Everyone Should Visit These 7 Beautiful Underrated Alaskan Parks

There are hundreds of impressive parks around Alaska that offer a wide range of recreational, sightseeing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. If you live here then you've probably been to the more popular parks, but if you're eager to hop off the beaten path and explore some lesser-known parks then look no further. We've gathered together some of the coolest parks in Alaska (though they are all pretty unique in their own way) and made the ultimate lists of state parks you absolutely MUST visit this year. Enjoy!

7. Chena River State Recreation Area

With a size of roughly 250,000 square miles, it's hard to run out of things to do at Chena River State Recreation Area. All year long there are awesome opportunities to explore and adventure through this park. Even in the winter months there are miles and miles of maintained trails for either motorized access or non-motorized use.

6. Delta Junction Area State Parks

There are 6 parks packed into the surrounding landscape of Delta Junction, each one more exciting than the last. There's excellent fishing in the streams and lakes and even a historical park with way too many buffalo.

5. Caines Head State Recreation Area and Resurrection Bay State Marine Parks

Caines Head State Recreation Area actually contains a scenic site of an abandoned World War II fort. Along with the run-down fort from WWII, there are also abandoned roadbeds and quite a few trails that you can spend time exploring.

4. Nancy Lake State Recreation Area

Nancy Lake State Recreation Area is quite special because it is one of the very few flat landscapes sprinkled with lakes that has been preserved as a park. The surrounding wilderness is secluded and untouched offering a one-of-a-kind escape into the Alaskan wilderness. Bring your canoes and kayaks because you'll want to spend all your time out on the beautiful lakes of this park.

3. Independence Mine State Historical Park

What once was an impressive gold mine was turned into a historical park on the tundra near Hatcher Pass. There is so much to experience and learn at this park, from gold panning to exploring the old mines.

2. Eagle Beach State Recreation Area

These 600 acres near Juneau offer miles of valley trails and a beautiful stretch of white sandy beach (Eagle Beach). When you get there, post up and be on the lookout for whales, birds, and other aquatic wildlife.

1. Settlers Cove State Recreational Site

Near Ketchikan is the secluded and stunning Settlers Cove State Recreational Site. Set in the rainforest of Ketchikan, you'll find yourself surrounded by lush Hemlock, Red Cedar, and Spruce. There is a trail leading to the cove that also provides access to a wonderful waterfall. There is access to a beautiful sandy beach and the dreamy waters of Clover Passage.

What is your favorite Alaskan park? Let me know in the comments.