In recent years, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has consistently been the most visited national park in the U.S. Each year, 12 to over 14 million people visit to see its misty mountains, verdant vistas, wondrous waterfalls, and wildlife. But these high crowds have become a persistent issue, whether it's spring break or the peak summer and fall. Luckily, there's an underrated gem with similar hazy hills and winding waterways, but in a serene setting.

Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is located right at the Smokies' opposite end along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is actually America's most popular national park unit . The Blue Ridge spans 469 miles, directly linking the two national parks: the Smokies on the south end, straddling Tennessee and North Carolina, and the o

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