Hello, Carlsbad Caverns National Park! by Mark Stevens Via Flickr: Natural Entrance Trail-13 A view looking down and to the east while walking the path on the Natural Entrance Trail in Carlsbad Caverns National Park. My thinking in composing this image was to capture the look of the man-made walking path as it led into the depths of the cavern. All around would be the cliff wall and areas caught in reflected sunlight, but there would be that one “hole” leading into the darkness below.

National Parks progress

I haven't posted about this in awhile. I'm going to pass the halfway mark in May (they keep making it harder, though, four new National Parks have been added since I started this ten years ago).

Here's where I've been. I have a trip planned for May, those are in italics.

Cuyahoga Valley

Great Smoky Mountains

Mammoth Cave

Congaree

Grand Canyon

Petrified Forest

Big Bend

Guadalupe Mountains

Carlsbad Caverns

White Sands

Saguaro

Shenandoah 

Acadia 

Joshua Tree 

Badlands 

Wind Cave 

Theodore Roosevelt 

Hot Springs 

Channel Islands

Biscayne

Everglades

Dry Tortugas

Glacier Bay

Wrangell St-Elias

Kenai Fjords

Denali

New River Gorge

Indiana Dunes

Voyageurs

Arches (May 2024)

Canyonlands (May 2024)

Capitol Reef (May 2024)

Mesa Verde (May 2024)

Black Canyon of the Gunnison (May 2024)

Thinking about national parks now and how I'd love to go to more of them. I'm going to list the ones I've visited and a thing or two I remember about each of them. Acadia: thunder hole and the rocky shores Badlands: the prairie hike and the way you can hike off trail, scooting down a very steep descent on my butt because it was better than falling headfirst Big Bend: hot springs, jays in the Chisos Mountains, Ross Maxwell Scenic drive and sunset near Santa Elena Canyon Bryce Canyon: the sun hitting the hoodoos late in the day Carlsbad Caverns: bats and the descent, learning about the ascent into Halloween Hall Gateway Arch: I didn't realize this was a national park?? It's surprisingly narrow but it was interesting seeing the mechanism to get to the top. Grand Canyon: on the north side black squirrels and a storm rolling in, on the south side the classic view Grand Teton: sunrise against the mountains, getting caught between a moose and a bear on a trail Smoky Mountains: the fall colors, the way the fog really is mysterious and thick and smoky Guadalupe Mountains: Smith Spring and the transition from scrub to forest Indiana Dunes: spending a day at the beach before it became a national park, the bog hike, taking a solo hike in the rain while my friends slept Mammoth Cave: the ice-cream cone formation, a playground at the motel (i was very young) White Sands: my deep desire to spot a lizard, the bright white of it all, admiration for people doing multi-mile hikes Yellowstone: my dad wearing socks on his ears because we did not expect winter weather in June, Moose Valley, my brother and i picking out the smallest hot springs and naming them after ourselves Yosemite: lots of big ravens, bridalveil fall viewed at a distance, sequoias Zion: bighorn sheep, peeking into the narrows, promising myself i'd come back with people who aren't afraid of heights and hike angel's landing

The Journey from Houston to Phoenix: A Guide to Unveiling the Wonders of the Southwest Embark on an unforgettable journey from Houston to Phoenix and uncover the wonders of the Southwest. This scenic route will take you through breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant cities, offering a diverse range of experiences along the way. From the vibrant culture of Houston to the stunning red rock formations of Sedona, and the natural wonders of Big Bend National Park and Carlsbad Caverns, this road trip is filled with adventure and discovery. [caption id="attachment_63195" align="aligncenter" width="696"] Houston to phoenix[/caption] Planning Your Trip Before setting off on your journey, it's important to plan and prepare. Consider the best time to travel, taking into account weather conditions and any specific events or festivals you may want to experience. The Southwest can get extremely hot during the summer months, so spring and fall are generally ideal for a comfortable trip. When it comes to transportation, you have several options. Driving allows for flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace. The journey from Houston to Phoenix takes approximately 17-19 hours, depending on the route and stops you make along the way. If you prefer not to drive the entire distance, you can also fly into either city and rent a car for the road trip portion. As for accommodations, there are plenty of options along the route, ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Budgeting for meals and activities will depend on your preferences, but it's a good idea to allocate funds for dining out at local restaurants and experiencing the various attractions. Houston: The Starting Point Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Houston, Texas. Before hitting the road, take some time to explore the city's unique attractions. Space Center Houston is a must-visit for space enthusiasts, offering a fascinating look into NASA's history and space exploration. Immerse yourself in interactive exhibits and even get a chance to see real spacecraft. The Houston Museum of Natural Science is another gem, housing an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils, gemstones, and ancient artifacts. Don't miss the Cockrell Butterfly Center, where you can walk through a lush rainforest and observe hundreds of colorful butterflies up close. For outdoor enthusiasts, Buffalo Bayou Park is a perfect spot to enjoy nature in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the park's trails, rent a kayak or paddleboard, and admire the stunning views of downtown Houston. If you appreciate art, make sure to visit The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. With its extensive collection of artworks from around the world, including pieces by renowned artists such as Van Gogh and Picasso, it's a true cultural treasure. Before leaving Houston, consider a visit to the Houston Zoo. Home to over 6,000 animals, including elephants, giraffes, and big cats, the zoo offers a fun and educational experience for all ages. Heading West: The Road Trip Begins As you leave Houston behind, get ready to embark on a scenic road trip that will take you through the heart of Texas and into the stunning landscapes of the Southwest. Your first stop is the historic city of San Antonio, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Take some time to explore the famous Alamo, where you can learn about the legendary battle that took place here. Stroll along the charming River Walk, lined with restaurants, shops, and picturesque views of the San Antonio River. Indulge in delicious Tex-Mex cuisine and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this captivating city. Continuing west, you'll soon find yourself in the rugged beauty of Big Bend National Park. This vast wilderness offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to birdwatching and stargazing. Explore the towering canyons, winding rivers, and desert landscapes that make this park truly awe-inspiring. Next, venture into New Mexico and visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Descend into the depths of the earth and marvel at the stunning underground formations, including the famous Big Room. Take a guided tour or explore the caverns at your own pace, and be sure to witness the unforgettable sight of the bats emerging from the caves at dusk. As you approach the end of your journey through New Mexico, make a stop at White Sands National Park. Step into a surreal world of endless white dunes, where you can go sledding, take a scenic drive, or simply bask in the beauty of this unique desert landscape. The Enchanting Southwest: Arizona Awaits Welcome to Arizona, a land of enchantment and natural wonders. Before reaching Phoenix, there are a few destinations you must explore. Begin with Sedona, famous for its stunning red rock formations and spiritual energy. Take a hike through the otherworldly landscapes of Red Rock State Park or embark on a jeep tour to truly appreciate the beauty of this unique region. Continue your journey to Flagstaff, the gateway to the Grand Canyon. This charming mountain town offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. Visit the Lowell Observatory to gaze at the stars or take a scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon, known for its breathtaking views. Make a stop at Meteor Crater, a natural wonder created by a meteorite impact millions of years ago. Explore the visitor center and learn about the fascinating history and science behind this impressive crater. Before reaching Phoenix, don't miss the opportunity to visit Petrified Forest National Park. Walk among ancient petrified trees that have turned to stone over millions of years. Marvel at the vibrant colors and intricate patterns preserved in the petrified wood, and discover the rich history of the Native American tribes who once called this area home. Finally, arrive in Phoenix, the vibrant heart of Arizona. Explore the city's thriving arts and culture scene, indulge in delicious Southwestern cuisine, and take advantage of the numerous outdoor activities available. Visit the Desert Botanical Garden, hike in the nearby Camelback Mountain, or simply relax by the pool and enjoy the warm Arizona sun. Your journey from Houston to Phoenix is a remarkable adventure through the wonders of the Southwest. From the vibrant city life of Houston to the breathtaking landscapes of Big Bend, Carlsbad Caverns, and the Grand Canyon, this road trip offers a diverse range of experiences and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of San Antonio, witness the surreal landscapes of White Sands, and explore the spiritual energy of Sedona. Arizona's enchanting destinations, such as Flagstaff and Petrified Forest National Park, will leave you in awe. As you arrive in Phoenix, take a moment to reflect on the incredible memories you've created along the way. The Southwest has revealed its wonders to you, and now it's time to share your own stories and inspire others to embark on their unforgettable journey through this captivating region.

15 - 20 December 2018

BIG BEND PADDLOFF ADVENTURE!

Holy shit what a wild ride. There was so much learned and so much experienced I hardly think I can get nearly all of it. 

Bri and I planned this trip on a whim, in a grand total of 2 hours. The next day was spent shopping (which we managed to have all food for a week cost less than $1/meal!) and prepping gear. The day after, we hit the road.

We drove for hours through Southern Arizona, and into New Mexico, where we hit our first stop for the night - Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument. We stopped here so we wouldn’t have to drive the whole way to Big Bend in one afternoon. We camped on BLM land, made a pasta dinner, sang songs and played guitar with a kind old man, and headed to bed.

Next morning, we packed camp and drove the rest of the trip to Big Bend National Park in Texas. Lots of small towns, gas stops, and quirky places (like a Prada store in the middle of nowhere as an art thing). Got to BBNP, got backcountry permits, checked out the visitor center, and waited for our friend Elsa to arrive. Once she got there, we tried to find camp, unsuccessfully. Thank you ranger for pointing us in the wrong direction! So first night in Big Bend we ran bandit. 

And of course, the next morning, after cowboy camping and breakfast burritos, we broke camp in a hurry to avoid the NPS patrols, whoopsie. Packed and read for the day, we headed out to the most beautiful part of the park, where we hiked almost 13 miles to reach the South Rim. What a view! And what a hell of a hike. Got back at sunset, and headed back to camp (which we now knew where it was, thanks to a kinder and more helpful ranger). Dinner and singing horribly to my guitar playing was a great end to the day.

Our plan for the next morning to have sunrise at the hotspring, right on the Rio Grande. So we brought our pocket rocket, and made tea as we steeped ourselves in 105*F water, and watched the sun rise over the river. A couple otter swims down the icey river later, we were satisfied and headed out. From there came a Balanced Rock hike. After messing around there for a bit, we did a sunset hike to the Window. There, we made sunset tea and were moved by the incredible view. Then, back to camp for our last night at the park.

Our last morning at the park, we packed up camp, said goodbye to Elsa, and bye to Big Bend. From there, Bri and I drove several hours to Guadalupe National Park. We got there a bit late, and really wanted to backpack Guadalupe Peak (the highest peak in Texas!) But conditions weren’t great, so we opted to do the Devil’s Hall hike, which was phenomenal by itself. Once we got back to camp, we had our last dinner and went to bed. 

The next morning was an early wake to break camp and make way to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Holy shit that place is phenomenal. I cannot say how many times my jaw dropped or I wanted to cry out of pure awe and admiration. What a place. After the hike, we had lunch in the parking lot, and drove the long way back to Tucson (of course, stopping at a trucker Denny’s for victory dinner).

What an absolutely phenomenal trip. Lived the dirtbag dream. Camping every night, making do with what we had, hiking every day, exploring new places, meeting great people, experiencing these places with amazing friends. As I said, I cannot begin to say how much fun I had. Between the impromptu adventures, making it up as we went along, days full of laugher, nights full of stars overhead, and everything between, I cannot express how incredibly grateful I am for my life. 

Acacia National Park! Maine’s Acadia National Park straddles eastern-deciduous and northern-boreal forests, attracting breeding songbirds, including nearly two-dozen warbler species, in summer. By 2050, as temperatures increase, boreal songbirds like Bay-breasted Warblers and Boreal Chickadees may be extirpated and move to cooler forests north of the park. At the same time, Acadia’s waters are poised to grow more crowded; waterbirds like the American Bittern and Pied-billed Grebe might skip their southbound migrations and winter in Maine instead. And Maine’s beloved Common Loon might stop breeding in the park. It is recommended that managers maintain wetlands and continue to track breeding warblers.

Badlands National Park! Best known for its rugged formations, South Dakota's Badlands National Park is also a birding destination for its grassland species. By 2050, hotter conditions may trigger declines in grassland birds that breed there in summer, such as Upland Sandpiper, Horned Lark, and Burrowing Owl, and the Mountain Bluebird may be extirpated from the park. Meanwhile, species more adapted to the arid Great Plains, including the Mississippi Kite, Northern Bobwhite, and Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, and the Southwest, like Scaled Quail, Cassin’s Kingbird, and Chihuahuan Raven, will likely thrive within its borders. Preserving healthy grasslands will give all birds the best chance possible.

Big Bend National Park! In western Texas along the Mexican border, Big Bend National Park is the largest protected area of Chihuahuan Desert in the U.S. The park consists of vibrant desert habitat, including mountain woodlands and rivers, and supports hundreds of bird species. After the annual spring bloom, birds become scarce during June and July’s hot, dry period; a second flowering and nesting cycle follows, in August and September, during the summer rainy season.

Biscayne National Park! Located in southern Florida, Biscayne National Park is 95 percent water and is home to numerous bird species, including loons, warblers, grebes, wading birds, and pelicans. Part of the Greater Everglades Ecosystem, the park suffers from inadequate freshwater flows, increased salinities, and an ever-growing Miami encroaching on its banks. Along with advancing Everglades restoration components specific to Biscayne Bay, managers can help bird species adapt to a changing climate by working with cooperating agencies and landowners to improve habitat connectivity and buffer zones across boundaries

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park! Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, located in western Colorado, is marked by wetlands, large rock formations, and deep canyons, such as the Black Canyon, which formed 1.5 billion years ago. Birds live in various habitats lining the canyon—from pygmy forests and oak flats at the rim, to shrubs and wildflowers along the canyon walls, to lush cottonwoods growing around the river at the bottom.

Bryce Canyon National Park! Located in southwestern Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park’s vast, arid landscape supports a diverse range of trees, shrubs, and plants, which support birds and other wildlife. By 2050, the park’s climate may become unsuitable for 19 species in summer, including songbirds like the Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Yellow Warbler, and Song Sparrow. In winter, it may be colonized by 43 species not found there today, including those from drier regions like the Crissal Thrasher and Cactus Wren. Due to its arid climate, water conservation and preservation of riparian habitats will be central for management of park resources.

Canyonlands National Park! A recognized Important Bird Area, Canyonlands National Park encompasses the intersection of the Colorado River and the Green River in Utah. In summer, the park’s climate could grow suitable for 19 new bird species like Yellow-crowned Night Herons, Greater Roadrunners, and Painted Buntings by 2050. Unfortunately, park visitors seeking to catch a glimpse of the Gray-crowned Rosy Finch may miss their chance as the climate warms. It is recommended that managers support habitat along the rivers, as this is a refuge for many birds as they migrate across the surrounding desert.

Capitol Reef National Park! At Capitol Reef National Park in south-central Utah, willow thickets and cottonwood forests are juxtaposed against tall canyon walls and expanses of barren red rock. By 2050, this park’s winter climate might become suitable for 57 bird species like the Vermilion Flycatcher, Western Bluebird, and Violet-green Swallow, some of which could begin overwintering in the park. The same climatic changes might cause the extirpation of 20 species in summer, including the American Goldfinch and Tree Swallow. Within Capitol Reef, the Fremont River is an Important Bird Area and a lush oasis in an otherwise arid landscape. It is recommended that managers focus on this area for conservation efforts.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park! New Mexico's Carlsbad Caverns National Park is situated in the Northern Chihuahuan Desert, one of the three most biologically rich and diverse desert ecoregions in the world. Habitats within the park range from lower-elevation desert shrublands and semi-grasslands to higher elevation montane grasslands, shrublands, and woodlands. Riparian woodlands and wetlands are few, but provide critical breeding and stopover habitat for water-loving birds—including Rattlesnake Springs, a designated Important Bird Area. The park is home to 15 species that are highly sensitive to warming temperatures, like the Burrowing Owl. The park will serve as an important refuge for these climate-sensitive species.

Channel Island National Park! Channel Islands National Park includes five remarkable islands off the coast of southern California, where thousands of years of isolation have created unique habitats and bird populations. This Important Bird Area is home to the only breeding ground for Brown Pelican in California, and they're likely to continue finding suitable climate in the park through 2050. Overall, the park’s climate is projected to become suitable for 26 new species in summer and 27 species in winter, which could potentially colonize the islands. It is recommended that managers continue to optimize habitat for its birds, focusing on maintaining appropriate habitat and working with other agencies to ensure that marine food resources are plentiful.

Our National Parks Sites Bucket List by State

It goes without saying that we plan to eventually conquer all 59 US National Parks, but there are quite a few other sites run by the National Parks Services that we want to see in addition to the parks. Below is our bucket list of all the nationally designated areas we'd like to see in the US in alphabetical order. We hope this inspires you to go out and see some of these sites that are near you!

For more bucket list inspiration: Check out our list of America's best thru-hikes, our epic road trip plan to see all of the contingent US National Parks, and our "get started" map to see what wilderness areas are close to you!

Alabama

Little River Canyon National Preserve • Russell Cave National Monument

Alaska

Alagnak Wild River • Aniakchak National Monument and Preserve • Bering Land Bridge National Preserve • Cape Krusenstern National Monument • Denali National Park • Denali National Preserve • Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve • Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve • Katmai National Park and Preserve • Kenai Fjords National Park • Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park • Kobuk Valley National Park • Lake Clark National Park and Preserve • Noatak National Preserve • Sitka National Historical Park • Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve • Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve

Arizona

Canyon De Chelly National Monument • Chiricahua National Monument • Glen Canyon National Recreation Area • Grand Canyon National Park • Montezuma Castle National Monument • Navajo National Monument • Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument • Petrified Forest National Park • Saguaro National Park • Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument • Tonto National Monument • Tuzigoot National Monument • Walnut Canyon National Monument • Wupatki National Monument

Arkansas

Buffalo National River • Hot Springs National Park

California

Cabrillo National Monument • Castle Mountains National Monument • Channel Islands National Park • Death Valley National Park • Devils Postpile National Monument • Golden Gate National Recreational Area • Joshua Tree National Park • Kings Canyon National Park • Lassen Volcanic National Park • Lava Beds National Monument • Mojave National Preserve • Muir Woods National Monument • Pinnacles National Park • Point Reyes National Seashore • Redwood National Park • Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area • Sequoia National Park • Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area • Yosemite National Park

Colorado

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park • Colorado National Monument • Currecanti National Recreation Area • Dinosaur National Monument • Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument • Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve • Hovenweep National Monument • Mesa Verde National Park • Rocky Mountain National Park • Yucca House National Monument

Florida

Big Cypress National Preserve • Biscayne National Park • Canaveral National Seashore • Dry Tortugas National Park • Everglades National Park • Gulf Islands National Seashore • Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

Georgia

Appalachian National Scenic Trail • Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area • Cumberland Island National Seashore • Ocmulgee National Monument

Hawaii

Haleakala National Park • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park • Kalaupapa National Historical Park • Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park • Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park • Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site

Idaho

City of Rocks National Reserve • Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve • Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument • Nez Perce National Historical Park

Indiana

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

Kansas

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Kentucky

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park • Mammoth Cave National Park

Maine

Acadia National Park

Maryland

Assateague Island National Seashore • Catoctin Mountain Park • Piscataway Park • Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

Massachusetts

Cape Cod National Seashore

Michigan

Isle Royale National Park • Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Minnesota

Mississippi National River and Recreation Area • Pipestone National Monument • Voyageurs National Park

Montana

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area • Glacier National Park

Nebraska

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument • Missouri National Recreational River ��� Niobrara National Scenic River • Scotts Bluff National Monument

Nevada

Great Basin National Park • Lake Mead National Recreation Area • Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument

New Mexico

Aztec Ruins National Monument • Bandelier National Monument • Capulin Volcano National Monument • Carlsbad Caverns National Park • Chaco Culture National Historical Park • El Malpais National Monument • El Morro National Monument • Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument • Petroglyph National Monument • Valles Caldera National Preserve • White Sands National Monument

North Carolina

Blue Ridge Parkway • Cape Hatteras National Seashore • Cape Lookout National Seashore

North Dakota

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Ohio

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Oregon

Crater Lake National Park • John Day Fossil Beds National Monument • Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve

Pennsylvania

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area • Middle Delaware National Scenic River • Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River

South Carolina

Congaree National Park

South Dakota

Badlands National Park • Jewel Cave National Monument • Mount Rushmore National Memorial • Wind Cave National Park

Tennessee

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area • Great Smokey Mountains National Park • Obed Wild and Scenic River

Texas

Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument • Amistad National Recreation Area • Big Bend National Park • Big Thicket National Preserve • Guadalupe Mountains National Park • Lake Meredith National Recreation Area • Padre Island National Seashore • Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River

Utah

Arches National Park • Bryce Canyon National Park • Canyonlands National Park • Capitol Reef National Park • Cedar Breaks National Monument • Natural Bridges National Monument • Rainbow Bridge National Monument • Timpanogos Cave National Monument • Zion National Park

Virginia

Shenandoah National Park

Washington

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area • Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area • Mount Rainier National Park • North Cascades National Park • Olympic National Park • Ross Lake National Recreation Area

Wisconsin

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore • Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway

Wyoming

Devils Tower National Monument • Fossil Butte National Monument • Grand Teton National Park • John D. Rockefeller Memorial Parkway • Yellowstone National Park

American Samoa

National Park of American Samoa

Puerto Rico

San Juan National Historic Site

Virgin Islands

Buck Island Reef National Monument • Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument • Virgin Islands National Park

See a site you think we missed? We'd love to hear about your favorite nationally designated areas!

Matthew Hahnel Drinkevolve National Parks Trip

Colorado (CO): Mesa Verde / New Mexico (NM): Carlsbad Caverns / North Dakota (ND): Theodore Roosevelt / South Dakota (SD): Wind Cave, Badlands / Texas (TX): Guadalupe Mountains, Big Bend / Minnesota (MN): Voyageurs / Arkansas (AR): Hot Springs / Michigan (MI): Isle Royale

Thanks Ronda

We made it! Tin Valley Retro Rentals. You can only get there via coordinates. No cell service, no hot water, no paved roads, no street lights. Ronda, the host, gave us the most specific directions, details and fun tidbits about the location. We got there no problem with about an hour of daylight so we could set up our first real campsite NOT in the dark. No problems there! There were so many cute animals (fur babies, as Ronda called them), 3 dogs, a burro (like a donkey) named Samson, who only liked junk food and sooo many cute tiny black cats. We made our first fire and first camp stove meal (pasta) and slept in our tent for the first time.

The next day we wake up at sunrise and head into Big Bend National Park. We had heard mixed opinions about going here but as of now both Andy and I agree that it was AMAZING. There were so many gorgeous landscapes. We saw the desert, mountains and rivers all in one day, in one park. The flora and fauna was beautiful- so many unique colors. A lot more green than we expected. We hiked the 5.2 miles Window View Trail- hard and hot but well worth it. The took the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive south all the way down to the Rio Grande and the Santa Elena Canyon. I was at a loss for words. I know we have a lot of beautiful sights and national parks ahead of us, but we were really blown away. We took a short 1.7 mile hike up into the Canyon and it kept getting more and more beautiful. So many photos, I couldn’t stop!!! The sun was starting to set so we took the Old Maverick Road to the park exit- this was the bumpiest dirt road my poor car has ever been on. 10mph the whole way, 4 wheel drive cards only. My car needs a spa day.....

Once we finally got into an area with cell service, we drove to El Cosmico in Marfa, TX, a hippie-dippy village with RVs, yurts and tipis for rent. This time we opted for the open campgrounds. Took advantage of the communal outdoor kitchen and the free coffee. A good stop for the night. Next stop: Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico!

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the United States

link

Cultural: 10

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site (1982)

Chaco Culture (1987)

Independence Hall (1979)

La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site in Puerto Rico (1983)

Mesa Verde National Park (1978)

Monticello and the University of Virginia in Charlottesville (1987)

Monumental Earthworks of Poverty Point (2014)

San Antonio Missions (2015)

Statue of Liberty (1984)

Taos Pueblo (1992)

Natural: 12

Carlsbad Caverns National Park (1995)

Everglades National Park (1979)

Grand Canyon National Park (1979)

Great Smoky Mountains National Park (1983)

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (1987)

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek (1979,1992, 1994)

Mammoth Cave National Park (1981)

Olympic National Park (1981)

Redwood National and State Parks (1980)

Waterton Glacier International Peace Park (1995)

Yellowstone National Park (1978)

Yosemite National Park (1984)

Mixed: 1

Papahānaumokuākea (2010)

Tentative: 20

Civil Rights Movement Sites (2008)

Dayton Aviation Sites (2008)

Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks (2008)

Thomas Jefferson Buildings (2008)

Mount Vernon (2008)

Serpent Mound (2008)

Frank Lloyd Wright Buildings (2008)

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge (2008)

Petrified Forest National Park (2008)

White Sands National Monument (2008)

Brooklyn Bridge (2017)

Ellis Island (2017)

Central Park (2017)

Early Chicago Skyscrapers (2017)

Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (2017)

California Current Conservation Complex (2017)

Marianas Trench Marine National Monument (2017)

Marine Protected Areas of American Samoa (2017)

Moravian Church Settlements (2017)

Big Bend National Park (2017)

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage for the United States:

None.

(US does not appear to be a member country)

Getting Out There (Big Bend National Park) by Mark Stevens Via Flickr: A look to the southeast across the Big Bend National Park landscape at the main northern entrance. Off in the far distance are ridges and peaks of the Sierra del Carmen in Mexico.

Year in Review: Best of Our Peripatetic Road Trip

We had hoped our travels would help us to get to know the U.S. a bit more, and maybe even stumble upon new places where we might want to spend more time in the future. There is still so much for us to explore, even within the places we visited, but on the one-year anniversary of the start of our travels, this post is about the highlights of our peripatetic year.

CITIES

Best Overall City: Bend (OR)

Deer hanging out in our front yard in Sunriver (where we stayed, 20 mins from Bend)

Most Underrated City: Houston

Most Overrated City: New Orleans

Walking around the French Quarter in early February

Least Favorite City: El Paso (Runner Up: Wichita (KS))

Most Random Town: Marfa (TX) 

Quirkiest City: Missoula (MT)

Best Drivers: Seattle

Worst Drivers: El Paso or Los Angeles

Worst Traffic: Los Angeles (Runner Up: Phoenix)

Best Downtown Parking: Scottsdale

Worst Downtown Parking: Seattle

Cleanest City: Phoenix/Scottsdale

Dirtiest City: Portland

Friendliest People: Portland

Scariest Dogs: El Paso

Most Cautious about COVID-19: Seattle

Least Cautious about COVID-19: Shreveport (LA) (Runner Up: Oklahoma City)

Most Scenic: Bend (Runner Up: Missoula)

We didn’t take many photos of Bend itself, but the stunning Painted Hills were a ~2 hour drive from Bend 

Missoula

Best Access to the Outdoors: Denver (Runners Up: Missoula, Seattle)

Hiking at Red Rocks near Denver

Most History: Montgomery

Nicest State Capitol: Oklahoma City

FOOD & DRINK

Best Overall Vegan/Vegetarian Food: Portland or Los Angeles

The garlic knots at Virtuous Pie were incredible

Most Unexpectedly Good Meal: Sabai Thai (Port Angeles, WA)

Best Tex Mex: Austin (obvi)

Best Brewery Scene: Bend

We were partial to the Ludwig at Deschutes Brewery in Bend

Best Cocktails: Portland (specifically a phenomenal bar called Deadshot)

NATIONAL PARKS

Best National Park: Yellowstone (Runners Up: Glacier, Banff)

Yellowstone

Glacier

Most Underrated National Park: Big Bend (Runner Up: Guadalupe Mountains)

Hiking at Big Bend

Guadalupe Mountains was surprisingly awesome as well!

Least Favorite National Park: Hot Springs (Runner Up: Everglades, but way nicer than Hot Springs)

The best view we could find at Hot Springs

Best National Park Town: Banff (Runners Up: Jackson Hole (WY), Port Angeles (WA))

Least Favorite National Park Town: Packwood, WA (by Mount Rainier)

Best Hike: Grinnell Glacier Trail (Glacier) or Skyline Trail (Mount Rainier) (Runner Up: Teahouses Trail at Banff National Park)

Grinnell Glacier

Wildflowers along the Skyline Trail in September

Best Lakes: Lake Louise & Lake Agnes at Banff (Runner Up: Crater Lake (OR))

Lake Louise

Best Waterfall: Takakkaw Falls (Yoho National Park)

Best Camping: Big Bend (Disclaimer: We only camped at a few places...but they were all pretty awesome)

Most Variety: Yellowstone

Best Wildlife: Yellowstone (Runners Up: Glacier, Rocky Mountain)

Bison in Yellowstone

Highest Elevation: Rocky Mountain

OTHER

Prettiest Drive: From Denver to Jackson Hole or From Yellowstone to Livingston (MT) (Runner Up: Flagstaff to Abilene via Gallup, NM)

Prettiest Non-National Park Hiking: Sedona

Best City Hike: Camelback Mountain in Phoenix

Best Botanical Garden: Phoenix (Runner Up: Denver)

Best Water Experience: Tubing in Missoula (MT)

Best Sand: White Sands National Park (NM)

Best Beach: Rialto Beach (Olympic National Park)

Best Cave (only cave?): Carlsbad Caverns National Park (NM)

Best Island: Bainbridge Island (WA)

Best Pier: Couer d’Alene (ID)

Best Airbnb: Woodstock (GA)

Our cozy living room in Woodstock, GA

Western Adventure

We are beginning this adventure in Santa Fe, NM where we met up with #1 son and his son. Our first stop is Roswell for lunch and hunt for aliens with our four year old grandson, before moving on to Carlsbad Caverns. Next is Big Bend in southern Texas on the Mexico border. We were planning to canoe into Mexico for dinner, but #1 forgot is passport. The last stop is White Sands national park where…

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The National Park Checklist

The National Park Checklist: The Ultimate Checklist for the Ultimate Bucket List Keep track of every national park you've visited and bring your favorite adventures back home! Use this print as a decorative poster and travel checklist. After visiting a park, simply fill in the checklist boxes next to each park with a pen and/or colored pencil. This print is a great way to keep travel of the parks you've already been to and which parks you have left to visit. Click here to order yours today! OR Get the Checklist for Free with any of our BOGO Offers! The America's National Parks checklist is perfect for the National Park lovers in your life! Give a gift that inspires adventure for many years to come. Updated for 2021 - includes our newest National Park New River Gorge in West Virginia. The National Park Checklist poster is 19″ wide x 13″ tall — and features all 63 Major US National Parks — including our newest: New River Gorge National Park. The National Parks Checklist includes All 63 National Parks: Acadia National Park American Samoa National Park Arches National Park Badlands National Park Big Bend National Park Biscayne National Park Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Bryce Canyon National Park Canyonlands National Park Capitol Reef National Park Carlsbad Caverns National Park Channel Islands National Park Congaree National Park Crater Lake National Park Cuyahoga Valley National Park Death Valley National Park Denali National Park Dry Tortugas National Park Everglades National Park Gates of the Arctic National Park Gateway Arch National Park Glacier National Park Glacier Bay National Park Grand Canyon National Park Grand Teton National Park Great Basin National Park Great Sand Dunes National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park Guadalupe Mountains National Park Haleakala National Park Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Hot Springs National Park Indiana Dunes National Park Isle Royale National Park Joshua Tree National Park Katmai National Park Kenai Fjords National Park Kings Canyon National Park Kobuk Valley National Park Lake Clark National Park Lassen Volcanic National Park Mammoth Cave National Park Mesa Verde National Park Mount Rainier National Park New River Gorge National Park North Cascades National Park Olympic National Park Petrified Forest National Park Pinnacles National Park Redwood National Park Rocky Mountain National Park Saguaro National Park Sequoia National Park Shenandoah National Park Theodore Roosevelt National Park Virgin Islands National Park Voyageurs National Park White Sands National Park Wind Cave National Park Wrangell-St Elias National Park Yellowstone National Park Yosemite National Park Zion National Park Click Here to See the America's National Parks Checklist! About the Artist Photographer and graphic artist Rob Decker studied photography with Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park during the summer of 1979 when he was just 19. It was an experience solidified his love of photography and our National Parks. Now he is on a journey to photograph and create iconic WPA-style posters of all 60 major national parks as we celebrate the next 100 years of the National Park Service. "I feel it's important to protect America's special places, and to connect people with nature. And it's up to all of us to pitch in. Perhaps more importantly, we need to inspire the next generation of park stewards. I'm trying to make a difference by giving back to the amazing organizations that support our National Parks. I donate 10% of annual profits, so when you buy one of these original works, you're helping these trusts, conservancies and associations, too." Learn more about our Giving Back program. Robert B. Decker retains the sole copyright of the original America's National Parks poster image. Any unauthorized reproduction violates international copyright law. Robert B. Decker - Limited Edition National Parks Posters - www.National-Park-Posters.com https://national-park-posters.com/blogs/national-park-posters/the-national-park-checklist?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=Sendible&utm_campaign=RSS

Photos by Daniel Lem/Collegian Staff. Above (from left): Lance Butikofer, Adrian Wurtz, Daniel Peters, Anna Winter, and Barry Lok discuss the route to hike in the Guadalupe Mountains in Texas on Mar. 9. Below (from left): Wurtz, Meghan Klein, Raphael Xavier, and Lok hike The Great Sand Dunes in Colorado on Mar. 12 during spring break. 

Peacocks relish taking a hike for Spring Break

By Daniel Lem/Collegian Staff

Spring break this year was about outdoor recreational activities for the Peacocks. The group of students that went for spring break with UIU was outgoing and adventurous. This year, the group who went for the trip is an outdoorsy group.

“I love outdoor activities,” Anna Winter, UIU senior, said. “I always go hiking whenever I’m free.”

Throughout the trip, they have been doing many outdoor recreational activities like camping, hiking, mountaineering (skiing) and white water rafting. The group have hiked five national parks over three different states. On top of that, they’ve also hiked a state park in Texas.

On Mar. 6, the group had its first hike of the trip in Palo Duro Canyon State Park. The park is a canyon system of the Caprock Escarpment in the Texas Panhandle near the cities of Amarillo and Canyon.

This national park is known as the second-largest canyon in America. While the students was there, they saw the moon even in day time. Everyone was thrilled to see the moon around the canyons. It made the view much more beautiful.

The group visited Big Bend National Park and had an amazing hike. Big Bend has a large swath of the Chihuahuan desert. The park covers a huge perimeter from Texas to Mexico.

It took the group two days to hike the park. To have a better view of the Big Bend, the group went to Mexico to enjoy the scenery. While they were there, they camped in the park with their tents.

Another national park the group visited was Carlsbad Caverns National Park. On Mar. 9, the group explored the park in New Mexico. The park features more than 100 caves. In the cavern, it has a large limestone chamber known as “The Big Room.” According to National Park Service, “the Big Room is the largest single cave chamber by volume in North America.”

They hiked in the dark with sufficient light to guide them through the cave. Even so, they were still able to see the amazing structures of the cave. Barry Lok, a senior in UIU, said, “The structure of the cave is really interesting. The cave is also very big, but I am sad that I couldn’t see any bats.”

The group also hiked in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. It has the fourth highest peaks in Texas. However, due to limited time, they weren’t able to hike the peaks. They were only able to hike easy route of the mountains. Through the route, they were still able to have a great view of the mountains.

Lastly, the group visited White Sands National Park in New Mexico and Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado. Both of these national parks are different from the others because the trails are very sandy. It’s harder to hike on the sands because of the gravitational force pulling the feet down. Meghan Klein, a sophomore in UIU, said, “It is really tiring to hike on the sands. It’s the hardest hike throughout the trip.”

The group enjoyed the sands because they were able to sled down on the sands. Winter called it, “My type of beach for spring break.”

Lok said, “I’ll never forget about the moments I had in this trip.”

How COVID-19 Is Affecting the United States' National Parks

https://sciencespies.com/news/how-covid-19-is-affecting-the-united-states-national-parks/

How COVID-19 Is Affecting the United States' National Parks

Amid global efforts to “flatten the curve” of COVID-19 transmission, hunkering down at home, away from friends, work colleagues and enclosed public spaces, has become the new normal. But in many places, going outside for some fresh air is still allowed. In fact, experts encourage it—so long as it’s under the right circumstances.

“My personal feeling is that if people are practicing sound respiratory hygiene, sound hand hygiene, they’re distancing themselves physically from others outside, and you’re exercising and walking in the park—I think that’s actually a good public health practice,” Albert Ko, an epidemiologist at the Yale School of Public Health, tells Laurel Wamsley and Maria Godoy of NPR.

Last week, the Trump administration waived entrance fees to the country’s national parks, hoping to make it easier for Americans to enjoy the outdoors during this difficult time. But the move proved controversial. In a March 19 statement, Phil Francis, chair of the Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks, which consists of current and former park employees, said, “We should not be encouraging more visitation to our national parks. It is irresponsible to urge people to visit national park sites when gathering at other public spaces is no longer considered safe.”

Francis’ remarks arrived close on the heels of an earlier coalition statement calling on the National Park Service to “close all facilities that require employees and/or members of the public to be in close proximity and in confined spaces.”

Reports of congested conditions at various parks have circulated on social media in recent days. According to the Guardian’s Annette McGivney, a park employee reported on Facebook that hundreds of people had streamed into a visitor center at Big Bend National Park in Texas last Monday. A worker at Utah’s Zion National Park, meanwhile, shared a photo of crowds waiting to board shuttle buses.

The Google Arts and Culture National Park Service portal offers virtual tours of Yellowstone, Yosemite and Carlsbad Caverns, among others.

(Google Arts and Culture)

But as these concerns started surfacing, the National Park Service announced that it would begin making changes to attractions where it was impossible to adhere to official guidance on social distancing. Some historic sites and outdoor spaces have shut down completely, among them major attractions like Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty; Yosemite National Park; the Washington Monument in D.C.; and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which is the most popular National Park Service site. A complete list of shutdowns can be found here.

Other sites are staying open but modifying their operations. Zion National Park has suspended the shuttle bus service that was a source of concern last week, for instance. The park also shut down its lodge operations, ranger programs and visitor contact stations, among other facilities. Visitor centers, overnight camping and museums are closed at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Joshua Tree National Park similarly closed its visitors centers, roads and campgrounds—though that did not prevent large crowds from gathering at the park over the weekend, according to Christopher Damien of the Palm Springs Desert Sun.

If these modifications—or concerns about staying away from potential crowds—are keeping you from visiting a national park, you can always opt to make a remote visit. The National Parks Service offers virtual tours of several key sites, including Yellowstone National Park and the Statue of Liberty. Over at Google Arts and Culture, you can take ranger-narrated tours of multiple parks, and learn more about the sites through objects in their collections. (Check out the fake heads made by Alcatraz prisoners to conceal their escape, for example.) The experience may not beat getting out into the great outdoors, but enjoying the parks from afar will help keep everyone safe.

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