Exploring 5 Hidden Gems Beyond Popular National Parks

While popular national parks like the Grand Canyon and Zion receive all the hype and attention, I always try venturing off to lesser-known but equally awesome, budget-friendly locations. These hidden gems, often overshadowed by national and state parks, offer a nice escape if you want to avoid touristy crowds.

1. Cyanide Springs, Arizona

This old mining area is a ghost town with history. This location offers abandoned buildings and a rich, eerie, ambiance. Perfect for those interested in history, the town also features unique events, and photo opportunities. This place is perfect for a family road trip. Read more about this location in my full recap.

2. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

While not entirely unknown, Valley of Fire State Park often gets overlooked in favor of Nevada’s more famous attractions. However, its red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and colorful desert landscapes provide an awesome natural exploration experience. The park’s vivid colors at sunrise and sunset create a photographer’s dream, making it a must-visit. If you're into ancient petroglyphs, this park has it!   

3. Grafton Ghost Town, Utah

Near Zion National Park lies Grafton, a ghost town that contrasts Zion's busy trails. Grafton’s well-preserved buildings and surrounding scenery offer a quiet yet creepy retreat where you can explore a historical site. Originally established by Mormon Church Leader Brigham Young, this town lets you walk through ancient abandoned buildings. This is a must-stop if you're near Zion National Park. Read my full recap and watch my video below:

4. Idyllwild, California

Within the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild is a small mountain town offering pine forests and awesome hiking trails. Unlike the busier Sequoia or Yosemite, Idyllwild offers a more intimate experience with nature. Whether you’re interested in hiking, rock climbing, or simply enjoying the crisp mountain air, Idyllwild provides an ideal escape from urban life’s. Read my full recap.

5. Manzanar National Historic Site, California

Manzanar often doesn’t see as many visitors as other California parks. My brothers and I first discovered Manzanar on our road trip towards Mammoth. Entry was free and you could explore the grounds and enter bunkers. This site, a former Japanese internment camp, offers a sobering yet essential perspective on American history. The mountains in the background, desert landscape, and desolate area makes for both a beautiful and haunting visit. Read the full recap and watch my video below:

To sum up, exploring these hidden gems will save you money and it allows for quieter, more reflective outdoor experiences. Next time you plan a trip, consider building these sites into your road trip and get away from the beaten path. By exploring these hidden gems, you’ll get a different outdoor connection to nature and history often missed by the casual traveler.

Have you been to any of these locations? Let me know in the comments. 

Don't forget to PIN this post: 

Trip Resources

If you’re planning a road trip, here are some helpful sites that I use. Note, below are affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission for every booking, with no extra cost to you. Thanks so much, in advance!

Booking.com - Anytime we need a rental car, we use this site to find deals. 

Expedia.com - I like to use this site to explore upcoming cruises that I'd like to take. I also refer to it to compare hotel prices, flights, and car rentals. 

GetYourGuide.com - Book things to do, attractions, tours and discover new food. 

VRBO.com - When we’re not staying in an AIRBNB, we’re in a VRBO rental. We use this option when we want to enjoy a full house with individual bedrooms, a kitchen, backyard and other amenities. 

TripAdvisor.com - Anytime I want reputable reviews, tips, and overall advice about a vacation area, I leverage this site. 

Viator.com - Looking for cool tours in your vacation area? This site has a number of options.