Want to avoid crowds at National Parks? Here’s how to beat them with tips on peaceful hikes, quieter spots, and the best times to visit for a serene experience.
Are you excited to visit a National Park but dreading the crowds? You’re not alone! National Parks are some of the most beautiful destinations in the country, but with that beauty comes popularity—and a lot of it. However, you can still enjoy these stunning places without feeling overwhelmed by the masses.
Here’s how to avoid crowds at National Parks and make the most of your next trip.
1. Arrive Early (Before 8 AM)
The early bird gets the peaceful hike! If you’re not arriving before 8 AM—7 AM at the most popular parks—you’re setting yourself up for a frustrating day. Early mornings are when the parks are at their quietest, parking lots still have spaces, and the trails are wide open for you to explore.
Why it works: Most visitors don’t arrive until mid-morning, making it easier to enjoy iconic sights and scenic spots without the hustle and bustle. Plus, if you’re into photography, the early light is perfect for capturing breathtaking photos.
Pro Tip: Pack breakfast or grab coffee on the go, and watch the sunrise over the park—it’s a magical experience you won’t forget.
2. Hike Longer Trails
If you’re up for it, longer hikes can be the perfect way to escape the crowds. Most people stick to trails under 5 miles, meaning the farther you’re willing to hike, the more solitude you’ll find.
Why it works: The average visitor avoids strenuous hikes, leaving longer, tougher trails less crowded. Not only will you enjoy a quieter experience, but the scenic rewards at the end of these hikes are often much more impressive!
Pro Tip: Use tools like AllTrails to discover trails that match your fitness level and preferences. AllTrails makes it easy to filter trails by length, difficulty, and reviews from other hikers, helping you plan your adventure. For even more benefits, consider upgrading to AllTrails+, which offers offline maps, route customization, and real-time trail updates—essential features for tackling longer trails in National Parks.
3. Skip Peak Season to Avoid Crowds at National Parks
Avoid the peak season whenever possible. This usually includes summer, holiday weekends, and school vacations. While the weather may seem perfect during these times, the crowds are at their peak. If you can, plan your trip during the shoulder season or the off-season for a quieter experience.
Benefits of off-season travel:
- Fewer crowds: Enjoy more space to yourself on the trails and at popular viewpoints.
- Cheaper prices: Save on lodging and travel costs.
- Unique experiences: Each season brings different highlights, from winter snow-covered landscapes to vibrant fall colors.
Pro Tip: Research the best off-season times to visit. For example, Yosemite in late fall or Joshua Tree in early spring can be less crowded while still offering beautiful experiences.
4. Visit Less Popular Parks to Avoid Crowds at National Parks
Every National Park is worth visiting, but some parks just don’t get the same attention as the more famous ones. Instead of heading to the busiest parks, consider planning a road trip to some underrated gems.
Some less crowded National Parks that deserve your attention:
- Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona offers unique geological features and ancient petrified trees.
- North Cascades National Park in Washington is a paradise for hikers, with fewer visitors than parks like Mount Rainier or Olympic.
- Kings Canyon National Park in California offers stunning vistas and peaceful trails without the crowds of nearby Yosemite.
Pro Tip: Mix well-known parks with lesser-known ones in a multi-park road trip. For example, pair Arches National Park with a visit to Canyonlands National Park, where you’ll find fewer people and equally incredible views.
5. Plan Your Visit for Weekdays
Avoid weekends whenever possible. Weekends are when parks are busiest because that’s when most people have time off. If your schedule allows, plan your trip for the middle of the week, when crowds are significantly thinner.
Pro Tip: Visit popular spots like the Zion or Bryce Canyon on a Tuesday or Wednesday to avoid the crush of weekend visitors.
6. Explore Beyond the Main Attractions
It’s tempting to head straight for the iconic viewpoints and trails, but so does everyone else. Go beyond the main attractions and explore less famous areas of the park for a more peaceful experience.
Why it works: Many visitors only stick to the main trails and viewpoints that they’ve seen on social media. By venturing off the beaten path, you’ll discover hidden gems that are just as stunning.
Pro Tip: In places like Grand Teton National Park, instead of heading to Jenny Lake, explore trails like Phelps Lake Loop or Death Canyon for a quieter hike with equally gorgeous views.
Conclusion: How to Take Control and Avoid Crowds at National Parks
National Parks are busy for a reason—they’re breathtaking! But by making small changes to your travel plans, like arriving early, hiking farther, skipping peak season, and exploring less popular parks, you can avoid crowds at National Parks and still enjoy all the natural beauty these incredible places have to offer.
Ready to start planning your next crowd-free National Park adventure? Follow @ptadventuring for more tips, tricks, and inspiration. With 45 out of 63 parks visited, we’ve got plenty of insider knowledge to help you avoid crowds at National Parks and make the most of your trip
By following these strategies, you can avoid the crowds and still enjoy the stunning beauty of National Parks. If you’re looking for more incredible destinations to explore, check out my post on Stunning 5 National Parks in the American West to Explore. Whether you want to hike remote trails or simply bask in the natural landscapes, these parks are perfect for your next adventure!
