- I’ve visited every national park in the US and a few have stood out to me as underrated favorites.
- Alaska’s Gates of the Arctic National Park has some of the most beautiful views.
- Kings Canyon is incredible but sometimes overshadowed by other national parks in California.
The 63 Congress-designated national parks have been touted as “America’s best idea” — and with their mile-deep canyons, 3,000-year-old trees, and stunning mountain ranges, it’s easy to see why.
However, with great beauty often comes great crowds. Many top-rated national parks routinely make headlines for their confusing timed-entry reservation systems, long lines of cars, and overrun trails.
I’ve experienced it firsthand, as I’ve been to every national park in the United States and authored a book about them. I’m here to tell you that Yosemite is beautiful, but a visit is usually not worth the summertime traffic.
This year, I suggest you skip the more famous national parks in favor of these six underrated gems.
