Intrepid spotlights America's quietest national parks

June 2026

New research reveals that American's are seeking less crowded, more meaningful outdoor experiences.

As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, new research reveals that travelers are increasingly looking beyond the country's most famous national parks in search of quieter, more authentic outdoor experiences.

According to a survey commissioned by Intrepid Travel, nearly two-thirds (65%) of Americans say a less crowded national park would provide a more rewarding experience than a notable park, while 72% believe overcrowding diminishes the travel experience. The findings come as visitation continues to surge at marquee parks such as Yosemite, Glacier and Arches, fueling conversations around overtourism and sustainable visitation.

Among American respondents, the survey also found:

• 92% would consider changing their travel behavior to help reduce overtourism.
• 80% want to visit destinations they don't regularly see on social media.
• 57% actively prioritise off-the-beaten-path travel experiences.
• 50% cite peace, quiet and time in nature as primary motivations for visiting national parks.

To help travellers discover alternatives to America's busiest parks, Intrepid Travel and Wildland Trekking are highlighting a collection of lesser-known parks and protected landscapes that offer extraordinary scenery, wildlife and outdoor recreation with fewer crowds.

"America's 250th anniversary is a chance to celebrate the country's natural heritage in a more thoughtful way," said Leigh Barnes, President of the Americas at Intrepid Travel. "Many travellers assume they need to visit the most famous parks to experience the best of America's public lands, but some of the most rewarding experiences can be found in places that remain surprisingly overlooked."

Among the parks highlighted are:

North Cascades National Park, Washington
Often referred to as the "American Alps," North Cascades receives only a fraction of the visitors seen at many western national parks despite boasting dramatic mountain peaks, glaciers and alpine lakes.

Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Featuring bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles and volcanic landscapes comparable to Yellowstone, Lassen remains one of the most underrated parks in the National Park System.

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Frequently overshadowed by Zion and Arches, Capitol Reef offers towering cliffs, colorful canyons and some of Utah's most spectacular desert scenery.

Canyonlands National Park, Utah
With vast landscapes and significantly lower visitor density than neighboring Arches, Canyonlands – Utah's largest national park – provides opportunities for solitude and exploration.

Kings Canyon National Park, California
Home to giant sequoias and stunning High Sierra landscapes, Kings Canyon offers many of the experiences travelers seek in Yosemite with far fewer visitors.

Denali National Park, Alaska
One of America's great wilderness destinations, Denali embodies the vastness, solitude and natural beauty many travelers increasingly seek.

"Travellers are telling us they want experiences that feel more personal, less crowded and more connected to nature," said Barnes. "The good news is that there are incredible parks and monuments across the country where visitors can still find that sense of discovery."

Highlighting overlooked parks is part of a broader effort to encourage responsible travel during America's 250th anniversary year by promoting visitation to lesser-known public lands while educating travellers on ways to reduce pressure on heavily visited destinations.

Experts from Intrepid Travel and Wildland Trekking recommend travelers:

• Explore lesser-known parks and regions.
• Travel during shoulder seasons and avoid weekends when possible.
• Follow Leave No Trace principles.
• Support local communities and businesses.
• Research less crowded trails and areas within the parks.

As travellers begin planning for and participating in America250 celebrations, the findings suggest many are ready to embrace a different approach to exploring the country's public lands; one that prioritizes discovery, stewardship and a deeper connection with place.

For more information and to explore featured itineraries and destinations, visit US National Parks Tours & Vacations 2026/2027 and Wildland Trekking Hiking Tours.