Escape the crowds: Explore these little-known national parks.

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Exploring hidden gems: A guide to America’s little-known national parks

The United States is renowned for its breathtaking national parks, but beyond the popular destinations like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon lies a collection of lesser-known treasures. These hidden gems offer unique landscapes, fewer crowds, and unparalleled opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re seeking tranquillity, rugged wilderness, or distinctive ecosystems, these under-the-radar parks have something for everyone. Let’s dive into some of America’s best-kept secrets in the National Park System.

The ultimate guide to the US national parks you haven’t heard of

1. Great Basin National Park, Nevada

Nestled in eastern Nevada, Great Basin National Park is a haven for stargazers and nature enthusiasts. Home to ancient bristlecone pines, some of which are over 4,000 years old, this park also boasts the Lehman Caves—a limestone cave system adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, and rare shield formations.

What to do:

Hiking: The Wheeler Peak Trail offers stunning views of Nevada’s second-highest peak.

Stargazing: As an International Dark Sky Park, Great Basin is one of the best places in the US to view the Milky Way.

Tours: Explore the Lehman Caves on a guided tour to learn about their geology and history.

2. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Congaree National Park preserves one of the largest intact expanses of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. This lush, swampy paradise is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and birdwatching.

What to do:

Boardwalk hike: Walk the 2.4-mile Boardwalk Loop Trail to immerse yourself in the forest.

Paddling adventures: Glide through the park’s waterways on Cedar Creek.

Wildlife watching: Keep an eye out for river otters, barred owls, and pileated woodpeckers.

3. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

Rising from the desert floor, the Guadalupe Mountains are a rugged sanctuary for hikers and climbers. The park is home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas, and the historic Frijole Ranch.

What to do:

Summit Guadalupe Peak: Challenge yourself with this rewarding 8.5-mile round-trip hike.

Visit McKittrick Canyon: Discover vibrant fall foliage and historic ruins.

Camp out: Enjoy stargazing and solitude at one of the park’s remote campsites.

4. North Cascades National Park, Washington

Known as the “American Alps”, North Cascades National Park dazzles with its jagged peaks, over 300 glaciers, and turquoise alpine lakes. Despite its beauty, it’s one of the least-visited national parks in the country.

What to do:

Hiking: The Cascade Pass Trail offers sweeping views of glaciated peaks.

Boat tours: Explore Ross Lake or Diablo Lake by kayak or canoe.

Photography: Capture stunning landscapes and vibrant wildflowers.

5. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend’s diverse terrain includes desert, mountains, and river valleys, all teeming with life. This park, situated along the US-Mexico border, offers solitude and dramatic scenery.

What to do:

Rio Grande Paddling: Float down the river in a canoe or raft.

Hiking: Explore the Window Trail for panoramic desert views.

Hot springs: Soak in natural hot springs along the Rio Grande.

Why visit lesser-known national parks?

While iconic parks draw millions of visitors annually, lesser-known parks provide a more intimate experience. These hidden gems often feature:

Unique ecosystems: Discover environments you won’t find elsewhere.

Fewer crowds: Enjoy the tranquillity of nature without the hustle and bustle.

Affordable adventures: Many of these parks have lower entrance fees or are free to visit.

Plan your adventure with AllTrails

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, AllTrails is your ultimate companion for exploring the great outdoors. This all-in-one platform offers tools and resources to make your national park adventure seamless and unforgettable.

Key features of AllTrails

Comprehensive trail database: With over 400,000 trails worldwide, AllTrails provides detailed descriptions, photos, and reviews to help you choose the perfect hike.
Customisable filters: Search for trails based on difficulty, length, elevation gain, and activities like biking or dog-walking.
Offline access: Download trail maps for offline use, ensuring you stay on track even in remote areas with no cell service.
Real-time GPS navigation: Follow your progress in real time with GPS-enabled maps, and never worry about getting lost.
Safety features: Share your live location with friends and family for added safety on solo hikes.
Community insights: Read reviews and tips from other hikers to prepare for trail conditions and seasonal changes.
Adventure tracking: Log your hikes, track your fitness goals, and earn badges for completed trails.
Pro membership: Upgrade to AllTrails+ for exclusive perks like printable maps, weather overlays, and advanced planning tools.

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Conclusion

Exploring America’s lesser-known national parks offers a chance to connect with nature in its purest form. From the ancient pines of Great Basin to the alpine wonders of North Cascades, these hidden gems promise unforgettable experiences. As you embark on your journey, make AllTrails your go-to guide for trail navigation, safety, and inspiration. Whether you’re hiking, paddling, or simply soaking in the views, AllTrails ensures your outdoor adventures are nothing short of extraordinary.

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