Located in Southwest Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most incredible National Parks in the US and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is known for its Puebloan architectural sites, which span hundreds of years of human civilization in the region. The park is most famous for its cliff dwelling sites of which more than … [Read more...]
Category: National Park Service
National Park List
There's something about National Parks. From the Sea to Shining Sea indeed. The 63 National Parks span the entirety of the United States and it's territories. These parks are the crown jewel of the National Park System and American Parks. From the rugged coastline of Acadia to the incredible giants of Sequoia National Park to the slopes of … [Read more...]
Visiting Pullman National Historical Park – Illinois
Established as a National Monument in 2015 and redesignated as a National Historical Park in 2022, Pullman National Historical Park protects the historic Pullman District of Chicago. The area had it's start as a company town for the Pullman Company; a manufacturer of Railroad Cars from the mid-19th to mid-20th Century. Pullman was famous for the … [Read more...]
Yucca House National Monument Guide: Colorado
Yucca House National Monument is one of the least visited National Monuments in the Country and Colorado. The small site is mostly intriguing for those trying to visit all of the US National Monuments as the contents of the site may be disappointing to others. However, the site's history is pretty interesting. And for those going, you’ll have a … [Read more...]
Guide to Hovenweep National Monument – Utah
Hovenweep National Monument, situated on the border of Utah and Colorado, protects a group of ancient villages constructed by the ancestral Puebloan people. These stone structures are perched on canyon rims and nestled into rocky alcoves. Remarkably, they have remained intact for over 700 years. Visiting the National Monument feels like stepping … [Read more...]
Guide to Timpanogos Cave National Monument – Utah
Located in American Fork, Utah, Timpanogos has been awing visitors for over 100 years. This National Monument preserves this impressive cave system that is only accessible via a steep hike up the mountain. Visitors here are afforded beautiful views of the canyon and impressive formations throughout the various caves. Getting here is an … [Read more...]
National Parks in Arkansas
Arkansas has seven National Park units in Arkansas. Hot Springs is the only “National Park” of these units. The others range from three National Historic Sites and three other units. Two National Trails also traverse the state. National Parks Arkansas has one National Park (of the 63). Those called National Parks are among the most … [Read more...]
Natural Bridges National Monument Guide: Utah
Natural Bridges are very common in Utah, and Natural Bridges National Monument contains several beautiful examples. These bridges (not to be confused with Arches) are the main draw in this somewhat remote National Monument. If you are deciding to visit or pass through the area, this brief guide will hopefully help you plan your visit. About … [Read more...]
Visitor’s Guide to Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is one of the most incredible locations in the US yet one of the least visited National Parks. This post is about how to visit and what to do when going to Black Canyon National Park. About Black Canyon of the Gunnison The first thing most people think of Black Canyon of the Gunnison is that … [Read more...]
Guide to Visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park started it's life many years ago as Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park. Memorial parks are an odd thing, and it's feels a better fit as a National Park. The park protects a large swath of the North Dakotan badlands. Why is the Park named for Theodore Roosevelt Theodore Roosevelt came to the North Dakotan … [Read more...]
12 Incredible Hikes in Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is one of the country's largest and most diverse parks. The park is so large that driving between areas can take hours. It is also such a diverse ecosystem that you can be on the beach, then a rainforest, glaciated mountains, and wild rivers. It’s quite something to explore. The park offers some incredible hikes, and if … [Read more...]
Guide to Precipice Trail Hike – Acadia National Park
For Most people, the Precipice Trail Hike is one of the most sought after hikes to accomplish during their visit to Acadia National Park in Maine. This hike was definitely one of our goals and one of our favorite hikes of the park. This guide will help you with planning your own trip. About the Precipice Trail Hike The Precipice Hike … [Read more...]
11 Must Hike Trails: Redwood National Park
Located in Northern California, Redwoods is a combination of a National Park and State Parks. Actually, the state parks pre-date the National Park by quite a while, which makes them even more impressive. Most of the hikes are across the various parks, and we considered them all together when making this list. These trails are some of the … [Read more...]
Angel’s Landing Hike Complete Guide: Zion National Park
One of the most “dangerous” hikes in America, the Angel’s Landing Hike is also one of the country's most searched for and popular trails. The Hike is the one most folks who visit Zion National Park want to complete during their visit to the park. Getting to do it and do it successfully takes planning. From permits to equipment to timing, there’s … [Read more...]
21 Best Things to Do in Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in the country. It’s also shockingly compact and most folks can hit quite a few of the highlights in1 or 2 days. Below we have compiled many of the best things to do in Bryce Canyon from epic hikes to stunning overlooks. Queens Garden and Navajo Loop If you … [Read more...]
13 Fantastic Hikes in Zion National Park
One of the most visited parks in the country, Zion National Park has some of the most incredible landscapes and hikes. The scenery here is jaw-dropping with vertigo-inducing drops and towering canyons. There’s a lot to explore in the park, which can be overwhelming. Most folks will want to stick to highlights that explore the park's various … [Read more...]
Guide to Deer Mountain Hike RMNP: Tips, Info & More
The Deer Mountain Hike is a popular trail in Rocky Mountain National Park. This moderate trail offers lovely views over the surrounding area. The hike is well-traveled, so you’ll likely see plenty of people on it. About the Hike Distance: 6 miles | Type: Out & Back | Avg. Time: 3 hours | Difficulty: Moderate | Dog Friendly: … [Read more...]
Mount Storm King Trail Guide: Olympic NP
Towering over Lake Crescent, Mount Storm King is often rated the best day hike in the park. The view from the top is impressive, with 360 views atop a narrow rock outcropping. The hike is also difficult, known for steep inclines and harrowing sections. For those who make the hike, it’s an impressive accomplishment, and I met no person who … [Read more...]
Tall Trees Trail Guide: Redwood National Park
Located in the National Park, Tall Trees is one of the best hikes available within the Redwood National & State Parks. The hike takes you through some old-growth redwoods, including some of the tallest in the park. The trail is popular and these days require a permit to visit. We provide information on its difficulty, permitting process, … [Read more...]
Guide to Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
There are quite a few Fossil related National Monument Sites. Located in Central Colorado, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument protects a large area of fossil beds known for their insect and plant related fossils. Most of the fossils however are indoors, so is it worth visiting? Learn about the site and what you can do here. About … [Read more...]
15 Amazing Things to Do in Everglades National Park
The Everglades is one of the most interesting and unique parks in the United States. The huge wetlands are one of the world's most diverse and important ecosystems, so much so that many programs list them as critical wetlands. There’s so much to see and explore in the park; adventures are endless. However, we help you break down things to … [Read more...]
11 Incredible Things to Do in Dry Tortugas National Park
The crystal clear waters and low-lying keys of Dry Tortugas are an incredible sight against the blue of the Caribbean. The handful of small keys comprise less than 1% of the National Park, which is mostly underwater. We help you break down the best things to do in Dry Tortugas National Park. Some of these however require you to stay … [Read more...]
Dry Tortugas National Park Guide: How to Get There, What To Do & More
It’s one of the most remote national parks in the lower 48 states. Dry Tortugas National Park is a fascinating place in the crystal waters of the Caribbean. The beautiful keys along the shallow waters here punctuate the landscape. If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed about how to get to Dry Tortugas National Park, don't worry. We’re here to … [Read more...]
Devil’s Garden Trail Guide: Arches National Park
Devil’s Garden Trail allows you to get up close to several arches within this multi-mile hike. I don’t think any other hike in Arches has a concentration of arches that visitors can see on a normal trail. This and Delicate Arch are my two favorite hikes in the park. The hike is a mix of easy and quite difficult obstacles. The hike's difficulty … [Read more...]
Cedar Breaks National Monument Guide: Utah
Located in Southern Utah, Cedar Breaks National Monument has 6,155 acres of beautiful alpine land and a canyon amphitheater. The park is small, but there’s enough to explore for a day or two for those who want to see this infrequently visited National Monument. We help you plan your trip with this quick guide to the park. About Cedar … [Read more...]
Guide to Visiting Cape Alava – Olympic National Park
Cape Alava, the westernmost point of Olympic National Park as well as the Continental United States. If you are like me and love visiting Extreme ends of places, this is a great place to check off your list as well. If you haven't already, also check out my post on the Eastern Most Continental US Place at West Quoddy Head in Maine. … [Read more...]
Mossy Cave Trail Guide: Bryce Canyon National Park
Mossy Cave Trail is one of the most overlooked trails in Bryce Canyon National Park. Probably because it’s actually located outside of where you’d normally visit when going to Bryce. However, it’s also a great quick hike that is perfect for families and children visiting Bryce Canyon. The hike is short, easy, and has a few payoffs in the form … [Read more...]
Fairyland Loop Trail Guide: Bryce Canyon National Park
Fairyland Loop Trail on the north end of Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the Best Things to Do in Bryce Canyon. The hike takes you close to the hoodoos as well as great views of the amphitheater and many rock structures of the park. The Fairyland Trail is particularly great due to fewer hikers which brings a level of peace you don't find in … [Read more...]
14 Top Things to Do in Congaree National Park
Congaree protects over 26,000 acres of old-growth hardwood forests in South Carolina. It is most famous for its floodplain lands and its bald cypress trees (known for their “knees” which pop out through the swampy areas). The park is named for the Congaree River which runs through the park (and requires some effort to visit). The park was … [Read more...]
Watchman Trail Guide: Zion National Park
Zion National Park has some of the most incredible hikes in the entire National Park System. And so there’s no lack of choice for those visiting. Watchman Trail is not one of the most sought-after hikes, but in some ways that’s what makes it a good choice to visit. It’s pretty reasonable in difficulty and generally not as crowded as those super … [Read more...]
Alpine Pond Trail Guide: Cedar Breaks National Monument
Overshadowed by its National Park neighbors, Cedar Breaks National Monument is a beautiful small monument. The impressive monument sits at over 10,000 feet and has an incredible amphitheater that makes up the canyon. It’s a similar formation in many ways to Bryce Canyon however without all the sheer scale of Hoodoos however. There are several … [Read more...]
Over 10 Amazing Things to Do in Hot Springs National Park
The only National Park in Arkansas [although there are several other units] is Hot Springs National Park. The park protects an important natural hot springs area in this part of the country. However, the hot springs itself isn’t the only reason it’s a national park. It’s more for its interesting history and architecture that drove people to come … [Read more...]
Guide to Devil’s Hall Hike | Guadalupe Mountains’ Best Hike
The most popular and certainly best hike of the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, the Devil's Hall Hike takes visitors through several different environments and through a gorgeous steep canyon area (called Devil's hall). There's rock scrambling, hiking, soaring cliffs, desert plants, and old wash, what's not to like? This was by far our … [Read more...]
Queens Garden and Navajo Loop Trail: Bryce Canyon
Quite possibly the best (or at least most popular) trail in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Queens Garden and Navajo Loop combines these two trails into a great loop that gives you up close views of the Hoodoos. There’s so much to see in this short trail which makes it a perfect one for any visitor to the park. If there’s one trail you have … [Read more...]
Taylor Creek Trail [Middle Fork] : Zion National Park
This hike feels like a bit of a hidden gem in the Zion National Park trail network. It’s an idyllic trip through some beautiful wooded areas along a cute creek area. And even more so there’s some extra fun things you can discover as well. Taylor Creek trail is something fun, learn about the hike, the landmarks, and some extra fun things to … [Read more...]
Observation Point via East Mesa Trail Guide: Zion National Park
One of my favorite views over the canyon, Observation Point is a beautiful spot to look down on not just the canyon but also get some great views looking towards Angel’s Landing as well. The trail is an easier moderate trail among the trails of the park which much of it well marked and ambling. There is some elevation gain but it comes … [Read more...]
Lower Emerald Pool Trail Hike: Zion National Park
One of the best easy trails in Zion, the Lower Emerald Pool trail takes visitors to a beautiful lake and waterfall. This is one of the favorite hikes of many visitors to the park. Here we explain how to do the hike. About the Hike Distance: 1.4 miles | Type: Out & Back | Avg. Time: 30 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Dog … [Read more...]
Canyon Overlook Trail: Zion National Park
For those looking for a short hike with a great payoff, the Canyon Overlook Trail is the best option in Zion. At only 1 mile in length, hikers can see a stunning view and a fun hike along the canyon. Read on to learn more for advice and hike information. About the Hike Distance: 1 mile | Type: Out & Back | Avg. Time: 30 mins | … [Read more...]
Lowell National Historical Park: Visitor Guide
Lowell National Historical Park preserves the important industrial history of both the area and the greater United States. The factories here pushed the country forward and pulled along families from various backgrounds through its industrial factories. The Massachusetts town is a melting pot of America and important for so many reasons. About … [Read more...]
National Parks in Massachusetts: Complete Guide
There’s so much to see in Massachusetts, with 15 units spanning the state. None of these are among the 63 National Parks, but there are plenty of National Historic Parks, Sites, Recreation Area, and a Seashore. There are even 3 national trails that pass through the state as well. So read along to learn about the beautiful National Parks in … [Read more...]
Patterson Great Falls, The First Industrial City
I had no idea of its place in American History. Founded by Alexander Hamilton (of Broadway fame), Patterson, was the first city in the US founded specifically to be an industrial city. This is the reason that this park, the Patterson Great Falls National Historic Park was commissioned in 1976. History Soon after becoming the first Secretary … [Read more...]
Guide to Manzanar National Historic Site – California
Mom ,What's the movie about? The little girl asked as we all sat down in the seats in the darkened theater. I couldn't really fully see the folks behind me but I could tell it was a woman of Japanese ancestry and her young daughter. It's the movie about where your grandmother was born. Those words caught my breath. I think even walking … [Read more...]
10 Best Airports Near Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most visited National Parks in the country with over 3 million visitors annually. Add in nearby parks (such as Grand Teton and Glacier) and lots of folks are flooding into airports in the region. For most folks visiting, the best way to get to the park is via flights. There are quite a few airports in the … [Read more...]
Elkblom & Big Plateau Loop – Theodore Roosevelt National Park
I love Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and when I recommend folks to go, it is this hike; the Elkblom & Big Plateau I recommend most of all. It is the best day hike in the park and one where you’ll get to experience beautiful views, see wildlife, cross a river, and experience some wild North Dakotan places. About the Hike Distance: … [Read more...]
Four Lake Loop Guide: Rocky Mountain National Park
Bear Lake and Surrounding Area is one of the most popular and beautiful parts of Rocky Mountain National Park. The area is covered with quite a few gorgeous glacial lakes. This hike takes you to four of the best, Emerald, Haiyaha, Dream, and Nymph. What makes this one good, is that it's the best way to see them without any … [Read more...]
Glacier National Park: Visitor’s Guide
Glacier National Park is one that cannot help but inspire awe in all those who explore it. From those first views from Going to the Sun Road, or vistas over Glaciers, it really showcases the incredible beauty of the American West. The park is so far my 2nd favorite park in the National Park system (after Yosemite), but its a hard toss-up in … [Read more...]
Ultimate Guide on How to Get to Glacier National Park
This is a Post about How to get to Glacier National Park and not on things to do in and around Glacier National Park. That's covered in another post. So, my goal is to cover logistics and planning. Given Glacier NP's size and location in Northwest Montana, there are an incredible amount of options and logistics for getting to and from the park. … [Read more...]
Montezuma Castle National Monument: Visitor Guide
The incredible Puebloan construction of Montezuma Castle really does look like a castle. So much so that it fooled the early Europeans who named it in honor of Montezuma (thinking it was connected with the Aztecs). The history though is very impressive as is the engineering. Read up on the National Monument and how you can visit as … [Read more...]
Aztec Ruins National Monument: Visitor’s Guide
Designated a National Monument in 1923, Aztec Ruins National Monument protects an incredibly well preserved Puebloan village. Up to about the mid-11th century there were no inhabitants in this area and then folks continued to stream here and this village came to life. The area was cleared and built up quite considerably and was really well … [Read more...]
Explorer’s Guide to Utah’s Arches National Park
With over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, Arches National Park lives up to its namesake. The park is one of the gems of the National Park system and pretty incredible place with all the arches found in such a small area. Established in 1929 the park protects about 120 square miles of land (76,679 acres). Where is Arches National … [Read more...]
COMPLETE Guide to National Parks by Size
The National Park system has 425 units managed across the entire system. Of those, 63 are designated as National Parks. These are the crown jewels of the systems with the highest prestige and protection of sites within the federal system. National Parks though protect such a wide range of places and shockingly come in all sizes! The largest is … [Read more...]
Explore ALL National Parks in Indiana
Indiana has 3 National Park units within the state. One of those, Indiana Sand Dunes is one of the 63 National Parks. The other two are a national memorial and national historic park. Beyond these 3 National park Units there is one National Trail that crosses the state as well. So read on to learn about the 3 National Parks in … [Read more...]
Perfect One Day Itinerary for Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is huge. At nearly 1,400 square miles, it covers the majority of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington and with the structure of the park, getting between places can take a long time. So while we recommend several days or a week to explore Olympic NP, we know that people are short on time. Therefore, if time is … [Read more...]
Guide to Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
Established in 1997, Agate Fossil Beds National Monument in Nebraska protects the excavation sites and fossil remains of some of the world's oldest mammals. The site covers over 3,000 acres of land and has several excavation sites, a visitor center, exhibits, and walking trails. About Agate Fossil Beds National Monument The site is known … [Read more...]
Scotts Bluff National Monument Visitor’s Guide
Established in 1919, Scottsbluff National Monument protects an important landmark along the Oregon Trail, California Trail, and Pony Express Trail. It was one of the most referenced landmarks in diaries and journals of travels along the trails. About Scotts Bluff National Monument "Go West, young man, and grow up with the … [Read more...]
Guide to the Lost Mine Trail Hike – Big Bend NP
If I had to pick my favorite trail in Big Bend National park it would be the Lost Mine Trail Hike. And I’m not alone, it is consistently ranked as one of (if not THE) top hike in the park. I was really skeptical, could it really deserve all those high scores? Well, let's see if you agree. And here we are to help you plan your trip to Big Bend NP … [Read more...]
Guide to Santa Elena Canyon Trail – Big Bend NP
Located on the far end of Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, the Santa Elena Canyon is one of the most imposing features in Big Bend National Park. The walls of the canyon rise steeply for over 1,500 feet on either side of the Rio Grande which makes up the border of the United States and Mexico. The trail is short but one of the best in Big Bend … [Read more...]
Guide to the Beehive Trail Hike – Acadia NP
One of the best in Acadia, the Beehive Trail Hike, is a incredible, tough hike with beautiful views of the land and sea below. Like it's big brother the Precipice Trail, Beehive has steep inclines with bridges, ladders, and metal rungs to help you navigate and climb the trail. Read on to learn how to Visit. About the Beehive Trail … [Read more...]
Exploring Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve
The picturesque location perched on steep cliffs overlooking the Puget Sound, Ebey's Landing National Historic Reserve feels like a land from a time ago. The area traces some of the early settlers in the land, natives, pioneers from Europe, and beyond who came to live and settle the land. History of Ebey's Landing NHR The Land that is … [Read more...]
8 Best Things to Do in Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is one of the least visited parks in the United States. Actually, most people have never heard of it. While it may not be my favorite park in the world, it has quite a bit to offer folks who want to come and explore this Texas mountain region. It also has the highest peak in Texas as well. But there's so much to do … [Read more...]
Visitor’s Guide to Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Visiting the Park Cuyahoga Valley National Park protects the beautiful rural and natural landscape between Cleveland and Akron Ohio. Established in 1974, the park is an interesting site as it shares national, state, local, and private land within it's borders. This makes it very different than many of the national parks one can visit with actual … [Read more...]
33 Epic Western US National Parks (You MUST Visit)
The Western United States has some of the most incredible National Parks to explore in the United States. From alpine lakes and peaks, petrified forest, granite cliffs, unbelievable trees, and historical sites, the west is rich in parks for a reason. We situated this list for the Western Continental United States. Mostly parks from Western … [Read more...]
National Parks in Kansas
The National Parks in Kansas are primarily focused around historic and plains area culture and landscape. While the Sunflower State does not have any of the major 63 National Parks, there are 5 National Park Units and 5 National Trails that within the state. The 5 National Park sites include 3 National Historic Sites, a National Historic Park, and … [Read more...]
National Parks in Texas
The Lone Star State has some of the most incredible federally protected sites in the United States. There are 16 sites within Texas, including 2 National Parks, 2 National Monuments, a scenic river, national seashore, 2 national recreation areas, and several national historic sites. There are also 2 national historic trails that pass through Texas … [Read more...]
Great Guide for Visiting Isle Royale National Park
The largest Island in Lake Superior and one with a varied history, Isle Royale National Park is one that most people (even freq. National Park visitors) know little about. The park started life with ancient Ojibwe history from generations ago. With European settlers the area became known for mining which later turned into a resort for wealthy … [Read more...]
National Parks in Nebraska
There are 5 National Park Service Units within the state of Nebraska. While there are none of the 63 "National Parks" within Nebraska, there are several incredible sites including National Monuments, a National Historic Site, National Scenic River, and National Recreation Area. In addition to the 5 NPS Units, there are 5 additional National … [Read more...]
Best Hikes in Badlands National Park (Easy to Harder)
Located in South Dakota, Badlands National Park protects some of the most beautiful badlands in the country. While Badlands NP is named and protects the badlands they are not the only badlands in the area or country. Badlands represent dry rocky steep terrain that have been eroded overtime, they tend to lack water, be poor soil for … [Read more...]
Best Road Trips From Glacier National Park to Yellowstone
One of the most scenic parts of the United States is between Glacier National Park in Montana and Yellowstone in Montana/Wyoming. There's also a lot to do on your trip between the two places, and some amazing stops along the way as well. This post will examine the best way to maximize your time in between the places. How Far is it From … [Read more...]
10 Best Things to Do in Big Bend National Park
With more than 800,000 acres and 150 miles of trails, there so much to explore and see in Big Bend National Park. From wildlife, to beautiful starry nights, to the Rio Grande, canyons, and more, Big Bend with likely leave you in awe. Like most folks, time is limited and I'm sure you are trying to maximize the best things to do while visiting the … [Read more...]
Guide to Lehman Cave Tours – Great Basin National Park
Has anyone been in any other caves? Nearly everyone in the room raised their hand. He added. "Well ours is better than those". I scoffed a bit, having been in many caves. But to be honest, he wasn't too far off. Lehman Caves is one of the most impressive cave systems in the world. About the Caves Discovered in the 19th century by … [Read more...]
Ultimate 11 Day Colorado National Park Road Trip
A Colorado National Park Road Trip is one of the best ways to see this amazing state. Colorado is one of the most beautiful and diverse states in the United States. Did you know that the highest Sand Dunes in North American, incredible Alpine mountains, historic Puebloan dwellings, dinosaur fossils, and more are in this state? Yes. It's really … [Read more...]
Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone National Park Road Trips
Exploring the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone National Park and in between. There's a lot to see between the great states of South Dakota and Wyoming. This guide is looking at the areas around the Black Hills of South Dakota, and Northern Wyoming to help you better plan the best things to do and see, and where to maximize your … [Read more...]
Best Day Hikes in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is one of the most beautiful parks in the United States if not the world. There is plenty to do in the park and hiking is the best way to experience it. So much of the park is wilderness that if you don't get off the roads you won't see much of it, especially not the most incredible areas of the park. Note: If you don't … [Read more...]
Best Things to Do in Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park is one the strangest national parks in the country. It's divided into two different sections, East and West and it's main goal is to project these human-like cacti that populate the northern end of the Sonoran Desert. You'll see many of these Cacti around Tucson and the surround area, however, the concentration in the park … [Read more...]
Guadalupe Mountains National Park Guide
One of the least known National Parks in the United States. Guadalupe Mountains protects a unique mountainous landscape in northern Texas. The area protects some incredible wildlife, deserts, and mountain regions. Interested? Read along the see how to explore. About Guadalupe Mountains NP Established in 1972, the park protects some of … [Read more...]
Visiting White Sands National Park – New Mexico
I never knew sand could be so white. It is blinding looking at the fields of white gypsum that stretch in every direction. It looks like snow, it feels like clay, it floats like sand. It's a bit of a crazy experience. There are fields like this in a lot of places, but none that rival White Sands in New Mexico. For those interested in … [Read more...]
Best National Parks in Washington State
Some of the Best National Parks are in Washington State. Included among them are the world's most beautiful places, and certainly some of my favorite national parks and places as well. This post delves into the National Parks in Washington State. Which ones you should visit. And helps you maximize your time in the State. Each has something … [Read more...]
Guide to Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site – Montana
History of Grant-Kohrs Ranch The history of Grant-Kohrs Ranch started like many others, with a business idea. In 1840s, Canadian Johnny Francis Grant and his brother James began making their fortune trading with travelers moving west along the Oregon Trail. Their business would trade one healthy cow or horse for two trail-weary ones. Over time, … [Read more...]
Guide to Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
Did you know, the largest sand dunes in North America are in Colorado? Yes, Great Sand Dunes National Park feels like a place that shouldn't exist. Incredible field of dunes set among high Colorado peaks. But it's this that makes it such a magical place. If you are looking to explore, this guide should help you get started. About Great … [Read more...]
National Parks in Delaware
There are no major National Parks in Delaware. There are several sites within the State of Delaware including one official national park unit, one other site (that encompasses many other sites) as well as two national trails. National Park Units National Park Units are an odd designation. Some of the parks are part of a larger unit … [Read more...]
Guide to Mesa Verde National Park
For more than 700 years, people lived and flourished in the mountains, valleys, and cliffs of Mesa Verde National Park, located in present day Southwestern Colorado. And then somewhere around 1300 AD, the people left. Why they left? Where did they go? That's a lot of the information that is important to learn in Mesa Verde NP. Let's explore the … [Read more...]
National Park Sites: Connecticut
No major National Parks exist in New Jersey, however the state does have a national park unit, a soon-to-be unit and 3 National Trails. Both units are National Historical Parks. National Park Units The two units in Connecticut are the two National Historical Parks listed below. One of them is still in the process of being established, … [Read more...]
Explore ALL National Parks in Nevada
Nevada has 4 national park administered sites across this diverse state as well as 3 national trails that pass through the state. The National Parks cover a diverse biosphere of area from high alpine to hot low desert, to fossil beds and lakes. Some of the trails explore the diverse history of the area from pioneers and more. National Parks … [Read more...]
National Parks in Colorado
Colorado has quite a few National Park Sites including 4 National Parks with some amazing amounts of diversity. From impressive peaks, cultural sites, sand dunes, canyons, the state has an abundance of incredible natural and cultural wonders to explore. Several national trails also traverse the state as well as several national monuments as well. … [Read more...]
Best Hikes in Arches National Park
You've come to Arches National Park in Utah and wondering where to go and how best to use your time. The park, while smaller than many other National Parks still has a lot of trails to explore and places to see. With over 2,000 Natural Arches, there is a lifetime of things to visit. So how to maximize your limited time? We try to compile the must … [Read more...]
Guide to Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve
Craters of the Moon National Monument feels like a world away. It even feels a bit extra terrestrial. So much so, that NASA actually uses Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve to train future astronauts for missions on the moon and mars. So, maybe the name is apropos. Visiting here was a highlight of my time traveling through … [Read more...]
NPS: Golden Spike National Historical Park
One of the greatest achievements of the 19th Century, the Golden Spike NHP commemorates the completion of the transcontinental railroad. The linking of the East and West lines was an important step in uniting the country together. Places to See Promontory Station Doubling as the Visitor Center, Promontory Station is the location of … [Read more...]
Guide to Visiting Minidoka National Historic Site
One of the saddest chapters in US history. Minidoka War Relocation Center was one of the "internment camps" constructed to house Japanese (many of whom US citizens) during World War II. Signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Executive Order 9066 ordered that all persons of Japanese Ancestry "excluded" from the West Coast of the United … [Read more...]
Minuteman Missile National Historic Site
Warning...Use of Deadly Force Authorized... It's Classified... Or at least it used to be. These Minuteman Missiles, numbering over 1,000 were placed in silos all across the Midwest. Always on Alert, Always manned 24 hours a day 7 days a week. You may have mixed feelings about these sentinels standing watch. For sure the people who's land … [Read more...]
NPS: Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site
One of the most tragic events that occurred across the great plains. November, 1864, 675 cavalry men of spot the camps of Chief Black Kettle, White Antelope, and Left Hand in the valley below them. The Events Leading to Sand Creek Massacre Tensions between the US Government and Indians have come to a boil. Incorporation of Colorado as a … [Read more...]
NPS: Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park
Did you know Ohio's Place in Aviation History? The Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park traces the legacy of the Wright Brothers, Dayton's most famous sons. Their work truly pushed forward the age of flight. History of Dayton Aviation Heritage NHP Kitty Hawk, 1903 The two brother's from Ohio, fly their heavier than air … [Read more...]
NPS: First Ladies National Historic Site – Ohio
The First Ladies National Historic Site Info Established in 2000, the First Ladies National Historic Site in Canton Ohio commemorates and preserves clothing and other items of the various first ladies who have inhabited this position. The site comprises two different sites, The Ida Saxton McKinley Historic Home and the Education Center. The … [Read more...]
National Parks in New Hampshire
New Hampshire has 2 national park units within it's state. There are unfortunately no major national parks in New Hampshire, but it does have 1 National Historical site and also has 1 National Trail that traverses the state. National Historical Parks New Hampshire contains one National Historical Site within its borders. The museum and … [Read more...]
NPS: San Juan Islands NHP: The War of the Pig
The War of the Pig: The Pig Incident June 15, 1859. American Farmer Lyman Cutlar finds a pig rooting through his potato patch. This pig he thinks is one he's seen before and is tired of dealing with the damage. He raises his rifle, aims at the burrowing swine and fires. The shot sets of a chain of events that he probably didn't … [Read more...]
Guide to Nicodemus National Historic Site – Kansas
Nicodemus National Historic Site protects the only remaining western town settled by freed African American Settlers during the Reconstruction Period. There was a call for African Americans to start moving westward and they were promised land in the free state of Kansas for Homesteading. They came in droves, on train, on foot, and carrying all … [Read more...]
NPS: River Raisin National Battlefield Park
The Battle of Frenchtown: River Raisin January 1813,American Troops gathered at Maumee Rapids for a campaign to retake the Detroit from the British. America had declared war on the British months before in what would become known as the War of 1812. In August of 1812, Detroit had fallen to British forces. General Winchester had received word … [Read more...]
NPS: Thomas Edison’s Laboratory National Historic Park – West Orange NJ
Going to school for engineering, it was not possible to not know the name Thomas Edison. Certainly even if you are not an engineer you have heard the name of one of the world’s most famous inventors. And if you know a bit more about the man and the legend, you know that he did much of his best work in New Jersey. Thomas Edison's Laboratory … [Read more...]
Photo Essay: Kismet Fire Island – New York
Kismet New York is the westernmost settlement on Fire Island, the 30 some mile long barrier Island off the Southern Coast of Long Island New York. Kismet has been lived in for hundreds of years, first by the Natives of the region and then later the Dutch and for over a hundred Years Kismet, Fire Island has also existed as a set of settlements on … [Read more...]
Guide to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument
One of the newest National Park administered monuments. Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument is located in the northern woods of Maine, close to Baxter State Park and Mount Katahdin (the highest mountain in Maine). Mount Katahdin is famed as a terminus for the Appalachian Trail. This national monument does not have access to that state … [Read more...]
Lassen Volcanic National Park – California
One of the Least Visited and yet most interesting parks is Lassen Volcanic National Park. The Park itself is famous for having all different types of volcanos. Cinder Cone, Cinder Cone, Shield, Composite, and Plug Dome. Types of Volcanos Cinder Cone The most thought of type of Volcano. Lava and ash is spewed from a vent and over time the … [Read more...]