There are many parks in the west that are beautiful, yet less crowded than others. Think about planning a travel experience including these lovely places.

1. Utah - Grand Gulch Primitive Area

In Utah there are over 37,000 acres called the Grand Gulch Primitive Area. Travel to this part of Utah which is located 350 miles southeast of Salt Lake City. Plan to explore on foot through a marvelous array of canyons that is one of the finest spots in the U. S. to find archaeological treasures.

2. Nevada - Great Basin National Park

Located in eastern Nevada is the Great Basin National Park. When you travel here you will have a chance to take the 12-mile Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive which features Nevada's only glacier. The Great Basin National Park is in eastern Nevada, just west of the Utah border.

3. Washington - North Cascades National Park

If you travel to Washington state plan to drive through the North Cascades National Park. You will be able to glimpse 318 glaciers and amazing ancient forests of fir and cedar. The park is in northern Washington, 120 miles from Seattle.

4. Arizona - San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area

The San Pedro river sprawls for 40 miles, 65 miles southeast of Tucson. Travel through the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area and be delighted by 80 percent of Arizona's bird species population. You can also travel by train on the San Pedro & Southwestern Railroad. This four-hour train ride is a great way to see the area.

5. California - Redwood National Park

In California there are several places to travel. Redwood National Park actually covers three California state parks. Half the worlds remaining stands of old-growth redwoods are found there. Located 300 miles north of San Francisco, U.S. 101 runs right through the park. If you travel on scenic State 89 you can drive through Lassen Volcanic National Park. It is a gorgeous place with steaming thermals, meadows filled with wild flowers and majestic peaks. Keep your eyes open as you travel for Reflection Lake and Loomis Museum.  Many people have not yet discovered some of the most beautiful parks the U.S. has to offer.

If you are making travel plans and would enjoy a little less in the way of tourist-populated spots, try one of the above suggestions.