National parks are valuable and wonderful places that one can visit to view scenic views, wildlife, and possibly interact with nature. Nevertheless, the majority of such parks attracts many tourists and therefore paths and viewpoints can become quite crowded and noisy, which is not what many people come to explore nature for. Luckily in these crowded parks there are some secluded areas which are not so famous and offer the visitors to be with nature and breathe freely. For those about to visit one of the many nationwide parks, this guide will make you familiar with some of such places, so your trip will be quiet and enjoyable.

Hidden Gems in Yosemite National Park

Tuolumne Meadows

Tuolumne Meadows is a beautiful area in the Yosemite high country and is very different from the Yosemite Valley with its masses of tourists. This is a large open grassy field which provides a view of large granitic domes, alpine lakes and grassy hills that are spotted with wild flowers. Tuolumne Meadows is not as well known as other areas in the park and can be a perfect destination for those seeking to be surrounded by Yosemites awe inspiring beauty with little to no other visitors in the vicinity. There is an opportunity to hike along the trail to the Cathedral Lakes where hikers can have privacy and stunning views of the nature.

Merced Grove

Although this area is home to some of the giant sequoias, there are usually many tourists there at any one time. Instead, there is Merced Grove which can be of interest to those who want to get away from the noisy crowds. Merced Grove is a more secluded area in the park and it contains a rather limited number of equally magnificent trees the giant sequoias. The grove is approximately a 3-miles round trip walk through a beautiful and quite forested area and rarely will you come across more than a few other hikers. This environment also provides the best opportunity to marvel at the sheer size of these great trees without the influence of crowed environment.

North Dome Trail

For those who want to get the views similar to those of the famous Half Dome trail but without the crowds the North Dome Trail is perfect. Although this is a middle level trail, it provides spectacular views of Yosemite Valley and the opposite side of Half Dome. The trail is not as crowded as the other main roads, and it is thus possible for hikers to get a feel of the environment with minimal interference. During its course, the trail covers green woods and bare granite meadows, so those visitors who seek less crowded areas in Yosemite will find this hike rather interesting.

Secret Spots in Yellowstone National Park

Lamar Valley

Lamar Valley is popularly known as the Serengeti of North America by wildlife enthusiasts. This valley is situated in the northeastern corner of the Yellowstone National Park and despite the fact that it is not as popular as, for instance, the Old Faithful, it provides some of the finest approaches for observing wildlife. Here one can see herds of bisons, packs of wolves and rarely grizzly bears in the wild. Lamar Valley is relatively large, and wide-open space where these animals can be seen up close and personal in a quiet environment, and away from the many people that visit Yellowstone for its other attractions.

Shoshone Lake

Shoshone Lake is Yellowstones largest off-the-road backcountry lake that can only be reached by foot or by water and therefore is one of the most obscure sites in the park. The trail to the lake passes through extremely thick trees and alongside some of the most melodious small streams and culminates in the beautiful sight of the clear blue waters of Shoshone Lake. Unlike other parts of the Yellowstone, this lake is relatively isolated; hence it is rarely crowded with people. Here, you can kayak, fish, and camp all in silence and with a stunning view of the Yellowstone National Park in true wilderness.

Blacktail Plateau Drive

For the visitor seeking serenity and beauty in a drive way, Blacktail Plateau Drive is one of the best kept secrets in Yellowstone. This is a one- way 7- miles long dirt road that trends across high hills and meadows with expansive views of the mountain and valley. It is less crowded as compared to other roads in the park and thus offers a good scenic drive to the tourists. On your way to and from the trail you will get a chance to spot elk, dear, and even bears all in the less visited part of Yellowstone.

Lesser-Known Destinations in Zion National Park

Kolob Canyons

Kolob Canyons area is situated in the northwestern part of Zion National Park and it is not as popular as the central one. This region has all the features that attract visitors to the park; massive red rocks and steep canyons but it is still relatively unknown. The road trip of about 5-miles through the Kolob Canyons area offers excellent view; the hiking trails including the Taylor Creek trail provides a more intimate experience of the landscape and has fewer people. This area will suit all the people willing to enjoy Zions views without occupying high traffic areas.

The Subway

The Subway is perhaps one of the most popular, yet strenuous, off-the-beaten-path hikes in Zion National Park where hikers can only get a permit to navigate the trail. This slot canyon which resembles subway tunnel has emerald green pools of water, water falls and uniquely carved rocks. However, due to the permit needed and the intense hike needed to get to The Subway, the place is still a bit unknown and thus, very secluded and one can enjoy the magnificent view of the place all to himself. This little known trail is best for intermediate to advanced hikers seeking a more private hike to one of Zions most special spots.

Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon

Those interested in a more demanding hike can try Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon in Zion, Utah it is a little less mainstream. This is a relatively unknown trail that takes one through slim winding canyons with high vertical cliffs that evoke feelings of dread. Some sections of trails require one to climb and find his or her way through the rocks making the hike an excellent one for people seeking the challenging ones. Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon is not very popular and famous as other hikes in Zion, which makes hiking it a truly spiritual experience when you can enjoy the scenery of the park without interference.

Conclusion

Visiting out-of-the-way places in heavily visited national parks take one away from the hordes and show them what these natural attractions have to offer. If you choose the less popular places, it is more likely to have a calm and close-knit relationship with the nature. Whether it is the serene grasslands of Yosemite, Technicolor valleys of Yellowstone, or the secluded canyons of Zion, these secret gems give tourist an opportunity to explore the park without the company of hundreds of other visitors. Next time you go for a national park, try exploring the parks listed above, and see the tranquility that lies in these hidden treasures.