National Monuments Are Underrated—These Are Some of Our Favorites

Skip the crowds, timed entry, and gridlock at national parks and head to some of America’s other natural wonders. National monuments often surprise visitors with their stunning landscapes and rich histories. These under-the-radar gems offer experiences comparable to national parks but without the throngs of tourists. Here are four national monuments that deliver the beauty and adventure of a national park, minus the hassle.

Colorado National Monument

Instead of: Grand Canyon National Park

Located in the same Colorado Plateau as the Grand Canyon, Colorado National Monument features spectacular canyons, towering rock formations, and a fraction of the visitors. With its 23-mile scenic drive, the monument offers breathtaking views and short trails that showcase its dramatic landscape. Just minutes from Grand Junction and Fruita, Colorado, this monument is a hidden treasure for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Instead of: Yellowstone National Park

Idaho's Craters of the Moon boasts a surreal landscape of ancient lava flows and geological wonders. This monument, co-managed by the NPS and Bureau of Land Management, provides an otherworldly experience with its vast rift valleys and volcanic features. Just 66 miles from Sun Valley, it’s a place where you can explore craters, spatter cones, and lava tubes without the crowds of Yellowstone. For a stunning sunrise view, climb Inferno Cone and gaze at the distant Teton Range.

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument

Instead of: Acadia National Park

Katahdin Woods and Waters in Maine offers a tranquil escape into the North Woods, far from the bustling coastal areas of Acadia. Established in 2016, this monument provides a wilderness experience with canoeing, hiking, and breathtaking forest vistas. The Appalachian Trail runs through the area, and the monument’s International Dark Sky Sanctuary status enhances the camping experience. The Friends of Katahdin Woods and Waters support the NPS with infrastructure and visitor services, making this a must-visit for nature lovers.

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Instead of: Mount Rainier National Park

Washington's Mount St. Helens, known for its catastrophic 1980 eruption, is now a vibrant landscape of recovery and beauty. Visitors can explore the monument’s lupine-covered slopes, hemlock forests, and lava tunnels. With three distinct access points, Mount St. Helens offers diverse experiences, from summit hikes to the intriguing Ape Cave lava tube. This monument provides a powerful reminder of nature’s resilience and offers awe-inspiring views without the crowds of Mount Rainier.

These national monuments offer incredible natural beauty and unique experiences, making them perfect alternatives to more crowded national parks.