With more people hitting the road this summer, national parks are expected to see record crowds. But if you're looking to escape the congestion, our Ali Reid has uncovered some hidden gems worth exploring.
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00:00With more people traveling and camping this summer, national parks are expected to be busier than ever.
00:06In Colorado, Black Canyon of the Gunnison offers dramatic, rugged beauty and far fewer crowds than the Grand Canyon.
00:13Campgrounds line the rim, and for experienced hikers, the inner canyon provides steep, challenging routes with less people on the trail.
00:21If you're interested in exploring below ground, Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is a great alternative to the more visited Carlsbad Caverns.
00:30Above ground, campers will find peaceful rivers, hiking trails, and shaded sites nestled in the woods.
00:37In Northern California, Lassen Volcanic National Park is packed with geothermal features similar to Yellowstone.
00:44But here, the trails are quieter and the campgrounds are less crowded.
00:48Summer also brings cool mountain air and long daylight hours perfect for evening hikes.
00:54On the East Coast, Shenandoah National Park offers an alternative to the often-packed Great Smoky Mountains.
01:00The Skyline Drive stretches more than 100 miles through the park, with dozens of scenic overlooks.
01:07And in Utah, Capitol Reef National Park is often overshadowed by Zion and Bryce Canyon, but offers just as much to explore.
01:15Its red rock canyons and stargazing opportunities make it a quiet desert gem.
01:20In summer, the park's historic orchards even open for fruit picking, something you won't find in most national parks.
01:27These five parks offer a quieter, more immersive camping experience without sacrificing the scenery or the sense of escape.
01:35For AccuWeather, I'm Allie Reed.
01:37For AccuWeather, I'm Allie Reed.