Top 12 Underrated National Parks to Visit in 2026

National parks attract millions each year, but some gems stay quieter while offering dramatic landscapes and immersive experiences. For 2026, we curated a list of 12 underrated parks worth exploring, emphasizing diversity of terrain and visitor impact mitigation.

How we chose them

Criteria included: unique ecosystems, low visitor density compared to fame, year-round appeal, and opportunities for responsible experiences. We also considered parks that are investing in community-led conservation and offering new visitor programs.

1. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (Colorado, USA)

Steep, narrow gorges carved by the Gunnison River create dramatic cliffs and quiet hiking. Ideal for photographers and those seeking vertical landscapes without the crowds of more famous parks.

2. Great Basin National Park (Nevada, USA)

A dark-sky paradise with ancient bristlecone pines and expansive limestone caves. Its quiet highways and alpine trails reward patient visitors.

3. Channel Islands National Park (California, USA)

Accessible by boat, the islands host endemic species and offer snorkeling, kayaking, and cultural history tied to coastal indigenous communities.

4. Isle Royale National Park (Michigan, USA)

Remote island wilderness in Lake Superior — ideal for multi-day paddling and observing wolves and moose within a fragile, isolated ecosystem.

5. North Cascades National Park (Washington, USA)

Often overshadowed by neighboring parks, this rugged range features jade lakes, glaciers, and alpine terrain. Visit late summer for wildflowers with fewer visitors.

6. Dry Tortugas National Park (Florida, USA)

Seventy miles offshore, Dry Tortugas combines marine life with historical forts. It’s a short-flight or boat trip away and offers world-class snorkeling and birding.

7. Guadalupe Mountains National Park (Texas, USA)

Old Permian reef formations and high-elevation trails make this park a geological treasure. The Rim Trail offers panoramic views and solitude.

8. Voyageurs National Park (Minnesota, USA)

Water-based travel is the norm here; consider renting a canoe or boat. The park’s interlocking lakes and boreal forests are a haven for anglers and stargazers.

9. Congaree National Park (South Carolina, USA)

A bottomland hardwood forest with an old-growth canopy and boardwalk trails. It’s a unique subtropical experience rich in biodiversity.

10. Wind Cave National Park (South Dakota, USA)

One of the world’s longest caves with rare boxwork formations. Surface prairie ecosystems also support bison and elk — great for wildlife enthusiasts.

11. Sarek National Park (Sweden)

A European suggestion for intrepid trekkers: free-roaming wilderness with glaciers and mountain valleys. Note that services are minimal and the terrain is rugged.

12. Western Tatra National Park (Poland/Slovakia)

Alpine meadows, jagged peaks, and cultural mountain towns make the Western Tatras an accessible European alpine alternative to overcrowded ranges.

Practical tips for visiting lesser-known parks

• Plan for limited services: Many underrated parks have minimal on-site facilities. Carry essentials and know your route.
• Respect local rules: Fragile ecosystems require adherence to trail restrictions and seasonal closures.
• Hire local guides: They enhance safety and contribute to regional economies.
• Book early for access: Boat or charter-based parks often sell out; reserve transport and permits in advance.

Why choose quieter parks?

Underrated parks allow for deeper observation: you’ll notice small ecological interactions, enjoy more solitude, and leave a smaller footprint. They also often reflect local conservation successes that deserve attention and support.

Ethical considerations

Visit with conservation in mind. Avoid creating new trails, do not feed wildlife, and follow leave-no-trace principles. Consider donating or volunteering with park programs that support habitat restoration.

Final notes

In 2026, pick at least one park from this list and experience the kind of quiet wonder that’s increasingly rare in crowded destinations. These places reward those who come prepared to listen, learn, and tread lightly.