The United States is home to some of the world’s most famous outdoors sites, and for good reason! With 63 national parks scattered across the country, America has some of the most diverse and breathtaking landscapes on earth. Many flock to the well-trodden paths of Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, and Yellowstone each year but there’s a trove of lesser known, yet equally majestic national parks waiting to be explored. Come, let’s venture off the beaten track and visit some of the USA’s hidden gems.
1. North Cascades National Park, Washington
One can’t help but marvel at the wild beauty of North Cascades National Park. Located in the state of Washington, this rugged gem is teeming with over 300 glaciers (the most of any U.S. park outside Alaska), pristine bodies of water, alpine meadows, and a staggering range of wildlife.
What to do:
* Embark on water-based activities on the park’s various lakes and rivers. Rent a boat and enjoy an early morning fishing session on Ross Lake, or raft down Skagit River.
* Explore the hiking trails varying from comfortable strolls to more challenging climbs, soaking in the awe-inspiring views of jagged peaks and serene forest landscapes.
2. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
Enter a world surreal yet captivating with South Carolina’s Congaree National Park. This lesser-known treasure houses the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States.
What to do:
* Traverse on foot or by paddle to experience the park’s champion trees standing tall, the tranquillity of Cedar Creek, and the diverse wildlife including river otters, bobcats, and even the occasional black bear.
* Participate in the Owl Prowl, a popular guided night tour that lets you explore the wilderness under the stars while observing the park’s nocturnal residents.
3. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
If solitude and rugged beauty are what you seek, Isle Royale National Park is your paradise. Located in the middle of Lake Superior, getting to this secluded island park already feels like an adventure itself.
What to do:
* Scuba dive around the 10 major shipwrecks scattered around the island. The surrounding waters hold some of the most durable preserved shipwrecks in the world.
* Experience backpacking at its finest with the 40-mile Greenstone Ridge Trail that stretches across the length of the island, offering panoramic views of Lake Superior and untouched wilderness.
4. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
Nestled in West Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park remains a true hidden gem. The park offers one of the most uniquely preserved landscapes in the country, comprising the world’s largest Permian fossil reef.
What to do:
* Conquer the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak, standing at 8,751 feet for sweeping views of the untouched wilderness.
* Explore the McKittrick Canyon’s vibrant foliage, which peaks in early November, offering a stunning display of reds, yellows, and oranges.
With less crowd offering a true sense of solitude, these lesser-known national parks reward those who venture off the typical path. Each has its own distinctive charm presenting untouched wilderness, diverse ecosystems, and rich wildlife, waiting to be explored. So the next time you’re yearning for an outdoor adventure, consider these hidden gems and discover a closer communion with nature, off the beaten track!
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