Achieve Tranquility in National Parks: Dodge the Crowds Like a Pro!
Strategies to Experience National Parks Peacefully, Evading Mass Gatherings
Struggling to find some quiet amidst the hustle and bustle of popular national parks? You're not the only one! If you've ever felt more like you were at Disneyland instead of in a peaceful wilderness, read on! We've got 14 tricks up our sleeves to help you dodge the crowds and experience these national treasures just as they were meant to be - tranquil, wild, and awe-inspiring.
14 Ways to Navigate the Crowds: Your Ultimate Guide
1. Midweek and Off-Season Trips
Most folks head to national parks on weekends or during school breaks. But did you know that visiting during the week or in the off-season can make a huge difference? Be thankful for those crowded lines and overflowing parking lots. With fewer visitors, you'll enjoy more parking, no lines, and quiet trails. Some parks even loosen their shuttle system and reservation rules, giving you more freedom to explore.
A case in point, we once hiked Avalanche Lake in late spring on a chilly rainy day. Those white cliffs and empty trails made for an unforgettable experience - one you can only catch during the off-season!
2. Discover Hidden Gems
Think you're in Glacier National Park or Rocky Mountain National Park? Think again! You might just be in North Cascades National Park, boasting only 40,000 visitors compared to over 4 million for the other two parks. The mountains are just as breathtaking, the lakes just as blue, minus the crowds.
There are hidden gems like this all over the country, waiting to be explored!
3. Visit nearby alternatives
Ever heard of Dead Horse Point State Park? Probably not! It's located right outside Moab and offers the same red rock views, dramatic canyons, and, you guessed it, less crowds! Every major national park has nearby public lands - state parks, national forests, BLM lands - with captivating landscapes that have somehow managed to stay under the radar.
4. Pack smart and explore more
Preparation is key when it comes to finding peace and quiet amidst the crowds. Download maps before you go using apps like OnX and AllTrails. Bring food, water, sunblock, bug spray, and other essentials to avoid spending time in crowded restaurants and gift shops. See fewer people and experience more of the park!
5. Wake up and go early
Remember the saying, "The early bird catches the worm"? It's especially true in national parks. Start your day at sunrise to beat the "tourons" or Jerrys, as they like to be called. It's cooler, quieter, and easier to find parking - and best of all, you'll get more time to enjoy the adventure!
6. Skip the Popular Spots
Following the well-trodden path is tempting, but it leads to crowded areas fast. Instead, look for lesser-known trails and overlooks. Skip the top three hikes listed on the park map and explore the less-reviewed trails for those unique experiences you won't find on Instagram.
7. Use less popular entrances
Most people enter parks through the main gate, where all the shops, restaurants, and amenities are. But did you know there are lesser-used entrances that lead to the same breathtaking views without the traffic jams? A little research upfront goes a long way!
8. Stay outside the national park
Who wants to hear crying babies and campers blaring music late into the night? If you prefer the sounds of crickets and a crackling campfire, stay nearby in a state park, national forest, or even a cabin on VRBO. These options have fewer crowds, more peace, and the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature.
9. Hike longer trails
Most park visitors stick to paved roads and the most well-known trails. To avoid the crowds, get off the beaten path. Try going on longer hikes - at least six miles - or opt for lesser-known routes to enjoy a more serene experience. Use apps like AllTrails to find quiet, less-trafficked trails.
10. Plan ahead
Nothing ruins a good time quicker than showing up unprepared. Many parks require timed entry, parking permits, or backcountry reservations, especially during peak season. Do your research, check the park's website, and prepare ahead of time to avoid stress and make the most of your trip!
11. Take advantage of timed entry
Although timed entry can feel like a hassle, it can actually work to your advantage. Get in before the gates are staffed, go later in the day, or use the reservation system to your advantage. Watch for open slots, and take those as a sign that fewer people are planning to visit.
12. Avoid visitor centers during peak hours
Visitor centers can be crowded, noisy, and full of long lines. Buy souvenirs or t-shirts online before your trip or find alternatives, like Etsy. If you must visit the center, show up early or just before closing to save time.
13. Chat with park rangers
Have a conversation with the park rangers outside the info desk, ask them about their favorite trails or hidden spots. Rangers are the locals of the national parks and can provide you with valuable, firsthand advice.
14. Go backpacking
Backpacking is the ultimate way to experience national parks in their rawest form. With fewer people venturing off the beaten path (because it takes more effort!), backpacking allows you to access the quietest, wildest parts of the park. Apply for permits, gather gear, and prepare for a memorable adventure.
Thanks for sticking with us through this guide! Now, get out there and find your peace amidst the throngs of visitors, because the wilderness is waiting for you!
Pro Tip: Don't rely on AI like ChatGPT to plan your adventures. Do your research and enjoy the experience for yourself!
Resources
- Beech, L. (2019, October 10). How to Avoid the Crowds at National Parks. Reader's Digest. Retrieved March 27, 2023, from https://www.rd.com/list/avoid-crowds-national-parks/
- Calvo, T. M. (2020, June 26). 10 lesser-known national parks you need to visit. USA TODAY. Retrieved March 27, 2023, from https://eu.usatoday.com/story/travel/destinations/2020/06/26/these-lesser-known-national-parks-are-americas-greatest-secrets/3193640001/
- Lester, B. (2022, July 23). The Best (and Worse) Times to Visit 6 of America’s Most Popular National Parks. Outside Online. Retrieved March 27, 2023, from https://www.outsideonline.com/2404995/best-worst-times-visit-americas-popular-national-parks
- Mercer, R. (2021, February 12). America’s Best Underrated National Parks. Condé Nast Traveler. Retrieved March 27, 2023, from https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/americas-best-underrated-national-parks
- O'Leary, Z. (2021, July 14). How to Find Crowded and Less Popular Hikes for an Epic Getaway. Outside Online. Retrieved March 27, 2023, from https://www.outsideonline.com/2457621/how-to-find-crowded-and-less-popular-hikes-for-an-epic-getaway
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- To experience peace and tranquility in national parks, consider visiting during midweek or off-season, as most crowds flock to these parks during weekends and school breaks.
- Hidden gems like North Cascades National Park, with fewer visitors, offer breathtaking landscapes similar to more popular parks.
- Dead Horse Point State Park near Moab offers red rock views, canyons, and less crowds as an alternative to major national parks.
- Pack essentials like maps, food, water, sunblock, and bug spray before setting out on your adventure to save time in crowded restaurants and shops.
- Waking up early to start your day at sunrise can help you beat the crowds, navigate quieter trails, and enjoy more of the park.
- Skipping popular spots and seeking out lesser-known trails can lead to unique experiences that aren't featured on Instagram.
- Using lesser-used park entrances can help you avoid traffic jams and discover quieter areas within the park.
- Staying outside national parks in state parks, national forests, or rentals can provide a quieter environment for a more immersive nature experience.
- Hiking longer trails (at least six miles) allows you to explore more remote and quiet areas.
- Planning ahead by researching park rules, requirements, and popular spots can help you make the most of your trip and avoid last-minute stress.
- Taking advantage of timed entry offers an opportunity to visit the park outside of peak hours and with fewer crowds.
- Avoiding visitor centers during peak hours, or visiting just before or after their busiest times, can help you dodge long lines and crowded spaces.
- Talking to park rangers can provide valuable insights into hidden spots and quieter trails within the park.
- Going backpacking allows you to access the most secluded and wild parts of the park, away from the crowds. Apply for permits, gather gear, and prepare for a memorable adventure.
