Acient cliff dwellings, protected sea forts and the world’s fourth-longest cave system, the US has got some amazing parks beyond the big, notable ones. They each are spectacular in their own way–natural beauty, amazing views, natural formations and wildlife. Here are 10 of the parks that are flying fabulously under the radar. So, whether your doing a road trip across the USA or simply visiting one or two, these national parks are sure to leave you in pure awe.
This is a must see. The Sequoia National Park in Northern California is famous for its giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman tree, one of the largest trees on Earth. Among the awaiting wonders are the world’s largest trees, the giant sequoia, which grow up to 85m, and the highest mountain outside Alaska, 4421m Mt Whitney.
The Gates of the Arctic is no place for casual tourists. There are no roads, trails or visitor facilities within the park, and the only recognized visitor centre lies off the Dalton Highway near the town of Coldfoot. With wild rivers, hungry grizzlies and the imposing Brooks Mountains, you’d better know how to survive in the wild.
Often ignored in favor of the more accessible Zion and Grand Canyons, Bryce’s masterpiece is its eponymous amphitheater.
With black-sand beaches, ancient lava tubes and pyroclastic flows waiting to be discovered, this is one national park that could be too hot to handle.
Primary attractions are the striking cliff dwellings of the Pueblo people, built in the 13th century and rising over four stories throughout a series of dramatic canyons.
This park throws up extreme climatic conditions, from the baking deserts and plunging canyons alongside the Rio Grande, to the cooler heights of the Chisos Mountains.
This park throws up extreme climatic conditions, from the baking deserts and plunging canyons alongside the Rio Grande, to the cooler heights of the Chisos Mountains.
You can’t go to Wind Cave National Park and not explore this underground wonderland. But, above ground you can camp at nearby Elk Mountain, on the doorstep of mixed grass prairies and ponderosa forests that are home to native bison, elk and pronghorn antelope.
