Hidden gems: America's 20 least-visited National Monuments - latimes.com

Advanced Search

Advanced Search

X

Image 1 of 21

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12

 20. Chiricahua, Arizona19. Tonto, Arizona18. Capulin Volcano, New Mexico17. Pipe Spring, Arizona16. El Morro, New Mexico15. Buck Island Reef, U.S. Virgin Islands14. Gila Cliff Dwellings, New Mexico13. George Washington Carver, Missouri12. Aztec Ruins, New Mexico11. Salinas Pueblo Missions, New Mexico10. Hovenweep, Utah/Colorado9. Hagerman Fossil Beds, Idaho8. Russell Cave, Alabama7. Booker T. Washington, Virginia6. Fossil Butte, Wyoming5. Agate Fossil Beds, Nebraska4. Ft. Union, New Mexico3. Alibates Flint Quarries, Texas2. Cape Krusenstern, Alaska1. Aniakchak, Alaska

Looking for some peace and quiet during your travels this summer? We give you America's 20 least-visited National Monuments, taken from 2009 National Park Service data. From the thousands of petroglyphs at the El Morro monument in New Mexico to prehistoric caves at Tonto in Arizona, these hidden gems offer scenic views and a journey back in history. Before you visit, research each destination carefully. Some of these parks are remote and may be difficult to access.<br>
<br>
-- Kelsey Ramos and Deborah Netburn, Los Angeles Times

Looking for some peace and quiet during your travels this summer? We give you America's 20 least-visited National Monuments, taken from 2009 National Park Service data. From the thousands of petroglyphs at the El Morro monument in New Mexico to prehistoric caves at Tonto in Arizona, these hidden gems offer scenic views and a journey back in history. Before you visit, research each destination carefully. Some of these parks are remote and may be difficult to access.

-- Kelsey Ramos and Deborah Netburn, Los Angeles Times

Looking to get away? Browse our destination and topics pages to read about vacation ideas, view photos and videos and get advice from our experts.

More Destinations

San Diego | SoCal

Palm Springs | Deserts

Catalina Island

Calif. Wine Country

Bay Area | NorCal

Coastal California

Calif. Central Coast

Big Island, Hawaii

Oahu | Maui | Kauai

Southwest | West

Pacific Northwest

South | Northeast

Caribbean & Bermuda

Central & S. America

Asia | South Pacific

Themes

Family | Theme Parks

Budget | Air Travel

Road Trips | Ski & Winter

Outdoors & Adventure

Honeymoon | Cruises

Hotels & Resorts

Travel Features

Thin snowpack, dry conditions bring early fire season to Yosemite

Thin snowpack, dry conditions bring early fire season to Yosemite

Standing before the Lone Cypress

Weekend Escape: Ventura, a breezy California jaunt

Travel Photos

A breezy weekend in Ventura

A breezy weekend in Ventura

Sights and scenes in Carmel, Calif.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve near Carmel, Calif.

Follow @latimes

Salt Lake City, gay parenting capital of U.S.?

Salt Lake City, gay parenting capital of U.S.?

Mid-Wilshire could be election bellwether

Mid-Wilshire could be election bellwether

'The dog! The dog!' Camera crew spots tornado survivor's missing dog

Camera crew spots tornado survivor's missing dog

L.A. mayor's race inspires 2 youngsters

L.A. mayor's race inspires 2 youngsters

Tornado

Photos of the Day

Tony Romo to miss Cowboys' OTAs after back surgery in April 05/21/2013, 7:19 a.m.
2 defense contractors sentenced in Navy air base bribery scheme 05/21/2013, 7:02 a.m.
NBC News gets new president. Oscars still searching for host. 05/21/2013, 6:51 a.m.
Golf's two main governing bodies approve ban on 'anchor' putting 05/21/2013, 6:39 a.m.
Apple in the hot seat: Expect tough questioning at tax hearing 05/21/2013, 6:38 a.m.

Microsoft unveils new Xbox One console - Company Town - latimes.com 05/21/2013, 11:00 a.m.
The 10 greatest Angels of all time: No. 9 -- Chuck Finley - Sports - latimes.com 05/21/2013, 11:00 a.m.
Dodgers' Zack Greinke returns to Miller Park, where he is 15-0 - Sports - latimes.com 05/21/2013, 10:55 a.m.
Samsung, Google gain on Apple in brand value, customer satisfaction - Business - latimes.com 05/21/2013, 10:49 a.m.
Miami Heat vs. Indiana Pacers: Who will advance to NBA Finals? - Sports - latimes.com 05/21/2013, 10:37 a.m.

Video

Travel Blog

Mexico: Hands-on kitchen and spa, for $300

Mexico: Hands-on kitchen and spa, for $300

Daily Deal: Shopping pass at Time Warner Center in New York City