Stunning and quiet California National Park hailed as Yosemite 'without the crowds'

As tourists pack into America's most popular national parks, savvy travelers may wish to visit some hidden gems rather than battling the 'tourons' of Yosemite. 

Cedar Grove Lodge, at the Kings Canyon National Park is located only five hours away from Los Angeles, and features gorgeous close-by views of mountains, waterfalls, valleys, and ancient trees and glaciers, some of which are millions of years old.

Its surrounding nature offers plenty of campgrounds, hiking trails and swimming holes for every visitor to find their personal niche. 

Starting at just $191 per night, the 21 hotel rooms - which are television-free, have limited Wi-Fi access, and offer no cell phone service - inspire nature enthusiasts to get outside and explore the great outdoors, such as the Kings River, which is situated close by.

The rustic Cedar Grove Lodge, which is open from May to October, offers both queen and king beds, standard and suite rooms, and includes complimentary breakfast in its expensive daily cost. 

As tourists pack into America's most popular national parks, savvy travelers may wish to visit some hidden gems rather than battling the 'tourons' of Yosemite. 

Cedar Grove Lodge, at the Kings Canyon National Park is located only five hours away from Los Angeles, and features gorgeous close-by views of mountains, waterfalls and valleys

Its surrounding nature offers plenty of campgrounds, hiking trails and swimming holes for every visitor to find their personal niche

    
According to the National Park Reservations listing: 'Cedar Grove Lodge places you at the heart of the action. 

'Located just a few miles from Road's End, the park's farthest accessible point by car, the lodge provides the perfect launching pad for venturing into the park's wilderness. 

'Embark on awe-inspiring hikes to iconic landmarks like North Dome and Grand Sentinel, marvel at the expansive beauty of Zumwalt Meadow, or stand humbled at the foot of Muir Rock, a glacial erratic named after famed naturalist John Muir. 

'For those seeking a refreshing cascade, Roaring Falls, with its powerful presence, is just a short distance away.'

The listing continued: 'After a day of exploring the park's breathtaking landscapes, return to Cedar Grove Lodge for a relaxing respite. 

'The lodge offers clean and comfortable accommodations, ensuring a restful night's sleep before your next adventure. 

'Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation filled with unforgettable memories, or a solo exploration of Kings Canyon's wonders, Cedar Grove Lodge provides a welcoming haven.'

The hotel grounds also offer a gift shop, a market, laundry facility, ATM, and the Cedar Grove Diner. 

The 21 hotel rooms, which are television-free, have limited Wi-Fi access, and offer no cell phone service, inspire nature enthusiasts to get outside and explore the great outdoors

The rustic Cedar Grove Lodge, which is open from May to October, offers both queen and king beds, standard and suite rooms, and includes complimentary breakfast

Its park activities include a sightseeing bus tour, horse back riding, and trips to the Crystal Cave

The Cedar Grove Snack Bar offers open breakfast, lunch and dinner for its visitors. 

The hotel's gift shop features a plethora of options, ranging from the necessities of food and ice, to tent stakes and chairs.

The Cedar Grove Village provides accessibility to showers for an affordable token of $1.50, in exchange for three minutes, which can be extended if needed.

Besides its jaw-dropping backdrops, the Yosemite-esque views at Kings Canyon National Park, welcome a fraction of visitors that the iconic location typically gets, making it a sanctuary for wander lusters searching for some quiet downtime.

The National Park Service reported that last August, Yosemite got more than 594,000 visitors, whereas Kings Canyon only got 81,000.

Unlike the notorious national park, King's Canyon is less tamed and less manicured.

Several visitors were overheard enthusiastically saying: 'This is like a chill Yosemite,' according to the LA Times. 

Its park activities include a sightseeing bus tour, horse back riding, and trips to the Crystal Cave.