Top Ten Offbeat Summer Parks

Yosemite National Park: Spring Backpacking

advertisement

National Parks have been getting a bad reputation of late—too crowded, too expensive, under-staffed run the complaints. But the fact that parks have become victims of their own success doesn't mean they're no longer worth visiting.

The truth is, Yellowstone and Grand Canyon are still wonderful destinations, just better appreciated when the hordes of car-campers have made their way home after Labor Day. For those seeking solitude and adventure from June through September, GORP has some other suggestions. Try the lesser-known jewels—Parks Lite—where you can find all of the natural wonders of big-name preserves without the hassles. For summertime enjoyment we've selected ten of our favorites.