10 U.S. National Parks That Are Overrun and Overrated
U.S. national parks are often hailed as havens of natural beauty and adventure, but not all parks live up to the hype. Some have become so popular that the crowds, long lines, and sky-high prices overshadow the scenic views and tranquility they once offered. You’re not alone if you’ve ever visited a park only to feel like you were at a theme park instead of in nature.
These national parks might not live up to your expectations.
Yellowstone National Park
Often considered the crown jewel of the national park system, Yellowstone doesn’t always live up to the hype. Its geysers and hot springs are stunning but often obscured by crowds jostling for the perfect photo.
Grand Canyon National Park
Visiting the Grand Canyon during peak times is awe-inspiring, and there’s no denying its grandeur, but it can turn into a frustrating ordeal. Viewpoints will be crowded, and shuttles will be long. You might elbow for space with fellow travelers rather than soak in this natural wonder’s serenity.
Zion National Park
Millions come to Zion each year to marvel at its dramatic cliffs and canyons, but the park’s narrow trails, including Angels Landing, a popular trail, quickly become clogged. Hiking is no longer tranquil. Instead, it’s about dealing with crowds and waiting in line to get a view.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is beautiful, but it’s also heavily trafficked. Places like Yosemite Valley and Half Dome often feel like crowded city parks rather than the remote wilderness escape they once were. Finding a parking spot in the summer months is almost as competitive as getting a seat at a popular restaurant on a Friday night.
Acadia National Park
Acadia’s stunning coastline and carriage roads are famous but also hugely popular. The sunrise at Cadillac Mountain is a must-see, but you’ll share the view with hundreds of others. It is hard to find that intimate connection with nature in the crowd.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains, America’s most visited national park, is struggling with its popularity. At peak foliage time, the park’s hikes and scenic drives are teeming with people. The park is magical, but the number of people can make it seem more like a festival than a retreat in the forest.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Fascinating hoodoo formations make Bryce Canyon a must-see. Still, its popularity can make it hard to appreciate. Because the trails and viewpoints are limited in space, you’re often duking it out with others for a view, transforming what should be a relaxing experience into a mob scene.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is famous for its dramatic peaks, but the crowds have been overwhelming. The solitude of trails that once had them is now filled with hikers, and scenic drives are now a slow-moving parade of cars.
Glacier National Park
The rugged beauty of Glacier National Park is undeniable, but that doesn’t stop the crowds. During peak season, the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road can become a congested mess, and allowing yourself the time to enjoy the park’s natural splendor becomes quite the challenge.
Arches National Park
This park is frequently overrun with visitors but is especially known for its striking natural arches. Limited parking and narrow trails mean you’ll probably spend more time jockeying for a spot than enjoying the serene beauty of the formations.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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