21 Underrated National Parks for Avoiding Summer Crowds

By

Akanksha Sharma

November 7, 2025

15. Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve (Colorado): High Altitude, Fewer People

Great Sand Dunes. Photo Credit: Envato @Galyna_Andrushko

Yes, it gets busy near the Medano Creek flow in early summer, but the sheer scale of North America’s tallest dunes allows visitors to easily disperse and find solitude. Hike further out onto the vast dunefield for incredible views and quiet contemplation under the Colorado sun. Higher elevation means slightly cooler temperatures than lower desert parks. Plus, summer nights here offer phenomenal stargazing in this International Dark Sky Park. Sandboarding down the slopes provides unique summer fun away from typical mountain destinations.

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