1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yes, Yellowstone is iconic, but is it worth the hype? The geysers are cool for a minute, but after you’ve seen Old Faithful erupt once (and jostled with 500 other people to do so), the novelty wears off. Add in the crowds, long waits for parking, and a surprising amount of time stuck in traffic jams caused by bison, and it can feel more like a theme park than a serene natural getaway.
2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
It’s just a big hole in the ground, right? Of course, the sheer scale is jaw-dropping at first glance, but once you’ve snapped your photos, there’s not much else to do unless you’re planning a strenuous hike into the canyon itself. Plus, the viewpoints are often packed, and getting that picture-perfect sunset moment can feel like a competitive sport.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
With its title as the most-visited national park in the U.S., it’s shocking how underwhelming the experience can be. Sure, there are lush forests and misty views, but the main roads often feel like highways clogged with bumper-to-bumper traffic. Wildlife sightings are rare unless you’re up before dawn, and the trails can be packed to the brim with noisy crowds.
4. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Is it an otherworldly desert wonderland? Sure, but only if you’re a fan of scraggly trees and rocks. The landscape is unique, but it’s also repetitive. The searing heat in summer makes exploring unbearable, and unless you’re into climbing or astrophotography, the park’s activities can feel limited. Instagram influencers love it, but does that make it worth the trip? Eh.
5. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion’s famous hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows are undeniably gorgeous, but they’ve also turned into tourist highways. Trying to enjoy the scenery while dodging hikers and waiting in line for shuttle buses is exhausting. If solitude and serenity are what you’re after, Zion might leave you more stressed than relaxed.
6. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia is pretty—no arguments there. But once you’ve driven up Cadillac Mountain and strolled through Bar Harbor, you might be left wondering, “Is that it?” The rugged coastlines are stunning, but they’re also surprisingly similar to other spots in New England. Add in the seasonal swarms of tourists, and the experience can feel more ordinary than exceptional.
7. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
For a park with such a grand name, Rocky Mountain can feel surprisingly mundane. Many trails are overcrowded, especially during peak summer months, and the scenic drives can be a bumper-to-bumper ordeal. Unless you’re a die-hard hiker ready to tackle the backcountry, it can feel like you’re simply checking off a box.
8. Everglades National Park, Florida
The Everglades are teeming with wildlife, but spotting it is another story. Unless you’re lucky, most of your trip will involve staring at flat, marshy landscapes while battling the oppressive humidity and swarms of mosquitoes. Airboat tours might sound thrilling, but they often feel like noisy, commercialized distractions rather than immersive experiences.
9. Death Valley National Park, California
It’s the hottest place on Earth—literally. While that might sound like a cool (or scorching) brag, the reality is a barren, oven-like landscape that offers little variety. Yes, the sand dunes and salt flats are unique, but after a few hours, the relentless heat can make exploring feel unbearable. Bring a camera, snap a few photos, and then head somewhere cooler.
10. Badlands National Park, South Dakota
The Badlands have a stark beauty, but their appeal is short-lived. Once you’ve taken in the layered rock formations and prairie views, there’s not much else to hold your attention. Wildlife sightings are hit or miss, and the dry, dusty environment can leave you feeling drained and ready to head back to civilization.
11. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Skyline Drive is Shenandoah’s main attraction, but after the first few overlooks, the views start to blur together. If you’re not up for a long hike, your options are limited, and the crowds can make even a scenic drive feel like a slog. There are prettier, less crowded places to enjoy the Blue Ridge Mountains.
12. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
While the cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde are undeniably fascinating, the experience can feel underwhelming if you’re expecting anything beyond archaeology. The guided tours are heavily regulated, limiting your exploration, and the landscape itself lacks the jaw-dropping vistas of other parks. It’s a niche experience that might leave some visitors unimpressed.
At the end of the day, “overrated” doesn’t mean these parks aren’t worth visiting—it just means the hype might have set your expectations a little too high. Nature is still incredible, but a little perspective helps when planning your next outdoor adventure!
