

There were more than 84 million national park visits in 2018. But more than 50% of these were spread across only 10 parks. But at these 11 destinations, we promise that the people are sparse but the views are plentiful.

North Cascades National Park in Washington

In spite of the plentiful photos of mountain vistas and placid lakes on Instagram. National Cascades remains one of the least visited.

The alpine landscape makes it an easy escape for both day hikers and backpackers. Diablo Lake and Desolation Peak are a couple of noteworthy routes with dramatic views. Though summer is prime visitation time, there are a few facilities that remain open year-round.

Congaree National Park in South Carolina

Its slumping hardwood forest, rich biodiversity makes it a hiker’s paradise.

Congaree Biosphere Reserve, the park is also recognized internationally for the rare ecosystems that exist along the Congaree River. In addition to walking the trails and exploring the park by canoe. Keep an eye out for the synchronous fireflies that make their debut between May and June.

Dry Tortugas National Park in Florida

Dry Tortugas National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. Composed of seven islands in the Gulf of Mexico.

The park’s rare bird populations. A historic military fort and crystal-clear waters are all common draws. Consider snorkelling at one of the protected coral reefs or scouting for sooty terns and magnificent frigatebird along the Great Florida Birding Trail.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska

As the largest in the country, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park’s 13.2 million acres mean chances of human contact are few and far between.

Wildlife sightings are more than common. However, the park is also home to the largest single wilderness in the US, touting nine million acres of forest. 

Glaciers, historic mining sites, and dramatic mountain ranges are all part of the experience. Keep in mind that backpacking the park requires some serious planning and the prime time to visit is between June and September.

Isle Royale National Park in Michigan

Michigan’s Isle Royale National Park is as diverse in its experiences as its Landscape located in the middle of Lake Superior.

The park’s rugged beauty and accessible isolation are some of its primary draws. Head to Rock Harbor and Windigo for some great day hikes or dive. Deep to see some of the best-preserved shipwrecks in the country. 

Katmai National Park in Alaska

Eight parks in Alaska, it’s hard to pick a favourite. However, Katmai National Park has earned its reputation. As a prime wildlife viewing destination, though visitors are still fairly sparse.

In addition, to bear watching at Brooks Camp, Katmai’s varied landscape and volcanic history make it worthy of any bucket list. Take some time to explore the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes – the result of a massive eruption in the early 20th century.

Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota

Located along the Canadian border with the Boundary Waters as a backdrop. It caters primarily to canoers and fishermen.

Voyageurs is open year-round, through the summer months are best for hiking and boating. In addition to its island-dotted lakes, Kettle Falls. The Ellsworth Rock Gardens are a couple more of the perk’s highlights.

White Sands National Park in New Mexico

White Sands National Park suits its name. Composed of giant, white sand dunes that span several miles. The park is home to the largest gypsum dune field in the world.

There are many trails to explore the landscape as well as an eight-mile scenic drive – though many visitors choose to take in the sights by sled. Consider a native plant tour or guided walk around Lake Lucero to learn about the park’s rich biodiversity.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota

Theodore Roosevelt Park is far from underwhelming. Vast prairie lands and painted canyons mark the park’s landscape, which is cradled by the Missouri River.

Backcountry hiking and backpacking are popular activities. As well as camping for those seeking epic views of the Milky Way with abundant bison, the park is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Capitol Reef National Park in Utah

If Bryce and Zion are on your radar, consider a trip to Capitol Reef National Park instead. Home to a 100-mile wrinkle in the earth called the Water pocket Fold.

The park’s unique geology and prime location in Utah’s red rock country make it a no-brainer for those seeking out canyons and dramatic desert landscapes. Capitol Reef is also one of the country’s top stargazing spots.

Pinnacles National Park in California

Only a short drive from some of the most scenic towns on California’s Central Coast, Pinnacles Park is relatively unknown across the US.

The park’s volcanic landscape is home to caves and other geological wonders, attracting both hikers and climbers. Pinnacles High Peaks are also a prime viewing spot for California condors – a species that barely escaped extinction in the late 1980s along with other birds and prairie life.