The 8 Most Remote Places Still Found in the United States

In a country as vast as the United States, one can still find pockets of untouched wilderness and remote locales that defy the hustle and bustle of modern life.

These places, often difficult to access and devoid of the conveniences found elsewhere, offer a glimpse into a world where nature reigns supreme. This list explores eight of the most remote locations in the U.S., each unique in its isolation and beauty.

1. Supai Village, Arizona

Supai Village, tucked away in the Grand Canyon, is a true hidden gem. Its remoteness is legendary, only accessible by foot, mule, or helicopter. This small village is the capital of the Havasupai Indian Reservation, and it boasts breathtaking waterfalls. The 8-mile hike to Supai is an adventure in itself, although not without its challenges.

What makes Supai truly unique is its mailing system, the last mule-driven post in the U.S. Visitors are greeted by a postcard-perfect landscape, where time seems to stand still. The village’s isolation offers a rare opportunity to disconnect and immerse in nature.

The serenity and beauty of Supai Village are unmatched, making it a must-visit for the adventurous soul.

2. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska

Gates of the Arctic National Park is a place where roads are nonexistent, and nature’s raw beauty is on full display. Located entirely north of the Arctic Circle, the park spans over 8 million acres. Visitors must rely on bush planes or embark on challenging hikes to reach this remote wilderness.

The park’s untouched landscapes feature towering peaks, wild rivers, and abundant wildlife. It’s one of the few places left where you can truly experience solitude and the raw power of nature.

Camping here means being self-sufficient, with no marked trails or campsites. Gates of the Arctic offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the natural world.

3. Isle Royale, Michigan

Isle Royale, a remote island in Lake Superior, is only accessible by boat or seaplane. Its isolation has allowed the park to remain a pristine wilderness, free from the touch of modern development. The island is a haven for nature enthusiasts and solitude seekers alike.

With over 400 smaller islands surrounding it, Isle Royale is a paradise for kayaking and hiking. The island is home to a unique ecosystem, including a wolf-moose population dynamic that draws scientists from around the world.

The absence of roads and limited services demand preparation and self-reliance. Isle Royale is a place where adventure and tranquility coexist, far from the trappings of daily life.

4. Point Barrow, Alaska

Point Barrow, Alaska’s northernmost settlement, is a place of stark beauty and isolation. This remote outpost is located above the Arctic Circle, where the sun doesn’t set for weeks in summer and doesn’t rise in winter.

Access to Point Barrow is typically via small aircraft, as no roads connect this isolated area to the rest of the state. The harsh climate and challenging living conditions create a unique way of life for its residents.

Despite its remoteness, Point Barrow plays a crucial role in Arctic research and indigenous culture. It’s a place where the modern world and ancient traditions intertwine, offering a rare glimpse into life at the edge of the world.

5. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Dry Tortugas National Park, situated 70 miles west of Key West, is accessible only by boat or seaplane. This remote cluster of islands is known for its crystal-clear waters and the historic Fort Jefferson. The fort, a massive coastal fortress, is a testament to 19th-century engineering.

The park’s isolation ensures a pristine environment, perfect for snorkeling and diving. With its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, it offers an underwater paradise to explore.

Limited visitor numbers and a lack of amenities mean this park remains largely untouched by tourism. Dry Tortugas is a hidden sanctuary for those seeking history and natural beauty far from the mainland.

6. Big Bend Ranch State Park, Texas

Big Bend Ranch State Park, Texas, unfolds as a vast wilderness where solitude and rugged beauty converge. Spanning over 300,000 acres, it’s Texas’ largest state park, offering expansive views and remote trails.

Access to the park requires determination, as the trails are challenging and the terrain is harsh. Visitors are rewarded with panoramic vistas and a profound sense of isolation.

The park’s remote location and limited facilities ensure an authentic experience. It is a sanctuary for hikers and nature lovers yearning for an untouched environment. Big Bend Ranch is where the true spirit of the Texas wilderness comes alive.

7. Owyhee Canyonlands, Idaho and Oregon

The Owyhee Canyonlands, straddling the Idaho-Oregon border, are a testament to nature’s artistry. This remote area features deep canyons, wild rivers, and vast sagebrush plains.

Reaching the Owyhee Canyonlands requires careful planning, as roads are scarce and often rugged. The solitude found here is captivating, with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and river rafting.

The area’s remoteness has preserved its natural beauty, offering a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. The Owyhee Canyonlands invite exploration for those seeking adventure and tranquility in equal measure.

8. Denali’s Backcountry, Alaska

Denali’s Backcountry regions offer a wilderness experience like no other, where marked trails are nonexistent. This remote area of Alaska is accessible only by foot or special permit buses.

The vast landscapes are dominated by Mount Denali, North America’s highest peak. The untouched wilderness provides a habitat for grizzly bears, caribou, and wolves.

Visitors must be self-reliant, as there are no services or facilities. The isolation and raw beauty of Denali’s Backcountry make it a paradise for those seeking solitude and adventure in nature’s grandeur.