Connecting With Nature

No, we're not off on another adventure, although I'd clearly be willing to return to Yellowstone. This photo brings back great memories of our time there a few years ago, including the most challenging hike we've ever done to the top of this mountain to see the petrified trees.

But the reason I'm posting it now is that this weekend would be a great time to head to Yellowstone or any of the other National Parks. It's the last of three fee-free weekends the U.S. National Park Service offered this summer to encourage park visitation.

We're big fans of National Parks. Whether it's the well-known locations, like Yellowstone and Grand Canyon, or ones known only to the locals, like our Gulf Islands National Seashore, we think these properties are national treasures. They protect some of the most scenic areas in our country, prepetuate sites important to our national history and protect the habitat of thousands of species. And while the core area of the big parks may be busy with vacationers this time of year, we've found you don't have to go far off the beaten path to find some tranquility and the chance to connect with nature.

The fee for an annual pass is worth it in our opinion...we've had one for a number of years now. But it's hard to beat free. You can find a park near you here. And if you can't go this weekend, mark your calendar for September 26. Entry fees will also be lifted on that day which happens to be National Public Lands Days. Fees will be waived for current and former military personnel on Veterans Day (November 11) as well.

Go...see...the National Parks are a great destination.

Comments

[Lori Neal]

I'm also a big fan of National Parks. I'd love to go back to the Grand Canyon again someday!

[Pat]

I take it you guys will be watching the PBS documentary on the development of the National Parks this fall.

[Charlenenglish]

I am a definate lover of our national park system National local. The other thing that I think is so impressive is every national park is different even when it is in the same region. I spent a month in Utah seeing every national park in the south then headed to Sundance Ranch and ending on Antelope Island in the North. They were all wonderful but different in their own way. Yes, our national parks are a treasure and a blessing.