National Park Week
This week we celebrated the beauty and wonder of our National Parks and the tireless work of the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service (NPS) is a bureau of the United States Department of the Interior that manages the country's 63 national parks, monuments, and other protected areas. The NPS has grown to include over 400 sites covering more than 84 million acres across the United States.
National Parks have a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century when advocates like John Muir and President Theodore Roosevelt began lobbying for the preservation of natural landscapes and cultural sites. In 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed into law the first National Park, Yellowstone, which remains one of the most popular and iconic parks today. Since then, dozens more have been established, each with its unique natural beauty, history, and significance.
National Park Week, celebrated from April 17-25, is an annual event that encourages people to explore and appreciate these incredible natural wonders. During this week, the NPS offers free admission to all parks on the first day, special events, and educational programs to visitors. This year's theme is “Your Park Story” which encourages people to share on social media what park place is very special to them using the tag #YourParkStory.
There are so many reasons to love National Parks. Maybe it is the towering sandstone cliffs and narrow slot canyons of Zion National Park, or the breath-taking views of the mile-deep, 277-mile-long canyon by the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park. Or maybe you would prefer Arcadia National Park situated on Maine’s rocky coast with its stunning ocean vistas, rugged shorelines, and forested mountains. Whatever National Park it is, the chance to see stunning landscapes, wildlife up close, the opportunity to learn about history and culture, will without a doubt spark the simple joy of being outdoors. But perhaps the most crucial reason is the critical role they play in conservation efforts. National Parks serve as vital ecosystems and habitats for thousands of species of plants and animals, many of which are endangered. By preserving these lands and managing them sustainably, the NPS helps to protect our planet for generations to come.
So, if you're looking for a fun and meaningful way to celebrate National Park Week, it’s not too late! Why not plan a visit to a park near you? You can join a guided tour or hike, or simply spend a day exploring and appreciating the beauty of our natural treasures. And don't forget to share your experiences with the tag #YourParkStory and spread the word about the incredible work of the National Park Service.
Several of our Team here at Giesler take pride in visiting National Parks around the United States. Here are just a few incredible photos from some of their most recent visits.
Happy National Park Week!
Sources:
The National Park Service website (https://www.nps.gov/)
National Park Foundation (https://www.nationalparks.org/)
National Geographic (https://www.nationalgeographic.com/)
National Parks Conservation Association (https://www.npca.org/)
Outdoor Project (https://www.outdoorproject.com/)