Every new year is an invitation to new adventures. So where should you go in 2025?
There’s nothing more disappointing than going to an overcrowded national park. Instead of a life-restoring breath of fresh air, you get stuck in a three-hour bear jam, or have to dodge crowds of tourists on the trail.
There are so many OTHER incredible places in this country of ours, so this year we thought we’d highlight a handful from each region in the continental US: the West Coast (plus NV), Midwest, Mountain West, South and East Coast. We’ve polled the Parks Channel community and selected can’t-miss options for each region of the country. Our criteria: unforgettable destinations that are less crowded, less well-known (in most cases) and less difficult to secure the necessary permits.
There are an abundance of hidden gems in the Midwest, where small-town charm meets breathtaking natural beauty. From the rolling prairies that stretch endlessly toward the horizon, to the lush forests teeming with wildlife, here are just a few recommendations from us.
Have other suggestions? We want to hear them! A submission form is at the bottom of this post. And if your trip involves hotel stays, be sure to try out Parks Channel Member Travel. Free signup will give you access to discounts of up to 50%.
KANSAS & MISSOURI
FREEDOM’S FRONTIER NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA. Never heard of an NHA? Neither had we until we started the Parks Channel. A National Heritage Area is more than a collection of historic sites—it’s a dynamic region where the past and present converge. To date there are 62 of them. Freedom’s Frontier spans parts of Kansas and Missouri, telling the story of a divided nation and the resilience of its people. It’s where fiery debates over slavery sparked a civil war, where brave pioneers forged new paths, and where civil rights battles changed the course of history. This isn’t just about dates and dusty artifacts; it’s about standing where history happened, walking in the footsteps of change-makers, and connecting with stories that still resonate today.
Highlights:
Fort Scott National Historic Site: Travel back to the 1840s at this meticulously preserved frontier fort and learn how Fort Scott became a flashpoint in the fight over slavery.
Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park: Stand in the very building where history turned a corner. The Monroe Elementary School in Topeka, Kansas, is a powerful reminder of the Supreme Court decision that ended segregation in public schools.
John Brown Museum State Historic Site: Dive into the life of John Brown, the abolitionist who refused to back down. His passionate fight against slavery helped set the stage for the Civil War.
Black Jack Battlefield and Nature Park: Walk the fields where the first armed clash over slavery took place in 1856. The serene landscape belies the fierce struggle that unfolded here, marking a turning point in the nation’s history.
Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site: Take a family-friendly trip into 19th-century life with hands-on activities, stagecoach rides, and a glimpse of what life was like on the historic Santa Fe Trail.
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MARK TWAIN NATIONAL FOREST. Spread across the lush Ozark Highlands of Missouri, Mark Twain National Forest pays tribute to one of America’s most beloved authors. Named after Mark Twain — pen name of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, a Missouri native who forever captured the spirit of the Mississippi River in his stories — this forest stands as a testament to both the state’s literary heritage and its breathtaking natural beauty. With over 750 miles of trails for hiking and biking, 350 miles of streams for those who’d rather paddle a kayak or canoe, and abundant campsites and picnic areas, it’s truly a national treasure.
INDIANA
INDIANA DUNES NATIONAL PARK. Hitting the beach in Indiana? You bet! This is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and accessibility. Spanning 15 miles of Indiana coastline along the southern shore of Lake Michigan and encompassing 15,000 acres of diverse landscapes, this park is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Check out our Top 10 Things to Do there and videos from Parks Channel creators Trekers, Megatherium Club and the Center for Environmental Filmmaking at American University.
WISCONSIN
ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL. Officially designated a national park unit in December 2023, this trail stretches 1,200 miles across the state, celebrating its remarkable glacial history while honoring the ancestral lands of 15 Tribes. A collaborative effort supported by the Ice Age Trail Alliance, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, local partners, the National Park Service, and passionate volunteers, it’s a must for hikers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers. Some advice for the trip:
• Stay in Madison and Explore Madison’s Outdoor Scene: Known as the “City of Four Lakes”, Madison offers great access to water sports and trailheads including the Capital City Trail and the Badger State Trail.
• Start at Devil’s Lake State Park. Just an hour from Madison, its stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters offer one of the most scenic sections of the Ice Age Trail.
• Learn About Trailblazers Like Emily Ford. Check out the Outside film about Emily Ford, the first Black woman to thru-hike the trail in winter. Her story of perseverance and connection to nature is truly inspiring.
• Stop at Ski Hi Fruit Farm. Located near the trail, this charming women-owned spot is famous for its hard cider—highly recommended for a refreshing post-hike treat.
• Take a Detour to The House on the Rock. The House on the Rock is a mind-bending experience showcasing the creative vision of architect and designer Alex Jordan. It’s an unforgettable all-day adventure through fantastical rooms and exhibits.
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NORTH DAKOTA
THEODORE ROOSEVELT NATIONAL PARK. Our 26th president might well have blurted “bully!” at the astonishing natural riches of the park that now carries his name. Here, North Dakota’s colorful badlands meet rolling prairies and bison herds roam freely.
Scenic Drives: Get the lay of the land and breathtaking views—especially at sunset—on one of the scenic loop roads.
Hiking & Backpacking: Explore trails like the Wind Canyon Trail or the Caprock Coulee Trail for sweeping canyon overlooks.
Ranger Programs: Join guided walks or campfire talks to learn about the park’s history, geology, and ecology. Park Ranger Peelee often goes viral on Instagram.
Stargazing: Crystal-clear night skies are dreamy.
Where to stay: Medora is fun. Dickinson has MUCH cheaper hotels.
If you need more great tips on where to go and what to do, watch Theodore Roosevelt National Park: So Underrated by We’re in the Rockies.
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Top photo of Theodore Roosevelt National Park by Kathy Turner/NPS
So what did we miss? If you've got a suggestion for 2025 travel we'd love to hear about it!
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