Off The Beaten Path National Parks

Seeker Editors

For adventurous individuals seeking space away from bustling tourist destinations, we have selected some of the most mesmerizing national parks across North America for your next escapade. From the arctic circle in Canada to deep canyons of California, witness brown bears hunting for salmon, puffins gathering on beaches, and wildflowers blooming a symphony of colors. From clear turquoise waters and sandy beaches to volcanic terrain- beat the crowds at these lesser-known national parks across the continent.

Ivvavik National Park, Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, Réserve de parc national de l'Archipel-de-Mingan, Virgin Islands National Park, Katmai National Park and Preserve, Pinnacles National Park, Congaree National Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park

  • Ivvavik National Park, Canada

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      This Yukon National Park is only accessible via charter plane, making it one of the lesser-visited national parks but brimming with untouched natural beauty. Expansive grounds of lush green along the rocky arctic coast, Ivvavik National Park is also home to a legendary Porcupine caribou herd. With plentiful wildlife viewing opportunities, and accommodation available, escape the crowds at this breathtaking destination.

  • Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, Canada

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      Beneath a panoramic view of thousands of stars in Nova Scotia, Kejimkujik National park dazzles with gorgeous terrain and unique wildlife. Complete with lagoons, sandy white beaches, iridescent waters, and blooming wildflowers, this park is truly a hidden gem.

  • Réserve de parc national de l'Archipel-de-Mingan, Canada

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      This picturesque national park is based in Quebec, made up of captivating limestone outcroppings and home to plentiful friendly wildlife. Witness puffins flocking to rocky beaches, and see live whales and dolphins dancing in deep blue waters. From island nature trails to sea exploration, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve had endless opportunities to bask in the beauty of nature.

  • Virgin Islands National Park, U.S. Virgin Islands

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      Excellent for snorkelers- more than half of this paradise-like national park is submerged beneath clear turquoise waters. Overflowing with unique marine life, fringed with coral reefs, and made up of gorgeous sandy beaches, Virgin Islands National Park is a dreamy, sunshine-filled Island adventure.

  • Katmai National Park and Preserve in King Salmon, United States

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      After devastating volcanic eruptions, the unique rocky landscape of this Alaska-based National park was formed. Katmai National Park is excellent for explorers seeking a versatile landscape experience amongst active volcanoes in the USA. Stop by lookout platforms to witness the park's famous brown bears fishing in the water for salmon.

  • Pinnacles National Park, United States

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      Along with unique Californian wildlife, Pinnacles National Park features a versatile terrain encompassed by thousands of gorgeous wildflowers and rich plant life. This mountainous landscape is made up of rare cave formations, oak woodlands, and deep canyons that are home to peregrine falcons, golden eagles, and California condor.

  • Congaree National Park, United States

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      Explore the largest tract of hardwood forest in the country at this rich green destination located in the heart of South Carolina. This is one of the oldest collections of forest land, featuring beautiful, towering trees alongside elevated pathways. Underneath heavy rain, the forest floor becomes entirely engulfed with water, witness this uniquely mesmerizing site from the safety of your platform.

  • Guadalupe Mountains National Park, United States

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      Guadaloupe Mountain National Park has impressive scenery that encompasses a variety of gorgeous natural landscapes-from deserts to rocky terrain. Along with having over 80 miles of picturesque hiking trails to explore, this hidden gem park in Texas is worth a visit for any nature lover.