Find Solitude: 9 Best Places to Escape the Crowds in the US
With its epic expanse and diversity of landscapes, it may seem easy to find some solitude in the USA. However, popular beauty spots often get clogged with visitors, particularly during the summer high season. Therefore, we present to you some of the best places across the country where you can truly escape and connect with nature.
Here are 9 of the best places in the US to find tranquility.
1. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Hiking in popular national parks can sometimes lead to bottlenecks as you wait to scramble over rocks or shuffle through narrow paths. Surprisingly, Capitol Reef, one of Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks, offers a peaceful atmosphere. I hiked two trails, Sulfur Creek and Cohab Canyon, that were wonderfully empty. The Sulfur Creek trail, winding through slot canyons and over waterfalls, was particularly breathtaking; this 5.8-mile trek feels completely unspoiled by human presence.
Stay in Torrey, UT for easy park access. While there aren’t many accommodation or dining options in this small town, the choices are excellent. Start your day with breakfast at Wild Rabbit Cafe and enjoy dinner at Hunt & Gather. Additionally, indulge in a unique cider tasting and a relaxing spa massage at Red Sands’ spa after a day of trekking.
2. Montana Badlands
Montana’s mountains may receive most of the spotlight, but its eastern badlands are a treasure for those seeking solitude. Characterized by striking landscapes and dinosaur fossils, this hidden gem showcases Earth’s staggering history without the interference of tourists. Hiking through the pyramid-like mounds in the Terry Badlands or exploring the vivid hoodoos of Makoshika State Park will provide an enchanting experience.
3. Coldfoot, Alaska
Catering to adventurous spirits, Coldfoot is a tiny community in Alaska’s far north, offering access to the stunning Brooks Range. Visitors can explore the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center for maps and ranger-led presentations. Moreover, Coldfoot Camp assists travelers wishing to hike or raft deeper into the remote Arctic wilderness, while also being a prime location for viewing the spectacular northern lights in the winter months.
4. Hovenweep National Monument, Four Corners, USA
Surrounded by stunning red rock canyons, Hovenweep National Monument is an archaeological zone with few visitors, where you can imagine life long ago. This site hosts ancient villages built between 1200 and 1300 CE, connected by dirt roads and trails. The Square Tower Group is easily accessible and offers a first-come-first-served campground. The expansive dark skies also attract stargazers, as Hovenweep is one of the world’s rare International Dark Sky Parks.
5. Superstition Mountains, Arizona
Eager hikers can escape the crowds at Camelback Mountain by heading east on Hwy 60 to the Superstition Mountains. This region offers stunning desert views, iconic saguaro cacti, and various hiking options suitable for both novice and experienced hikers. While numerous trails exist, the Hieroglyphic Trail provides an easier hike with beautiful petroglyphs and a waterfall.
6. The Shenandoah Valley, Virginia
While overshadowed by majestic mountains, the Shenandoah Valley is a paradise surrounded by the Blue Ridge and Alleghany Mountains. This 140-mile stretch is perfect for a scenic road trip, where you can drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway or Skyline Drive, discovering charming small towns and beautiful vineyards. The Shenandoah National Park offers opportunities for hiking and appreciating the valley’s stunning landscape.
7. Bellingham, Washington
Bellingham is a quaint oasis in Washington, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a less crowded experience. A slight detour along Chuckanut Drive provides breathtaking views of Sammish and Bellingham Bay. In town, indulge in delicious local cuisine and explore independent bookstores. Biking along the bay or enjoying a picnic at Boulevard Park are lovely ways to unwind.
8. Channel Islands National Park, California
If you wish to escape from the grid, Channel Islands National Park is a must-visit. This unique archipelago offers breathtaking, rugged landscapes with flora and fauna found nowhere else. Accessible via boat, exploring any of the five islands gives you a chance to connect with nature, plus you can set up camp for an extended getaway.
9. Jayuya, Puerto Rico
A domestic flight from the mainland US brings you to Jayuya, located in the Central Mountains of Puerto Rico. This region is rich in Indigenous history and celebrates local heritage, making it a unique destination for solitude seekers. Adventurers can explore partially-trafficked hikes, coffee farms, and beautiful jungle pools fed by waterfalls, all while sipping on locally-made pitorro, a moonshine rum.
