The Most Underrated US National Parks
Hey guys, and welcome to another episode of Kabir Considers. In this article, we’re going to take a look at the most underrated US National Parks. The United States is home to some of the largest and most diverse National Parks in the world, such as Yellowstone and Yosemite. However, there are many smaller, lesser-known parks that are just as interesting and beautiful. We’ll be exploring these hidden gems that don’t get as much attention as their more popular counterparts. So, without further ado, let’s dive in.
Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Petrified Forest National Park is a unique destination that’s definitely worth your time. The park covers approximately 370 square miles and is home to an abundance of fossilized trees, dating back approximately 225 million years. The landscape is further beautified by striking rock formations known as “the tepees,” named for their striking bands of color.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
The state of Hawaii is a sought-after destination for many tourists, but many visitors don’t realize the incredible experiences that Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has to offer. The park is home to Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, as well as Mauna Loa, the largest volcano of its kind. The landscape is unique due to its long history of volcanic activity, making it a surreal and unforgettable experience.
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
For a truly unique experience, look no further than Dry Tortugas National Park. The park encompasses Fort Jefferson and the seven Dry Tortugas islands and can only be accessed by boat or seaplane, giving it an exclusive appeal. The fort itself, used as a prison during the Civil War, is among the largest brick masonry buildings in the world and continues to impress visitors to this day.
White Sands National Monument, New Mexico
White Sands National Monument is a breathtaking landscape that looks straight out of a dream. The dune field covers about 275 square miles and is made up of gypsum crystals, giving the dunes their distinctive coloring and texture. Spending a night under the stars in this incomparable environment is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t want to miss.
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Idaho
Idaho’s Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is a testament to the power of volcanic activity. The extraterrestrial appearance of the park is a result of volcanic activity that began some 15 million years ago. The park offers excellent hiking trails and a variety of natural attractions, including lava caves that visitors can explore.
Great Basin National Park, Nevada
Great Basin National Park is an underrated gem that rivals the likes of Yosemite and Zion in terms of natural beauty. Within the park’s boundaries, you’ll find glaciers, breathtaking mountain vistas, pristine lakes, and some of the world’s oldest trees – the bristlecone pines. The park also offers excellent stargazing opportunities due to its extremely low pollution levels and lack of population.
Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
Home to the world’s largest cave system, Mammoth Cave National Park is an extraordinary experience waiting to be discovered. The park offers a variety of guided tours to accommodate different interests and levels of bravery. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, paraffin lamp tours illuminate the mysterious depths of the caves and offer a sense of enchantment reminiscent of a high fantasy novel.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado
Colorado’s Great Sand Dunes National Park is a surprising and unique landscape that will undoubtedly make an impression. The park is home to North America’s tallest sand dunes, reaching up to 700 feet in height. Visitors can enjoy sand sledding, hiking, and horseback riding through this exceptional landscape, followed by a night spent stargazing under Colorado’s clear skies.
In conclusion, the United States is home to an incredible array of National Parks that go beyond the well-known destinations like Yellowstone and Yosemite. These underrated gems offer unique experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable memories. So make sure to add these lesser-known parks to your travel bucket list and discover the beauty they have to offer.