1. Alaska’s Gates of the Arctic National Park
Nestled entirely above the Arctic Circle, Gates of the Arctic is the ultimate escape for those craving untouched wilderness. There are no roads, no trails—just pure, unfiltered nature. Here, you can witness caribou migrations and experience the magic of the northern lights, all without a crowd in sight.
2. Isle Royale, Michigan
Located in Lake Superior, Isle Royale is accessible only by boat or seaplane, which keeps it wonderfully uncrowded. This isolated island is ideal for hiking, kayaking, and getting up close with moose and wolves. With no cars allowed, you’ll get a true back-to-nature experience.
3. Supai, Arizona
Tucked deep within the Grand Canyon, Supai is one of America’s most isolated villages, only accessible by foot, helicopter, or mule. It’s worth the journey to see the stunning turquoise Havasu Falls and experience the Havasupai Tribe’s unique culture.
4. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
If tropical seclusion is what you’re after, hop on a ferry or seaplane to this hidden gem. The Dry Tortugas are located about 70 miles off Key West and feature historic Fort Jefferson, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It’s the perfect remote getaway for snorkelers and history buffs alike.
5. Denali Highway, Alaska
This 135-mile stretch is one of Alaska’s most scenic and least-traveled highways. With panoramic mountain views, glacial rivers, and very few cars, this road offers plenty of chances to spot wildlife and soak in Alaska’s immense wilderness. Bring a tent or RV and take your time; this is nature’s playground.
6. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend might be a national park, but its remote West Texas location keeps the crowds away. This vast desert landscape, bordered by the Rio Grande, offers striking canyon views, rugged hiking trails, and endless stargazing. The park’s remote location ensures pristine skies and a deep sense of solitude.
7. The Maze District, Canyonlands National Park, Utah
The Maze isn’t just remote—it’s notoriously difficult to navigate. Known for its labyrinthine canyons, it’s best suited for skilled backpackers and adventure-seekers. Those who take on the challenge are rewarded with spectacular views, rock art, and a sense of being truly off the map.
8. The Wave, Arizona
A hike to The Wave requires planning, permits, and luck (thanks to a competitive lottery system), but the payoff is big. The surreal sandstone rock formations, sculpted over millions of years, make this destination feel like another planet. The challenge of getting there makes it all the more special.
9. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota
With over a million acres of water and forest, the Boundary Waters offer unparalleled solitude for paddlers and campers. With no motorized boats allowed, you’ll paddle across pristine lakes surrounded by dense forest and abundant wildlife, feeling like you’re in a true wilderness paradise.
10. Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona
Dubbed “The Wonderland of Rocks,” this hidden gem is tucked away in southeastern Arizona. Its bizarre rock formations and hidden trails make it a must for hikers and photographers. You’re likely to have much of the park to yourself, letting you soak up its beauty in peace.
11. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, Alaska
At 13.2 million acres, Wrangell-St. Elias is America’s largest national park—and also one of its least visited. From glacier-capped mountains to active volcanoes, this park has it all. For those willing to take on the rugged conditions, the reward is some of the most pristine wilderness in the country.
12. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, Georgia
The Okefenokee Swamp is a vast, mysterious wilderness where you can glide silently through cypress forests draped in Spanish moss. Home to alligators, black bears, and countless bird species, this hauntingly beautiful refuge is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts looking for a quiet, off-grid adventure.
13. Point Roberts, Washington
Point Roberts is an unusual exclave of the U.S. attached to Canada, making it only accessible by road through Canada or by boat. It’s a small, friendly community where life feels frozen in time, and the beaches and wildlife-rich waters make it an idyllic, out-of-the-way spot for nature lovers.
14. Black Rock Desert, Nevada
For a dose of wide-open solitude, head to Nevada’s Black Rock Desert. Known for the annual Burning Man festival, this desert is eerily quiet the rest of the year. With its stark landscapes and surreal sunsets, Black Rock offers the kind of isolation that makes you feel like you have the world to yourself.
