Here Are 6 National Parks to Enjoy Without the Crowds.
April 4th, 2009 by CJ Lomez, under Travel and Leisure. No Comments
So, you’re planning an outing with the family this summer and you’ve chosen to tour some of the best national parks the United States and Canada have to offer. However, you cringe at the thought of the crowds you are about to encounter and the accompanying lack of privacy. Don’t despair. If solitude is your thing, these six parks may just be the answer:
1. Arches National Park. Not as well-known as its sister parks, Bryce Canyon and Zion, this southern Utah beauty boasts endless sandstone arches. Hiking is a favorite activity at Arches because of the landscape. Be sure to check out Landscape Arch, the largest in the park, as well as Delicate Arch.
2. Badlands National Park. What makes this park so unique has to be the terrain. At one point, you’ll notice the grassy prairies. Yet not far away, you see numerous canyons and buttes. There’s no shortage of wildlife to see, as you’re sure to spot bison, bighorn sheep, coyotes, and rabbits, among others.
3. Big Bend. Located on more than 800,000 acres of west Texas land, Big Bend was named for the enormous bend in the Rio Grande River. Speaking of which, if you visit, you’ll want to raft the river for an experience no amusement park thrill ride can match. This is the perfect place for water enthusiasts, who can canoe and kayak in addition to the rafting experience.
4. Biscayne. Primarily accessible by boat only, Biscayne National Park is located about 20+ miles from Miami as part of a coral reef. Anyone with a love of marine life will feel right at home viewing the many varieties of fish, turtles, stingrays and more in the crystal clear waters. Many of the keys that make up the park are perfect for fishing, camping, and hiking.
5. Cape Breton Highlands. This is one of the more versatile parks you’re likely to ever encounter. Apart from its stunning views of coastlines, highlands, and plateaus, Cape Breton offers a little something for everyone. Whether you want to hike, play on the beach, or even ski, you can do it all here. Interestingly enough, Cape Breton was once home to Alexander Graham Bell who once said there wasn’t a place anywhere more beautiful.
6. Congaree. This South Caroline gem is considered the oldest floodplain forest in North America. It boasts of 75 species of trees and a variety of animals which can be viewed from just about anywhere in the park. It’s also one of the youngest, earning its place as a national park in 2003.
So if you’re looking to experience the excitement of camping without the headache associated with large crowds, these places are for you. These six lesser-known gems will provide you with hours of enjoyment, not to mention memories that will last forever.
