North Cascades National Park in Washington has been recognized as one of the most affordable hidden gem national parks in the United States, according to a recent report by vacation rental platform HomeToGo.
Ranked 15th in the company’s list of top 20 under-the-radar destinations, North Cascades stood out for its pristine landscapes and budget-conscious appeal. Located less than three hours from Seattle, the park earned a perfect 10 visitor score for 2024 and an above-average interest rating based on search data related to vacation stays.
HomeToGo’s rankings aimed to highlight lesser-known national parks that offer remarkable experiences without high travel costs. The company analyzed exclusive search trends, vacation rental prices, and official visitor statistics to determine which parks offered the best value.
“This data-driven report uses exclusive search trend and vacation cabin price data, alongside official national park visitor statistics, to unearth incredible landscapes that fly under the radar—where you can take in the views instead of tourist queues, all while keeping your accommodation budget firmly in check,” the report noted.
While North Cascades received high marks in terms of visitor experience and popularity, its median vacation rental cost—$200 per night—was higher than many other parks on the list. Despite this, its dramatic alpine terrain and glacial features helped secure its place among the top affordable getaways.
Established in 1968, North Cascades National Park is part of the larger North Cascades National Park Service Complex. The park boasts over 300 glaciers, making it the most glaciated area in the contiguous United States outside of Alaska. According to the Washington’s National Park Fund, the area is known for its rugged peaks, cascading waterfalls, and abundant recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Top 10 Affordable Hidden Gem National Parks for 2024 (Median Nightly Rental Price per Person):
- Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska – $59
- Congaree National Park, South Carolina – $62
- Saguaro National Park, Arizona – $53
- Crater Lake National Park, Oregon – $75
- Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota – $56
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado – $56
- Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado – $112
- Arches National Park, Utah – $77
- Lassen Volcanic National Park, California – $120
- Capitol Reef National Park, Utah – $76
The full report is part of HomeToGo’s ongoing effort to guide travelers toward destinations that combine natural beauty with financial accessibility.
