5 Unmissable and Under-Visited US National Parks

January 26, 2017

The United States is a place of strikingly different landscapes. From the golden cornfields of the Midwest to the soaring, snow-capped Rocky Mountains, it’s a country patchworked with glorious natural scenery just begging to be explored.

For travelers seeking some quiet natural spots free from the usual tourist hubbub, here are five national parks to consider visiting.

Gates of the Arctic, Alaska

Alaska is home to four of the largest national parks in the entire United States, including Gates of the Arctic. This park is not only the northernmost national park in the US, it’s also the least visited. Notable for its lack of roads, trails and infrastructure, it’s not a place for the faint-hearted or inexperienced. In fact, the park is commonly referred to as one of the world’s last areas of true wilderness – so if you are planning a trip, make sure you break in those hiking boots first.

Isle Royale, Michigan

For folks seeking a more manageable adventure that still promises quiet solitude, there’s Isle Royale National Park. Located on Lake Superior, this beautiful park can only be reached during the summer months – the hazardous water crossing means it is closed for winter. Making a trip is well worth it for the wildlife, secluded woodland walks, and stunning coastal trails. The park is also home to several camping sites, giving you the opportunity to rough it under the stars, or cozy up in a rustic cabin.

North Cascades, Washington

Travel to the northwestern coast of the United States and you can visit one of the most serene and visually stunning national parks in the country. For whatever reason, North Cascades also happens to be one of America’s least visited parks, meaning it’s the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Though undeveloped, this vast area of mountains, glaciers, lakes and ancient woodland boasts plenty of walking trails and opportunities for boating and fishing.

Dry Tortugas, Florida

National parks aren’t all about snow, rugged scenery and chilly weather – in fact, one of the most underrated parks in the whole of the USA is in Florida. Dry Tortugas National Park is comprised of seven different islands and the protected coral reefs located in the surrounding waters. Not only does it house the 19th-century Fort Jefferson (a boon for visiting history buffs), it’s also the perfect location for scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking and sunbathing.

Guadalupe Mountains, Texas

Another hot and sunny national park can be found in the Chihuahuan Desert in Texas. Containing the state’s highest peak, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is situated just east of El Paso, and is famous for its canyons, prairies and abundant wildlife. The park is beautiful year-round but particularly special during the fall, when the maple trees lining McKittrick Canyon come alive with color.

If our list has inspired you to visit one of America’s beautiful parks, don’t forget to browse our products before setting off. Our luxury compression socks are a must-have for long-haul flights and walking trips of all kinds. Find out more, and get tips on travel, food and music by subscribing to our newsletter.