You Won't Want To Skip The 10 Least-Visited National Parks In America
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Jasmine Vieau
Author
Hey, adventure seekers! Are you ready to add some new destinations to your national parks bucket list? Did you know that out of over 400 sites managed by the National Parks Service – 63 of which are true National Parks – some receive far fewer visitors than others? In fact, the 10 parks we’re about to explore attracted the fewest visitors in 2023, making them the perfect destinations for those seeking solitude and untouched natural beauty. So, if you’re tired of crowded trails and busy campgrounds, buckle up as I unveil the hidden treasures of these least-visited national parks, where adventure awaits without the crowds!
1. Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA
Nestled in the remote Alaskan wilderness, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is like stepping into a pristine Arctic dreamscape. This least-visited wonder, which had only 11,045 visits in 2023, spans a colossal 8 million acres, boasting untamed beauty with no marked trails or roads. It's a playground for those craving genuine wilderness adventures.
Imagine the majestic Brooks Range, endless stretches of tundra, and winding rivers like the Noatak and Kobuk. The park is home to a rich wildlife enclave where caribou and grizzlies make their home. And if you're fortunate enough, you may even witness an awe-inspiring display of the Northern Lights.
Gates of the Arctic beckons daring souls to explore its untouched terrains, offering an authentic and secluded escape for those seeking the true essence of the Arctic wilderness.
Imagine the majestic Brooks Range, endless stretches of tundra, and winding rivers like the Noatak and Kobuk. The park is home to a rich wildlife enclave where caribou and grizzlies make their home. And if you're fortunate enough, you may even witness an awe-inspiring display of the Northern Lights.
Gates of the Arctic beckons daring souls to explore its untouched terrains, offering an authentic and secluded escape for those seeking the true essence of the Arctic wilderness.
2. National Park of American Samoa
National Park of American Samoa, P8R7+RJC, Vatia, American Samoa
National Park of American Samoa, often overlooked but brimming with natural wonders, invites exploration in the South Pacific. Spanning three tropical islands and covering about 13,500 acres, the park encompasses lush rainforests, vibrant coral reefs, and untamed coastlines.
Unlike other national parks, this unique site allows visitors to experience both land and sea ecosystems. Notable points of interest include the breathtaking Mount 'Alava, offering panoramic views of the Pacific, and the Vatia Bay, where vibrant coral reefs teem with marine life. The park also preserves traditional Samoan culture, allowing visitors to engage with local communities and experience authentic island living. With its distinct blend of biodiversity and cultural richness, the National Park of American Samoa promises a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Unlike other national parks, this unique site allows visitors to experience both land and sea ecosystems. Notable points of interest include the breathtaking Mount 'Alava, offering panoramic views of the Pacific, and the Vatia Bay, where vibrant coral reefs teem with marine life. The park also preserves traditional Samoan culture, allowing visitors to engage with local communities and experience authentic island living. With its distinct blend of biodiversity and cultural richness, the National Park of American Samoa promises a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure.
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3. Lake Clark National Park and Preserve
Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA
Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, situated in southwestern Alaska, remains one of the United States' least-visited national parks and is renowned for its majestic mountain ranges, glaciers, and pristine lakes.
Surrounded by towering mountains, one of the park's main attractions is the turquoise-colored Lake Clark. Another popular spot worth visiting is Telaquana Lake, where visitors can try their hand at fishing and kayaking. The park's many hiking trails are also a great way to explore the surrounding mountains and valleys, offering picturesque views at every turn. Other points of interest include the historic Russian Orthodox Church in Port Alsworth and the park's many wildlife species, such as grizzly bears, wolves, and moose.
Surrounded by towering mountains, one of the park's main attractions is the turquoise-colored Lake Clark. Another popular spot worth visiting is Telaquana Lake, where visitors can try their hand at fishing and kayaking. The park's many hiking trails are also a great way to explore the surrounding mountains and valleys, offering picturesque views at every turn. Other points of interest include the historic Russian Orthodox Church in Port Alsworth and the park's many wildlife species, such as grizzly bears, wolves, and moose.
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4. Kobuk Valley National Park
Kobuk Valley National Park, 171 3rd Ave, Kotzebue, AK 99752, USA
Situated in the remote northwest corner of Alaska, Kobuk Valley National Park spans an impressive 1,750,716 acres, showcasing the vast and unparalleled beauty of the Arctic. The crown jewel of this hidden gem is the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, believed to be the largest in the Arctic, offering a surreal and ever-shifting terrain. Adventurous visitors can partake in a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to wildlife viewing, with backcountry skiing as a winter highlight.
The meandering Kobuk River invites exploration through boating and fishing while the majestic sand dunes beckon hikers, sandboarders, and those on guided tours. One of the most captivating natural spectacles is the great caribou migration, where thousands of these majestic creatures traverse the park's pristine wilderness. Despite its remote location and limited infrastructure, the unparalleled scenery and unique outdoor experiences make Kobuk Valley National Park a must-visit destination for those searching for adventure in the heart of the Arctic.
The meandering Kobuk River invites exploration through boating and fishing while the majestic sand dunes beckon hikers, sandboarders, and those on guided tours. One of the most captivating natural spectacles is the great caribou migration, where thousands of these majestic creatures traverse the park's pristine wilderness. Despite its remote location and limited infrastructure, the unparalleled scenery and unique outdoor experiences make Kobuk Valley National Park a must-visit destination for those searching for adventure in the heart of the Arctic.
5. Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan, USA
Isle Royale National Park is an underrated destination in Lake Superior and is one of the least-visited national parks in the United States, with only 28,965 visits in 2023. This untouched wilderness spans 894 square miles and is home to hundreds of small islands. You'll find a unique blend of natural wonders and historical intrigue here, with pristine landscapes, dense forests, rugged shorelines, and secluded inland lakes.
One of the park's biggest draws includes the mesmerizing Rock Harbor and the ancient forests of Isle Royale, perfect for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. The park is renowned for its excellent scuba diving sites around sunken shipwrecks in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior.
Despite its limited accessibility by seaplane or ferry, Isle Royale National Park promises a serene escape and an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility in the heart of the Great Lakes. It's worth checking out!
One of the park's biggest draws includes the mesmerizing Rock Harbor and the ancient forests of Isle Royale, perfect for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. The park is renowned for its excellent scuba diving sites around sunken shipwrecks in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior.
Despite its limited accessibility by seaplane or ferry, Isle Royale National Park promises a serene escape and an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility in the heart of the Great Lakes. It's worth checking out!
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6. Katmai National Park and Preserve
Katmai National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA
Have you ever heard of Katmai National Park and Preserve? It's a gorgeous destination that you may not have considered located in southern Alaska, and it's a must-visit. The park, over 4 million acres, boasts an array of epic landscapes, including volcanic terrain, lush forests, and coastal areas. One of the park's most unique attractions is the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, formed by the eruption of the Novarupta volcano back in 1912. It's a surreal landscape unlike anything you've ever seen before.
If you're a wildlife enthusiast or a photographer, you'll want to check out Brooks Falls. Here, you can witness the park's iconic brown bears feasting on salmon, a sight you'll cherish forever. But that's not all there is to do in Katmai National Park. You can also go hiking along scenic trails, explore rugged coastlines, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
If you're a wildlife enthusiast or a photographer, you'll want to check out Brooks Falls. Here, you can witness the park's iconic brown bears feasting on salmon, a sight you'll cherish forever. But that's not all there is to do in Katmai National Park. You can also go hiking along scenic trails, explore rugged coastlines, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
7. North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park, Washington, USA
For those yearning for some solitude, North Cascades National Park in Washington is known for its remoteness. This gem, tucked away from the crowds, spans over 500,000 acres, having alpine forests and glaciers. Just a short drive from Seattle, it's a haven for those seeking peacefulness.
Dive into the incredible turquoise hues of Diablo Lake, framed by rugged peaks, or challenge yourself with a hike along the Cascade Pass Trail. Ross Lake invites exploration by kayak, promising serene waters surrounded by nature's wonders. Wildlife lovers will be delighted by the chance encounters with mountain goats and majestic bald eagles. North Cascades National Park is a sanctuary for solitude seekers, offering an intimate connection with nature in every step and view.
Dive into the incredible turquoise hues of Diablo Lake, framed by rugged peaks, or challenge yourself with a hike along the Cascade Pass Trail. Ross Lake invites exploration by kayak, promising serene waters surrounded by nature's wonders. Wildlife lovers will be delighted by the chance encounters with mountain goats and majestic bald eagles. North Cascades National Park is a sanctuary for solitude seekers, offering an intimate connection with nature in every step and view.
8. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, Alaska, USA
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, found in the unique surroundings of Alaska, stands as the largest national park in the United States, spanning over 13 million acres. A treasure among the least-visited parks, it offers an expansive and varied landscape featuring towering mountains, vast glaciers, and picturesque valleys.
An essential stop in the park is the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark, where visitors can explore the remnants of a historic copper mining town. The park is also home to exceptional opportunities for backcountry adventures, with a network of hiking trails leading to remote and untouched locations. Nabesna Road provides access to spectacular viewpoints and wildlife observation spots, ensuring an immersive experience in this national park.
An essential stop in the park is the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark, where visitors can explore the remnants of a historic copper mining town. The park is also home to exceptional opportunities for backcountry adventures, with a network of hiking trails leading to remote and untouched locations. Nabesna Road provides access to spectacular viewpoints and wildlife observation spots, ensuring an immersive experience in this national park.
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9. Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida, USA
Dry Tortugas National Park, situated off the Florida coast, consists of seven islands enveloped by crystal-clear waters, known for both its historical and natural treasures. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the remote park offers a secluded retreat where visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs, snorkel in pristine waters, and witness diverse marine life.
A must-visit is Fort Jefferson, a colossal 19th-century coastal fortress that stands as the park's centerpiece. Loggerhead Key, another highlight, boasts a historic lighthouse and offers stunning panoramic views. With its blend of history, marine wonders, and pristine landscapes, Dry Tortugas National Park promises a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking the magic of secluded paradises.
A must-visit is Fort Jefferson, a colossal 19th-century coastal fortress that stands as the park's centerpiece. Loggerhead Key, another highlight, boasts a historic lighthouse and offers stunning panoramic views. With its blend of history, marine wonders, and pristine landscapes, Dry Tortugas National Park promises a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking the magic of secluded paradises.
10. Great Basin National Park
Great Basin National Park, Nevada, USA
Great Basin National Park is in the heart of Nevada and offers diverse terrain, including ancient bristlecone pine groves, the mesmerizing Lehman Caves, and the towering Wheeler Peak, the second-highest point in the state!
A go-to is the Bristlecone Trail, offering a memorable trek through the oldest living trees on Earth. Lehman Caves, with its intricate formations, provides a fascinating underground adventure. Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive offers breathtaking views, especially at the Wheeler Peak Overlook. And the park's remote location and dark skies make it an exceptional spot for stargazing. All in all, Great Basin National Park offers an exceptional Nevada escape that adventurous souls won't want to miss.
A go-to is the Bristlecone Trail, offering a memorable trek through the oldest living trees on Earth. Lehman Caves, with its intricate formations, provides a fascinating underground adventure. Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive offers breathtaking views, especially at the Wheeler Peak Overlook. And the park's remote location and dark skies make it an exceptional spot for stargazing. All in all, Great Basin National Park offers an exceptional Nevada escape that adventurous souls won't want to miss.
Have you been to any of the least-visited national parks? I’m lucky enough to live very close to the most visited Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but I would love to visit the Dry Tortugas National Park one day – it looks epic! How about you? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
If you’re looking for some new hiking gear to prep for your national park treks, you have to check out these top-of-the-line outdoor products. And if you’re looking for more things to do, These 16 Iconic Scenic Drives In The USA Will Fuel Your Wanderlust!
These 16 Iconic Scenic Drives In The USA Will Fuel Your Wanderlust
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