Hi Reader,

If the idea of bumper-to-bumper traffic in Yellowstone or packed shuttle lines in Zion sounds less than relaxing, you’re not alone. The good news? There are still incredible national parks where you can enjoy beautiful scenery, outdoor adventures, and room to breathe during summer vacation.

Here are five of our favorite national parks that tend to be a little less crowded, plus where we recommend staying nearby.

🌲 North Cascades National Park, Washington

Often called the “American Alps,” North Cascades offers glacier views, alpine lakes, and scenic drives without the massive crowds you’ll find at more famous parks.

Stay nearby in Winthrop for a charming Old West-style town experience, or book a lakeside stay near Diablo Lake for easy park access.

Great Basin National Park, Nevada

​This underrated park is home to ancient bristlecone pines, Lehman Caves, and some of the darkest night skies in the country for stargazing.

Stay in Baker, Nevada, for simple access to the park, or combine it with a road trip through Utah’s national parks.

🌊 Isle Royale National Park, Michigan

Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Isle Royale feels wonderfully remote and is ideal for adventurous families with older kids or groups who love hiking and kayaking.

Most visitors stay in Rock Harbor Lodge or camp inside the park, but many also spend time exploring Michigan’s Upper Peninsula before or after the trip.

Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

​Lassen has those Yellowstone-style geothermal features, but with dramatically fewer visitors.

Stay in nearby Chester for cabin rentals and lake access, or use Redding as a home base if you want more hotel and dining options.

🌵 Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

While travelers flock to Zion and Arches, Capitol Reef offers stunning red rock landscapes, scenic drives, orchards, and excellent hiking with a much more relaxed atmosphere.

Stay in Torrey, Utah for beautiful lodges, glamping options, and easy access to the park entrance.

A few things we always pack for national park trips:

• ​An Osprey daypack​
• ​A CamelBak hydration pack​
• Lightweight layers
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• ​America the Beautiful annual park pass from National Park Service​

Sometimes the best trips are the ones where you can slow down, find a quiet trail, and truly soak in the scenery. These parks tick all the boxes.

Happy adventuring,
Kirsten