11 Bucket List National Parks That Are Surprisingly Underrated

By
Akanksha Sharma
April 1, 2025

When it comes to national parks, names like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon often steal the spotlight. However, the United States is home to a treasure trove of lesser-known parks that offer equally breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences. These underrated national parks provide an opportunity to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of nature. From rugged coastlines to expansive deserts, these hidden gems promise adventures that are as diverse as they are unforgettable. Here, we have compiled a list of the best underrated national parks that totally deserve a spot on your travel bucket list. Let's begin!

1. North Cascades National Park

Man hiking on the Sahale Arm, North Cascades National Park, Washington, USA. Photo Credit: Envato @Image-Source

Nestled in the northern reaches of Washington State, North Cascades National Park is a haven for mountaineers and nature lovers alike. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, this park boasts over 300 glaciers, making it one of the most glaciated areas in the contiguous United States. The rugged terrain is a testament to the power of nature, with jagged peaks and deep valleys carved by ancient ice flows. Visitors can explore numerous trails that wind through dense forests, alpine meadows, and alongside crystal-clear rivers. The park is also a biodiversity hotspot, home to a rich array of wildlife including black bears, mountain goats, and the elusive gray wolf. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting species such as the bald eagle and the peregrine falcon soaring above the park's towering peaks. For those seeking a more immersive experience, backcountry camping offers a chance to connect with nature in its purest form. As you traverse the park's varied landscapes, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of ecosystems that thrive in this remote wilderness.

2. Congaree National Park

Creek lined with trees. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @BMacZeroBot

Located in South Carolina, Congaree National Park is a hidden gem that offers a unique glimpse into an ancient floodplain forest. Unlike any other park in the United States, Congaree is home to some of the tallest trees in the eastern U.S., with loblolly pines and bald cypresses reaching impressive heights. The park's diverse ecosystem is sustained by the periodic flooding of the Congaree River, which nourishes the rich soil and supports a wide variety of plant and animal life. Visitors can explore the park's lush landscapes via a network of boardwalks and trails that meander through the forest. Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities, allowing adventurers to navigate the park's waterways and experience the tranquility of the forest from a different perspective. Birdwatchers will find an abundance of species to observe, including the colorful prothonotary warbler and the majestic barred owl. Congaree's serene beauty and unique ecosystem make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful, understated retreat.

3. Great Basin National Park

From the 13,000-foot summit of Wheeler Peak, to the sage-covered foothills, Great Basin National Park is a place to sample the stunning diversity of the larger Great Basin region. Come and partake of the solitude of the wilderness, walk among ancient bris. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @National Park Service

Tucked away in eastern Nevada, Great Basin National Park is a hidden treasure that offers a stark contrast to the bustling casinos of Las Vegas. Known for its dark skies and stunning stargazing opportunities, the park is a haven for astronomers and night sky enthusiasts. The lack of light pollution allows for unparalleled views of the Milky Way, and the park hosts regular astronomy programs and events for visitors to learn more about the cosmos. During the day, the park's diverse landscapes beckon explorers with opportunities for hiking, caving, and wildlife watching. The ancient Bristlecone Pines—some of which are over 4,000 years old—stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time. The Lehman Caves, with their intricate formations, offer a glimpse into the subterranean wonders that lie beneath the park's surface. Whether you're gazing at the stars or exploring the park's rugged terrain, Great Basin National Park promises an unforgettable adventure.

4. Isle Royale National Park

The rugged shoreline of Isle Royale National Park, as seen from the Rock Harbor docks. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @Tony Webster

Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Isle Royale National Park in Michigan offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. This remote island in Lake Superior is a haven for solitude seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park's rugged landscapes, dense forests, and pristine lakes provide the perfect backdrop for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. With no cars allowed on the island, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. One of the park's most unique features is its population of wolves and moose, which have been the subject of one of the longest-running predator-prey studies in the world. This ongoing research provides valuable insights into the dynamics of natural ecosystems and the delicate balance between species. Whether you're exploring the island's scenic trails or paddling along its rocky shores, Isle Royale offers a chance to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with nature.

5. Dry Tortugas National Park

A military fort that has been abandoned and now is home to sea life and birds. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @RATHERBAKEWELL

Located 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, Dry Tortugas National Park is a hidden paradise that offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The park is home to Fort Jefferson, a massive coastal fortress that dates back to the 19th century. Visitors can explore the fort's historic architecture and learn about its role in American history. The park's remote location and pristine coral reefs make it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the Dry Tortugas are teeming with marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral formations. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to see, with the park serving as a vital stopover for migratory birds. Whether you're exploring the fort's storied past or diving into the vibrant underwater world, Dry Tortugas National Park offers a maritime adventure like no other.

6. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @National Park Service Digital Image Archives

Situated in West Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a hidden gem that offers a diverse array of landscapes and outdoor activities. The park is home to the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert. Hikers can explore a variety of trails that wind through the park's rugged canyons, lush woodlands, and expansive desert plains. The park's unique geology is a testament to its ancient past, with fossilized reef formations dating back over 250 million years. This rich history is on display at the McKittrick Canyon Visitor Center, where visitors can learn about the park's geological and cultural heritage. Whether you're scaling the heights of Guadalupe Peak or exploring the park's hidden canyons, Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers an unforgettable desert adventure.

7. Lassen Volcanic National Park

View of Cinder Cone, Lassen Volcanic National Park, California, from the Cinder Cone Trail that leads to it. The trees surrounding the volcano, are Jeffrey Pines Pinus jeffreyi.Français : Cinder Cone dans le parc national volcanique de Lassen en. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @DimiTalen

Located in Northern California, Lassen Volcanic National Park is a geothermal wonderland that offers a glimpse into the dynamic forces that shape our planet. The park is home to all four types of volcanoes found in the world, making it a unique destination for geology enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the park's volcanic landscapes, including the iconic Lassen Peak, which last erupted in 1915. The park's geothermal features are a highlight for many visitors, with bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and hot springs providing a fascinating look at the Earth's geothermal activity. Hiking trails wind through the park's diverse landscapes, offering opportunities to explore lush forests, alpine meadows, and volcanic craters. Whether you're marveling at the park's geothermal wonders or hiking its scenic trails, Lassen Volcanic National Park promises a captivating adventure.

8. Voyageurs National Park

Nearly 200 years ago voyageurs paddled birch bark canoes full of animal pelts and trade goods through this area on their way to Lake Athabaska, Canada. Today, people explore the park by houseboat, motorboat, canoe and kayak. Voyageurs is a water-based par. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @National Park Service Digital Image Archives

Nestled in the northern reaches of Minnesota, Voyageurs National Park is a water-based wonderland that offers a unique blend of wilderness and waterways. The park's interconnected lakes and rivers provide endless opportunities for boating, kayaking, and canoeing. With over 500 islands and 655 miles of shoreline, visitors can explore the park's pristine waters and discover hidden coves and secluded beaches. The park's rich history is intertwined with the fur trade, and visitors can learn about the area's cultural heritage at the Rainy Lake Visitor Center. The park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, wolves, and bald eagles. Whether you're paddling through the park's scenic waterways or exploring its lush forests, Voyageurs National Park offers a unique and immersive outdoor adventure.

9. Pinnacles National Park

Rising out of the chaparral-covered Gabilan Mountains, east of central California's Salinas Valley, are the spectacular remains of an ancient volcano. Massive monoliths, spires, sheer-walled canyons and talus passages define millions of years of erosion. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @National Park Service Digital Image Archives

Located in central California, Pinnacles National Park is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of rock formations and diverse ecosystems. The park's towering pinnacles and spires are a haven for rock climbers, with routes ranging from beginner to expert. Hikers can explore a network of trails that wind through the park's rugged landscapes, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and hills. One of the park's most unique features is its population of California condors, which were reintroduced to the park as part of a conservation effort. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting these majestic birds soaring above the park's rocky peaks. Whether you're scaling the heights of the park's iconic pinnacles or observing its diverse wildlife, Pinnacles National Park offers an adventure like no other.

10. Big Bend National Park

Hike in Big Bend. Photo Credit: Envato @Galyna_Andrushko

Situated in the remote reaches of West Texas, Big Bend National Park is a desert symphony that offers a diverse array of landscapes and outdoor activities. The park's rugged terrain, expansive deserts, and towering mountains provide the perfect backdrop for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Visitors can explore a variety of trails that wind through the park's diverse ecosystems, offering opportunities to discover hidden canyons, lush oases, and ancient rock formations. The park's unique location along the Rio Grande River offers opportunities for rafting and kayaking, with stunning views of the surrounding desert landscapes. The park is also home to a rich array of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and a variety of bird species. Whether you're exploring the park's scenic trails or navigating its winding waterways, Big Bend National Park promises an unforgettable desert adventure.

11. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

Scenic view of Root Glacier, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, Alaska, USA. Photo Credit: Envato @wirestock

As the largest national park in the United States, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska offers a vast wilderness that is truly awe-inspiring. The park's towering mountains, expansive glaciers, and pristine rivers provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Visitors can explore a variety of landscapes, from the rugged peaks of the Wrangell Mountains to the lush valleys of the Copper River Basin. The park's remote location and diverse ecosystems make it a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot grizzly bears, moose, and caribou. Adventurers can explore the park's backcountry on foot, by kayak, or even by air, with flight-seeing tours offering stunning aerial views of the park's breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're exploring the park's rugged terrain or observing its diverse wildlife, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offers an adventure like no other.

As we conclude this journey through America's best underrated national parks, it's clear that these hidden gems offer a wealth of adventure and exploration for their visitors. Each park, with its unique landscapes and ecosystems, provides a chance to connect with nature in its purest form. Whether you're seeking solitude in the remote wilderness of Isle Royale or marveling at the geothermal wonders of Lassen Volcanic National Park, these parks promise unforgettable experiences that will leave a lasting impression. These underrated national parks are more than just destinations; they are gateways to understanding the natural world and our place within it. As you plan your next adventure, consider adding these parks to your bucket list and embark on a journey that will inspire, challenge, and rejuvenate your spirit!

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Akanksha Sharma
I’m an editor working at the intersection of business, creativity, and thought leadership, shaping complex ideas into clear, impactful content. With a sharp editorial eye and a strategic mindset, I refine narratives that resonate, collaborate with industry leaders, and align storytelling with business goals. Balancing analytical precision with creative depth, I craft content that informs, inspires, and drives influence.

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