Across our U.S. public lands are more than 130 national monuments, each protecting a unique natural or cultural treasure. In this episode, we’re diving into ten that feel a lot like visiting a national park, but without the crowds.

We share a mix of places we’ve visited over the years, and each one surprised us with just how much they have in terms of scenery, hiking, and overall experience. From towering rock formations and remote desert canyons to cultural sites with deep historical meaning, these monuments offer many of the same “wow” moments you expect from a national park.

In this episode, we talk about:
Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming and why it’s always worth a stop,
Grand Staircase–Escalante in Utah and its endless options for adventure,
Canyon de Chelly in Arizona and one of our favorite ranger-led tours,
Chiricahua National Monument and its maze of rock spires,
Natural Bridges National Monument and its out-of-this-world natural beauty,
Colorado National Monument as an underrated scenic gem,
Bandelier in New Mexico and its fascinating cultural history,
Lava Beds in California (yes, caves… again),
Rainbow Bridge and its surprisingly powerful setting, and
Jewel Cave in South Dakota and its incredible underground world.

If you’ve ever felt like the national parks are getting a little too crowded, or you’re just looking for new places to explore, this episode will give you a list of destinations that deserve a spot on your radar.

Want more?

If you enjoyed this episode, check out our recently published Substack article: 10 National Monuments That Feel Like National Parks (But Without the Crowds)

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