Best Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park

Canyons carved over eons. Sheer breathtaking drop-offs. Extra-wide footpaths leading to parts less traveled. To explore Canyonlands National Park is to explore living on the edge.

The next time you're planning a trip to Utah, dare to look past the majestic Arches National Park and the mighty Zion and set your sights on Canyonlands. Often overlooked in favor of the more famous National Parks in Utah, Canyonlands holds the distinction of being the largest National Park in the state. It's also a reason why this is the best Utah National Park for off-the-beaten-path exploration.

Canyonlands is like a gigantic red rock that has been woodcut engraved by the ancient winds and water. The Colorado and Green Rivers trisect the Colorado Plateau, dividing Canyonlands into four sections: The Needles, Island in the Sky, the Maze, and the Rivers. The latter two sections are for more adventurous travelers due to their remote locations, where Island in the Sky is the easiest section to visit, and therefore the most visited.

With hundreds of miles of trails to choose from in such a large park, it's easy to get overwhelmed. For short walks, Island in the Sky and The Needles both offer ample opportunities, day hikes, and backpacking trips (with a permit). The Maze, due to its remote nature, is purely a backpacking destination where a permit is required.

Many trails are marked with cairns, which are small rock piles that lead you along the path, and oftentimes this is the only indication of where to go, so stay alert of your surroundings. Some remote trails do not receive regular maintenance from park staff and may not be adequately marked. If you will be backpacking, be sure to bring a topographical map.

The Needles

If you happen to be staying in Moab, driving 1.5 hours to get to the Needles may not sound all that thrilling, but it's certainly worth it. An intriguing landscape where otherworldly pinnacles of rock jut sharply out from the ground. The spectacle creates an environment that is surprisingly diverse and beautiful, providing some of the most fun outdoor activities in the Canyonlands.

Once you're here, the area is small and very easy to explore. Take your pick from several short trails, such as Slickrock, Chester Park, or Druid Arch. Embrace the wilderness of the area – it is truly a western feel as you hike and explore the Needles. The highlight of your trip in this district will no doubt be at Elephant Hill; a series of amazing trails that take you through the stunning rock formations.

With over 60 miles of interconnecting trails, many are as challenging as they are rewarding. Self-guided trails along the main roads feature different aspects of Canyonland's natural and cultural history. Surfaces can be uneven, and trail guides are available at the visitor center and trailheads. Other trails can be more primitive, where a mixture of slick rock and sandy washes can be experienced. Longer trails can be rough, with steep passes and drop-offs, narrow ridges, and gathering water in the backcountry can be tricky, so be prepared.

Island in the Sky

If you have limited time in Canyonlands, this is the district to be in, especially for first-time visitors. It is easy to get to from Moab, and the roads are all paved. Visit the overlooks – to visit most of them is to park your car and walk only a few steps. The two main roads, Grand View Point Road and Upheaval Dome Road offer the most overlooks and viewpoints, full of spectacular panoramic views over the canyons that were carved out by the rivers. One exception to the short walk is the must-see White Rim Overlook, which requires a 1.8-mile roundtrip walk that looks out over Buck Canyon and Monument Basin.

Mesa Arch is possibly the most recognizable, as it has been photographed countless times. But photos hardly ever do justice to the real deal, so be sure to visit it when in Canyonlands National Park. Grand View Point is another goodie. Look out below into the collection of stunning canyons that stretch as far as the eye can see.

At Aztec Butte, take a hike where Native Americans used to live, harvest, and hunt almost a thousand years ago. You will see several granaries and ruins offering beautiful views of the park. Then at Murphy Point, enjoy one of the best spots in the park where you can just sit back and admire the layered canyon views. It is the quiet hush accompanied by the grandeur of the scenery that captured the imagination.

The Maze

If leaving the crowds behind and getting in a 4WD vehicle interests you, The Maze should be on your to-do list. It is the least accessible part of Canyonlands. Here it is rugged, remote, and gorgeous. And some of the roads are difficult to drive, hence the need for an off-road vehicle. Plan to spend at least three days here, and the area is huge and you will be doing lots of driving.

The trails in the Maze include Horseshoe Canyon, which is popular, but be prepared for uneven terrain over steep rocky areas and slogging through sand. The other trails are more lengthy and usually require an overnight trip.

Pro Tip: Most roads in the park require high-clearance, low-range four-wheel drive. The main roads here are White Rim Road, Roads at the Needles, and Roads at The Maze. Some roads even require a permit, so be sure to check with the National Park Service for details.

The Rivers

With the Green River located west of the Island in the Sky mesa and the mighty Colorado River to the east, the two rivers meet at the confluence to the south of the mesa. They then flow into Cataract Canyon, creating a world-class whitewater rafting destination, featuring Class III to V rapids. Above the confluence, the rivers are wide and slow moving – the perfect opportunity to go canoeing or kayaking.

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Click Here to See the Canyonlands National Park Poster!

Rob Decker is a photographer and graphic artist who studied under Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park when he was just 19 years old. Now, he's creating iconic WPA-style posters for each of our National Parks. Click Here to learn more about his story and The National Park Poster Project.

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Celebrate National Wildlife Day

September 4th is National Wildlife Day. A day that celebrates the natural world all around us, particularly of the creatures we share our planet with. It's an opportunity for us to recognize the preservation and conservation efforts of countless people everywhere, and what we as humans can do participate in the improvement of the natural world.

Ansel Adams put it beautifully: “Today, we must realize that nature is revealed in the simplest meadow, wood lot, marsh, stream, or tidepool, as well as in the remote grandeur of our parks and wilderness areas.”

National Wildlife Day was founded back in 2005 by Colleen Paige, an animal behaviorist and philanthropist, in an effort to rescue and preserve endangered animal species from demise. The day also strives to acknowledge outstanding animal sanctuaries around the world for all they do to help preserve these animals and to educate the public about ongoing conservation efforts -- especially children, our next generation of conservationists and caretakers.

How to Participate in National Wildlife Day

• Help promote a NWD event at your local library.


• If your local school, library, or animal nonprofit organization does not already hold a NWD event, suggest one and offer to help.


• Help support NWD by promoting the day on social media and use hashtags such as #wildlifeday, #conservation, #wildlifeconservationday, and #nationalwildlifeday.


• Help clean beaches, rescue wild animals, or teach tourists about your local habitat


• Donate money to the National Wildlife Federation or World Wildlife Fund. Or donate to an official conservation group.


• Take a hike! Go to your favorite natural outdoor space and spend a few hours taking in the peacefulness of nature. Go birdwatching or participate in other wildlife viewing.


• When you travel or go on vacation, make a point to visit and learn about our state and national parks and nature reserves.

What will you do to celebrate National Wildlife Day?

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Rob Decker is a photographer and graphic artist who had the rare privilege of studying under Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park when he was just 19 years old. Now, Rob is on a journey to explore and photograph all 61 of America's National Parks. He's creating WPA-style posters to help people celebrate their own national park adventures — as well as encourage others to get out and explore!

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The National Park Service Anniversary, August 25th

The National Park System now comprises more than 400 areas covering more than 84 million acres in 50 states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, Saipan, and the Virgin Islands. 

Since 1916, the National Park Service has been entrusted with the care of our national parks. With the help of volunteers and partners, it safeguards these special places and shares their stories with more than 327 million visitors every year. 

But our national parks actually pre-date the National Park Service.

By the Act of March 1, 1872, Congress established Yellowstone National Park in the Territories of Montana and Wyoming "as a public park or pleasuring-ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people" and placed it "under exclusive control of the Secretary of the Interior." The founding of Yellowstone National Park began a worldwide national park movement. 

On August 25, 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed the act creating the National Park Service to protect the 35 national parks and monuments then managed by the department. The "Organic Act" states that "the Service thus established shall promote and regulate the use of the Federal areas known as national parks, monuments and reservations…by such means and measures as conform to the fundamental purpose of the said parks, monuments and reservations, which purpose is to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations."

An Executive Order in 1933 transferred 56 national monuments and military sites from the Forest Service and the War Department to the National Park Service. This action was a major step in the development of today's truly national system of parks—a system that includes areas of historical as well as scenic and scientific importance. 

Additions to the National Park System are now generally made through acts of Congress, and national parks can be created only through such acts. But the President has authority, under the Antiquities Act of 1906, to proclaim national monuments on lands already under federal jurisdiction. 

The National Park Service still strives to meet its original goals, while filling many other roles as well: guardian of our diverse cultural and recreational resources; environmental advocate; partner in community revitalization, world leader in the parks and preservation community; and pioneer in the drive to protect America's open space. 

Click Here to Start Exploring America's National Parks

Source: https://national-park-posters.com/blogs/national-park-posters/the-national-park-service-anniversary-august-25th

How Can You Support America's National Parks? Here are 5 Easy Ways!

Our national parks have taken center stage recently, and for good reason. Today, America's national parks need our support more than ever. Even with the Great American Outdoors Act, there's still a huge backlog of work, and COVID-19 hasn't helped matters any... So we need to lend our support to preserve America's Best Idea. So how can you help? It's actually very easy. Here are five ways you can contribute to these incredible places so we can enjoy them for generations to come!

Donate: Simply donating to the National Park Foundation will contribute to the 400+ national parks in the country. We have 84 million acres of land to protect!

Purchase an America the Beautiful Pass: Honestly, this one's a no brainer! At a cost of just $80 ($20 for Senior Pass), there's no better value on the planet than these annual passes. Get all the details at the National Park Service site and start visiting America's National Parks!

Contribute to the Conservation and Preservation Charities of America: This foundation trains people to protect the environment, conserve natural resources, and preserve historic places. It works to protect the nation's hiking trails, fisheries, rivers, coastal areas and oceans.

Become a Member: You can become a member of one of the many national, regional or local organizations, associations and conservancies that support our national parks. If you're already a member, renew for next year!

Share your Park Experience with Others: The only way to spread the word about the beauty and importance of national parks is to show other people just how wonderful these places are. Share your stories and pictures with friends, family and on social media and encourage others to find their park!

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I'm trying to make a difference by giving back to the amazing organizations, associations, trusts and conservancies that support the National Parks. I feel that 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 supporters. Click here to earn about how I'm Giving Back

So you can see how easy it is to support America's national parks! Now it's time to start planning your next National Park adventure! 

Click Here to Start Exploring America's National Parks

Source: https://national-park-posters.com/blogs/national-park-posters/how-you-can-support-americas-national-parks

National Park Service Anniversaries

The National Park Service manages more than 400 individual units, from national parks to national battlefields to national lakeshores and more, all commonly referred to simply as “parks.” Some current parks were set aside for the benefit of the public or preservation before the National Park Service was created in 1916. Others were eventually transferred from another agency.

This table lists the dates parks were created and when they became part of the National Park System.

Year	Date	Park Name and Location
1790	July 16	National Mall, District of Columbia
1792	October 10	White House (Presidents Park), District of Columbia (transferred to the NPS August 10, 1933)
1832	April 20	Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas (proclaimed Hot Springs Reservation; redesignated 1921)
1866	April 7	Ford's Theatre, District of Columbia (acquisition authorized; designated a National Historic Site 1970)
1872	March 1	Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming
1876	August 2	Washington Monument, District of Columbia (accepted; dedicated 1885)
1877	March 3	Statue of Liberty, New York (accepted; dedicated 1886; designated a National Monument 1924)
1886	December 7	Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, Montana (renamed from Custer Battlefield National Monument 1991; redesignated 1946 from National Cemetery of Custer's Battlefield Reservation)
1889	March 2	Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, Arizona (authorized as Casa Grande Ruin Reservation; redesignated 1918)
1890	August 19	Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, Georgia and Tennessee
1890	August 30	Antietam National Battlefield, Maryland (transferred to NPS on August 10, 1933; redesignated from a National Battlefield Site 1978)
1890	September 25	Sequoia National Park, California
1890	September 27	Rock Creek Park, District of Columbia
1890	October 1	Kings Canyon National Park, California (incorporated General Grant National Park 1940)
1890	October 1	Yosemite National Park, California (incorporated Yosemite State Park 1906)
1894	December 27	Shiloh National Military Park, Tennessee
1895	February 11	Gettysburg National Military Park, Pennsylvania
1899	February 21	Vicksburg National Military Park, Mississippi
1899	March 2	Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
1902	May 22	Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
1902	July 1	Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Oklahoma (incorporated Platt National Park and Arbuckle National Recreation Area March 17, 1976)
1903	January 9	Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
1906	June 29	Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
1906	September 24	Devils Tower National Monument, Wyoming
1906	December 8	El Morro National Monument, New Mexico
1906	December 8	Montezuma Castle National Monument, Arizona
1906	December 8	Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona (redesignated from a National Monument 1962)
1907	March 4	Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, Louisiana (incorporated Chalmette National Historical Park 1978)
1907	May 6	Lassen Volcanic National Park, California (incorporated Cinder Cone and Lassen Peak NMs August 9, 1916)
1907	November 16	Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, New Mexico
1907	December 19	Tonto National Monument, Arizona
1907	March 11	Chaco Culture National Historical Park, New Mexico (incorporated Chaco Canyon National Monument Dec. 19, 1980)
1908	January 9	Muir Woods National Monument, California
1908	January 16	Pinnacles National Park, California (redesignated from a National Monument 2013)
1908	February 7	Jewel Cave National Monument, South Dakota
1908	April 16	Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah
1908	September 15	Tumacacori National Historical Park, Arizona (incorporated National Monument 1990)
1909	March 2	Olympic National Park, Washington (incorporated Mount Olympus National Monument)
1909	March 20	Navajo National Monument, Arizona
1909	July 12	Oregon Caves National Monument, Oregon
1909	July 31	Zion National Park, Utah (incorporated Zion National Monument 1956; incorporated Mukuntuweap National Monument 1918)
1910	March 23	Sitka National Historical Park, Alaska (redesignated from a National Monument 1972)
1910	May 11	Glacier National Park, Montana
1910	May 30	Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Utah
1910	June 23	Big Hole Battlefield National Battlefield, Montana (set aside as a military reserve in 1883; redesignated from a National Monument 1963)
1911	February 9	Lincoln Memorial, District of Columbia (dedicated 1922)
1911	May 24	Colorado National Monument, Colorado
1911	July 6	Devils Postpile National Monument, California
1913	October 14	Cabrillo National Monument, California
1915	January 26	Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
1915	October 4	Dinosaur National Monument, Colorado
1915	November 30	Walnut Canyon National Monument, Arizona
1916	February 11	Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico
1916	July 8	Acadia National Park, Maine (originally Sieur de Monts National Monument; redesignated Lafayette National Park 1919; redesignated Acadia National Park 1919)
1916	July 17	Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, Kentucky (originally Abraham Lincoln National Park; redesignated a National Historic Site 1939; renamed and redesignated 1959; redesignated a National Historical Park 2009)
1916	August 1	Haleakala National Park, Hawaii (detached from Hawaii National Park 1960)
1916	August 1	Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii (split into Haleakala National Park and Hawaii National Park 1960; latter redesignated Hawaii Volcanoes National Park 1961)
1916	August 9	Capulin Volcano National Monument, New Mexico (redesignated from Capulin Mountain National Monument 1987)
1917	February 18	Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, Georgia (originally a NBS; redesignated 1935)
1917	February 26	Denali National Park and Denali National Preserve, Alaska (incorporated Mount McKinley National Park and Denali National Monument by ANILCA 1980)
1917	March 2	Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, North Carolina
1918	September 24	Katmai National Park and Katmai National Preserve, Alaska (originally a National Monument, redesignated by ANILCA 1980)
1919	February 26	Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona (incorporated 1908 Grand Canyon National Monument)
1919	December 12	Scotts Bluff National Monument, Nebraska
1919	December 19	Yucca House National Monument, Colorado
1922	January 24	Great Basin National Park, Nevada (incorporated Lehman Caves National Monument 1986)
1922	October 14	Timpanogos Cave, Utah
1923	January 21	Aztec Ruins National Monument, New Mexico (redesignated 1928)
1923	March 2	Hovenweep National Monument, Utah
1923	May 31	Pipe Spring National Monument, Arizona
1923	June 8	Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah (redesignated Utah National Park 1924; redesignated from Bryce Canyon National Monument 1928)
1923	October 25	Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico (redesignated from Carlsbad Cave National Monument 1930)
1923	March 2	Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, Ohio (incorporated Mound City Group National Monument 1992)
1924	April 18	Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona
1924	May 2	Craters of the Moon National Monument and Craters of the Moon National Preserve, Idaho (preserve designated August 21, 2002)
1924	October 15	Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, Florida (redesignated from Fort Marion National Monument 1942)
1924	October 15	Fort Matanzas National Monument, Florida
1924	October 15	Fort Pulaski, Georgia
1924	December 9	Wupatki National Monument, Arizona
1925	February 26	Glacier Bay National Park and Glacier Bay National Preserve, Alaska (originally a National Monument; redesignated by ANILCA 1980)
1925	March 3	Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, Maryland (redesignated from Fort McHenry National Park 1939)
1925	March 4	Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial, Virginia (date restoration authorized; designated Custis-Lee Mansion 1955; redesignated 1972)
1925	November 21	Lava Beds National Monument, California
1925	March 3	Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota (acquired 1939)
1926	May 22	Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
1926	May 22	Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
1926	May 25	Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
1926	June 2	Moores Creek National Battlefield, North Carolina (originally a National Military Park; redesignated 1980)
1926	July 3	Petersburg National Military Park, Virginia (redesignated a National Battlefield 1962)
1927	February 14	Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County Battlefields Memorial National Military Park, Virginia
1927	March 2	Wright Brothers National Memorial, North Carolina (originally Kill Devil Hill Monument, redesignated 1953)
1927	March 3	Stones River National Battlefield, Tennessee (originally a National Military Park; redesignated 1980)
1929	February 21	Brices Cross Roads NBS, Mississippi
1929	February 26	Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming (incorporated 1929 National Park and Jackson Hole National Monument)
1929	March 4	Cowpens National Battlefield, South Carolina (transferred to NPS August 10, 1933; redesignated from a national battlefield site in 1972)
1929	April 12	Arches National Park, Utah (redesignated from a National Monument 1978)
1930	January 23	George Washington Birthplace National Monument, Virginia
1930	May 26	Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Arizona (redesignated from Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument 1990)
1930	May 29	George Washington Memorial Parkway, Virginia (incorporated Mount Vernon Memorial Highway May 23, 1928)
1930	June 18	Appomattox Court House National Historical Park, Virginia (authorized as a national historical monument 1935; redesignated 1954)
1930	December 30	Colonial National Historical Park, Virginia (authorized July 3, 1930; redesignated from a National Monument 1936)
1931	February 14	Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Arizona
1931	March 3	Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
1931	March 4	Fort Necessity National Battlefield, Pennsylvania (redesignated from a NBS 1961)
1932	March 17	Great Sand Dunes National Park and Great Sand Dunes National Preserve, Colorado (National Preserve authorized 2000; redesignated from a National Monument 2004)
1932	May 21	Theodore Roosevelt Island, District of Columbia
1933	January 18	White Sands National Monument, New Mexico
1933	February 11	Death Valley National Park, California (incorporated Death Valley National Monument)
1933	March 1	Saguaro National Park, Arizona (redesignated from a National Monument 1994)
1933	March 2	Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado (redesignated from a National Monument 1999)
1933	June 16	Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia
1933	August 22	Cedar Breaks National Monument, Utah
1933	March 2	Morristown National Historical Park, New Jersey
1933	August 10	Fort Donelson National Battlefield, Tennessee
1933	August 10	Kings Mountain National Military Park, South Carolina
1933	August 10	Tupelo National Battlefield, Mississippi
1933	August 10	National Capital Parks, District of Columbia (incorporated Baltimore-Washington Parkway 1975)
1934	May 30	Everglades National Park, Florida
1934	June 19	Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi (incorporated Ackia Battleground National Monument and Meriwether Lewis National Monument 1961)
1934	June 21	Monocacy National Battlefield, Maryland (reauthorized and redesignated from a National Military Park Oct. 21, 1976)
1934	June 26	Thomas Jefferson Memorial, District of Columbia (dedicated 1943)
1934	June 14	Ocmulgee National Monument, Georgia
1935	June 20	Big Bend National Park, Texas
1935	August 21	Fort Stanwix National Monument, New York (acquired 1973)
1935	August 29	Andrew Johnson National Historic Site, Tennessee (redesignated from a National Monument 1963)
1935	December 21	Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, Missouri (Gateway Arch authorized 1954)
1936	March 2	Richmond National Battlefield Park, Virginia
1936	March 19	Homestead National Monument of America, Nebraska
1936	May 26	Fort Frederica National Monument, Georgia
1936	June 2	Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, Ohio (redesignated 1972)
1936	June 29	Whitman Mission National Historic Site, Washington (redesignated from Whitman National Monument 1963)
1936	August 10	Joshua Tree National Park, California (incorporated Joshua Tree National Monument 1994)
1936	November 14	Catoctin Mountain Park, Maryland (renamed from Catoctin Recreational Demonstration Area 1954)
1936	November 14	Manassas National Battlefield Park, Virginia (redesignated from Bull Run Recreational Demonstration Area May 10, 1940)
1936	November 14	Prince William Forest Park, Virginia (redesignated from Chopawamsic Recreational Demonstration Area 1948)
1937	April 13	Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona
1937	August 2	Capitol Reef National Park, Utah (redesignated from a National Monument 1971)
1937	August 17	Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina
1937	August 25	Pipestone National Monument, Minnesota
1938	March 17	Salem Maritime National Historic Site, Massachusetts
1938	April 26	Channel Islands National Park, California (incorporated Channel Islands National Monument 1980)
1938	June 1	Saratoga National Historical Park, New York
1938	July 16	Fort Laramie National Historic Site, Wyoming (redesignated from a National Monument 1960)
1938	August 3	Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, Pennsylvania (redesignated from Hopewell Village National Historic Site 1985)
1938	September 23	Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, District of Columbia, Maryland, and West Virginia (date acquired; designated a National Monument 1961; incorporated in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park 1971)
1939	May 26	Federal Hall National Memorial, New York (redesignated from Federal Hall Memorial National Historic Site 1955)
1939	July 25	Tuzigoot National Monument, Arizona
1939	January 25	Badlands National Park, South Dakota (redesignated from a National Monument 1978)
1940	June 11	Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia
1940	December 18	Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site, New York
1940	August 12	Fort Washington Park, Maryland (transferred from War Dept. 1940)
1941	April 5	Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, North Carolina
1943	July 14	George Washington Carver National Monument, Missouri
1944	January 15	Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, New York
1944	June 30	Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, West Virginia (redesignated from a National Monument 1963)
1946	August 12	Castle Clinton National Monument, New York
1946	December 9	Adams National Historical Park, Massachusetts (originally Adams Mansion National Historic Site; redesignated Adams National Historic Site 1952; redesignated National Historical Park 1998)
1946	December 18	Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, Washington (administered under cooparative agreement starting 1990; redesignated from Coulee Dam National Recreation Area 1997)
1947	April 25	Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota (authorized Theodore Roosevelt National Memorial Park, redesignated 1978)
1948	April 28	Fort Sumter National Monument, South Carolina
1948	June 22	Hampton National Historic Site, Maryland
1948	June 28	Independence National Historical Park, Pennsylvania (incorporated Independence Hall National Historic Site, designated 1943)
1948	March 11	De Soto National Memorial, Florida
1948	June 19	Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Washington (redesignated from a National Monument 1961)
1949	February 14	San Juan National Historic Site, Puerto Rico
1949	June 8	Saint Croix Island National Monument, Maine (redesignated an International Historic Site 1984)
1949	October 25	Effigy Mounds National Monument, Iowa
1950	August 3	Greenbelt Park, Maryland
1950	September 21	Fort Caroline National Memorial, Florida
1952	March 4	Christiansted National Historic Site, Virgin Islands (redesignated from Virgin Islands National Historic Site 1961)
1952	July 9	Coronado National Memorial, Arizona
1954	June 28	Fort Union National Monument, New Mexico
1955	July 26	Pu’uhonua o HÅ,naunau National Historical Park, Hawaii (redesignated from City of Refuge National Historical Park 1978)
1955	December 6	Thomas Edison National Historical Park, New Jersey (originally Edison Home National Historic Site; incorporated in Edison National Historic Site 1962; redesignated 2009)
1956	April 2	Booker T. Washington National Monument, Virginia
1956	July 20	Pea Ridge National Military Park, Arkansas
1956	July 25	Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, Alabama
1956	August 2	Virgin Islands National Park, Virgin Islands
1958	April 18	Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah
1958	May 29	Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, Oregon (incorporated Fort Clatsop National Monument October 30, 2004)
1958	August 14	General Grant National Memorial, New York
1958	September 2	Grand Portage National Monument, Minnesota (designated a National Historic Site 1951)
1959	April 14	Minute Man National Historic Site, Massachusetts (redesignated a National Historical Park Sept. 21, 1959)
1959	September 5	Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, District of Columbia (dedicated 1997)
1960	April 22	Wilson's Creek National Battlefield, Missouri (redesignated from a National Park 1970)
1960	June 3	Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site, Colorado
1960	July 6	Arkansas Post National Memorial, Arkansas
1961	May 11	Russell Cave National Monument, Alabama
1961	August 7	Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts
1961	September 8	Fort Davis National Historic Site, Texas
1961	September 13	Fort Smith National Historic Site, Arkansas
1961	October 4	Piscataway Park, Maryland
1961	December 28	Buck Island Reef National Monument, Virgin Islands
1962	February 19	Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, Indiana
1962	April 27	Hamilton Grange National Memorial, New York
1962	July 25	Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, New York
1962	July 25	Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site, New York
1962	September 5	Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, District of Columbia (redesignated from Frederick Douglass Home 1988)
1962	September 13	Point Reyes National Seashore, California
1962	September 28	Padre Island National Seashore, Texas
1964	August 27	Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Missouri
1964	August 30	Fort Bowie National Historic Site, Arizona
1964	August 31	Fort Larned National Historic Site, Kansas
1964	August 31	Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site, Pennsylvania
1964	August 31	Johnstown Flood National Memorial, Pennsylvania
1964	August 31	Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site, New Hampshire
1964	August 31	John Muir National Historic Site, California
1964	September 11	Fire Island National Seashore, New York
1964	September 12	Canyonlands National Park, Utah
1964	October 8	Lake Mead National Recreation Area
1965	February 11	Curecanti National Recreation Area, Colorado
1965	March 15	Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, Texas (name changed from Sanford National Recreation Area, 1972; redesignated Nov. 28, 1990)
1965	May 15	Nez Perce National Historical Park, Idaho
1965	June 5	Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, Nebraska
1965	June 28	Pecos National Historical Park, New Mexico (incorporated Pecos National Monument June 27, 1990)
1965	July 30	Golden Spike National Historic Site, Utah (designated 1957)
1965	August 12	Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, Iowa
1965	August 21	Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument, Texas (formerly Alibates Flint Quarries and Texas Panhandle Pueblo Culture National Monument, redesignated 1978)
1965	August 28	Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site, Arizona
1965	September 1	Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Pennsylvania
1965	September 21	Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland
1965	October 22	Roger Williams National Memorial, Rhode Island
1965	November 11	Amistad National Recreation Area, Texas (redesignated 1990)
1965	November 8	Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area, California (Whiskeytown Unit)
1966	March 10	Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina
1966	June 20	Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site, Montana and North Dakota
1966	June 30	Chamizal National Memorial, Texas
1966	July 23	George Rogers Clark National Historical Park, Indiana
1966	September 9	San Juan Island National Historical Park, Washington
1966	October 15	Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, Montana and Wyoming
1966	October 15	Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
1966	October 15	Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
1966	October 15	Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, Virginia
1966	November 2	Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site, New York
1966	November 5	Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Indiana
1967	May 26	John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historic Site, Massachusetts
1967	November 27	Eisenhower National Historic Site, Pennsylvania
1968	April 5	Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site, Massachusetts
1968	October 2	Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway, Wisconsin
1968	October 2	Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Maine
1968	October 2	Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, Washington
1968	October 2	North Cascades National Park, Washington
1968	October 2	Redwood National Park, California
1968	October 2	Ross Lake National Recreation Area, Washington
1968	October 17	Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, North Carolina
1968	October 18	Biscayne National Park, Florida (incorporated Biscayne National Monument 1980)
1969	August 20	Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Colorado
1969	December 2	Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, Texas (redesignated from a National Historic Site 1980)
1969	December 2	William Howard Taft National Historic Site, Ohio
1970	September 26	Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin
1970	October 16	Fort Point National Historic Site, California
1970	October 16	Andersonville National Historic Site, Georgia
1970	October 21	Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan
1971	January 8	Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
1971	January 8	Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, District of Columbia, Maryland, and West Virginia (incorporated Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Monument)
1971	January 8	Gulf Islands National Seashore, Florida and Mississippi
1971	August 18	Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Illinois
1972	March 1	Buffalo National River, Arkansas
1972	August 17	Pu`ukoholÄ, Heiau National Historic Site, Hawaii
1972	August 25	Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site, Montana
1972	August 25	John D. Rockefeller, Jr., Memorial Parkway, Wyoming
1972	October 9	Longfellow House – Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site, Massachusetts (redesignated from Longfellow National Historic Site 2010)
1972	October 21	Hohokam Pima National Monument, Arizona
1972	October 21	Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial, Pennsylvania
1972	October 23	Fossil Butte National Monument, Wyoming
1972	October 23	Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia
1972	October 27	Gateway National Recreation Area, New York
1972	October 27	Golden Gate National Recreation Area, California
1973	December 28	Lyndon Baines Johnson Memorial Grove on the Potomac, District of Columbia
1974	March 7	Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Tennessee
1974	August 1	Constitution Gardens, District of Columbia
1974	October 1	Boston National Historical Park, Massachusetts
1974	October 11	Big Thicket National Preserve, Texas
1974	October 11	Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida
1974	October 26	Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site, North Dakota
1974	October 26	Clara Barton National Historic Site, Maryland
1974	October 26	Martin Van Buren National Historic Site, New York
1974	October 26	Springfield Armory National Historic Site, Massachusetts
1974	October 26	Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site, Alabama
1975	October 8	John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Oregon
1975	January 3	Canaveral National Seashore, Florida
1975	June 26	Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio (redesignated from a National Recreation Area 2000)
1976	June 30	Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, Alaska and Washington
1976	July 4	Valley Forge National Historical Park, Pennsylvania
1976	August 19	Ninety Six National Historic Site, South Carolina
1976	October 12	Obed WSR, Tennessee
1976	October 18	Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site, California
1976	October 18	Congaree National Park, South Carolina (redesignated from a National Monument 2003)
1977	May 26	Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site, New York
1978	June 5	Lowell National Historical Park, Massachusetts
1978	August 15	War in the Pacific National Historical Park, Guam
1978	August 15	Chattahoochee National Recreation Area, Georgia
1978	October 19	Fort Scott National Historic Site, Kansas
1978	November 10	Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, Texas (redesignated from a National Historic Site 2009)
1978	November 10	Rio Grande WSR, Texas
1978	November 10	San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, Texas
1978	November 10	Missouri National Recreational River, Nebraska
1978	November 10	Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site, Pennsylvania
1978	November 10	Friendship Hill National Historic Site, Pennsylvania
1978	November 10	Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, Virginia
1978	November 10	Middle Delaware National Scenic River, Pennsylvania
1978	November 10	New River Gorge National River, West Virginia
1978	November 10	Saint Paul's Church National Historic Site, New York (designated 1943)
1978	November 10	Thomas Stone National Historic Site, Maryland
1978	November 10	Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River, Pennsylvania
1978	November 10	Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve, Washington
1978	November 10	Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, Hawaii
1978	November 10	Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California
1978	December 1	Aniakchak National Monument and Aniakchak National Preserve, Alaska (originally Aniakchak National Monument; designated National Monument and National Preserve by ANILCA 1980)
1978	December 1	Bering Land Bridge National Preserve, Alaska (redesignated from a National Monument by ANILCA 1980)
1978	December 1	Cape Krusenstern National Monument, Alaska
1978	December 1	Gates of the Arctic National Park and Gates of the Arctic National Preserve, Alaska (originally a National Monument; redesignated by ANILCA 1980)
1978	December 1	Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska (redesignated from a National Monument by ANILCA 1980)
1978	December 1	Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska (redesignated from a National Park by ANILCA 1980)
1978	December 1	Lake Clark National Park and Lake Clark National Preserve, Alaska (originally a National Monument; redesignated by ANILCA 1980)
1978	December 1	Noatak National Preserve, Alaska (incorporated Noatak National Monument by ANILCA 1980)
1978	December 1	Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Wrangell-St. Elias National Preserve, Alaska (incorporated Wrangell-St. Elias National Monument by ANILCA 1980)
1978	December 1	Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve, Alaska (redesignated from Yukon-Charley National Monument by ANILCA 1980)
1979	October 12	Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site, Massachusetts
1980	September 9	World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, Hawaii (incorp. USS Arizona Memorial 2008)
1980	July 1	Vietnam Veterans Memorial, District of Columbia (dedicated 1982)
1980	October 10	Boston African American National Historic Site, Massachusetts
1980	October 10	Martin Luther King, Junior, National Historic Site, Georgia
1980	December 2	Alagnak Wild River, Alaska
1980	December 19	Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, New Mexico (proclaimed Gran Quivira National Monument 1909; renamed Salinas National Monument 1980, renamed 1988)
1980	December 22	Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Hawaii
1980	December 28	James A. Garfield National Historic Site, Ohio
1980	December 28	Women's Rights National Historical Park, New York
1983	March 28	Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia
1983	March 28	Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail, Mississippi
1983	May 23	Harry S Truman National Historic Site, Missouri (designated 1982)
1986	October 28	Korean War Veterans Memorial, District of Columbia (dedicated 1995)
1986	October 30	Steamtown National Historic Site, Pennsylvania
1987	September 30	Pennsylvania Avenue National Historic Site, District of Columbia (designated 1965)
1987	December 23	Jimmy Carter National Historic Site, Georgia
1987	December 31	El Malpais National Monument, New Mexico
1988	February 16	Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, Florida
1988	June 27	San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, California (formerly part of Golden Gate National Recreation Area)
1988	September 8	Charles Pinckney National Historic Site, South Carolina
1988	October 7	Natchez National Historical Park, Mississippi
1988	October 31	National Park of American Samoa, American Samoa
1988	October 31	Poverty Point National Monument, Louisiana
1988	November 18	Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, Minnesota
1988	November 18	City of Rocks National Reserve, Idaho
1988	November 18	Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, Idaho
1988	December 26	Bluestone National Scenic River, West Virginia
1988	December 26	Gauley River National Recreation Area, West Virginia
1989	October 2	Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site, Missouri
1990	June 27	Petroglyph National Monument, New Mexico
1990	October 31	Weir Farm National Historic Site, Connecticut
1991	May 24	Niobrara National Scenic River, Nebraska
1991	December 11	Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site, District of Columbia (designated 1982)
1992	February 24	Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve, Virgin Islands
1992	March 3	Manzanar National Historic Site, California
1992	August 26	Marsh-Billings National Historical Park, Vermont (redesignated Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park 1998)
1992	October 16	Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, Ohio
1992	October 21	Little River Canyon National Preserve, Alabama
1992	October 26	Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, Kansas
1992	October 27	Keweenaw National Historical Park, Michigan
1992	October 27	Great Egg Harbor Scenic and Recreational River, New Jersey
1992	October 26	Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida (proclaimed Fort Jefferson National Monument 1935)
1994	October 31	Mojave National Preserve, California
1994	October 31	New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, Louisiana
1994	November 2	Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Louisiana
1996	November 12	Washita Battlefield National Historic Site, Oklahoma
1996	November 12	Nicodemus National Historic Site, Kansas
1996	November 12	Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Kansas
1996	November 12	Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area, Massachusetts
1996	November 12	New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, Massachusetts
1998	November 6	Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, Arkansas
1998	November 6	Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site, Alabama
1999	November 29	Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, South Dakota
2000	October 11	First Ladies National Historic Site, Ohio
2000	October 24	Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park, California
2001	January 17	Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument, Virgin Islands
2001	January 19	Governors Island National Monument, New York
2001	September 19	Minidoka National Historic Site, Idaho (established Minidoka Internment National Monument August 1942; redesignated Minidoka National Historic Site 2008
2002	September 24	Flight 93 National Memorial, Pennsylvania
2002	December 19	Cedar Creek & Belle Grove National Historical Park, Virginia
2004	May 29	World War II Memorial, District of Columbia (authorized May 25, 1993)
2006	February 27	Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site, District of Columbia
2006	February 27	African Burial Ground National Monument, New York
2007	April 27	Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site, Colorado
2009	October 28	Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial, California
2010	October 22	River Raisin National Battlefield Park, Michigan
2010	December 14	President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace Home National Historic Site, Arkansas
2011	August 28	Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, District of Columbia
2011	November 1	Fort Monroe National Monument, Virginia
2011	November 7	Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, New Jersey
2012	October 8	Caesar Chavez National Monument, California
2013	March 25	Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument, Ohio
2013	March 25	First State National Historical Park, Delaware (originally a National Monument; rededicated a National Historical Park in 2014)
2013	March 25	Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park, Maryland (originally a National Monument; rededicated a National Historical Park in 2014)
2014	December 19	Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park, Massachusetts and Rhode Island
2014	December 19	Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, Nevada
2014	December 19	Valles Caldera National Preserve, New Mexico
2014	December 19	World War I Memorial, District of Columbia
2015	February 19	Pullman National Monument, Illinois
2015	February 24	Honouliuli National Monument, Hawaii
2015	July 10	Waco Mammoth National Monument, Texas
2015	November 10	Manhattan Project National Historical Park, New Mexico, Washington, and Tennesee
2016	February 12	Castle Mountains National Monument, California
2016	April 12	Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument, District of Columbia
2016	June 24	Stonewall National Monument, New York
2016	August 24	Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Maine
2017	January 10	Harriet Tubman National Historical Park, New York
2017	January 13	Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument, Alabama
2017	January 13	Freedom Riders National Monument, Alabama
2017	January 13	Reconstruction Era National Monument, South Carolina
2018	February 22	Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
2018	October 26	Camp Nelson National Monument, Kentucky
2019	February 15	Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
2019	March 12	Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Hawaii
2019	March 12	Tule Lake National Monument, California
2019	December 20	White Sands National Park, New Mexico
2020	September 18	Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial, District of Columbia
2020	September 22	Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument, Kentucky
2020	October 30	Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park, Missouri
2020	November 9	Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument, Mississippi
2020	December 27	New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia

 

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Source: https://national-park-posters.com/blogs/national-park-posters/national-park-service-anniversaries

Best Things to Do in Lassen Volcanic National Park

A steaming, hissing, and bubbling landscape, Lassen Volcanic will be unlike any other national park you'll ever visit. A place that will hold fast to your memory banks and won't let go for years to come. When you come here for the first time, get ready to discover a mystical place with a destructive and tormented history.

Located in the Cascade Range in northeastern California, for some strange reason, this is one of the lesser-known National Parks in America. This makes it a blessing in disguise for savvy travelers who will experience fewer crowds and untouched beauty. Established in 1916, Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to all four types of volcanoes found on Earth: composite, shield, plug dome, and cinder cone.

This vast area typically experiences two seasons – summer and winter. It seems there is little room for the in-between climates of spring and fall. Winter conditions can be expected from November through May, while much warmer conditions exist from June through October.

Lassen Peak is considered dormant at present, but the park remains an active volcanic area, with many hydrothermal spots. Scientists are quietly confident that it is not a question if Lassen Peak will erupt again, but when. The last eruption was in 1915.

Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway

Stop by the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center and pick up a printed road guide, then hit the open road for a 30-mile wondrous journey around the east side of the park. The road connects the northwest and southwest entrances of the park. Travel in either direction and expect to stop and get out often, as there are numerous roadside highlights offering spectacular views. You can also download a roadside audio tour or purchase the audio CD at park stores, the visitor center, or online. This road passes many of the highlights described below.

Sulphur Works

As one of the park's main hydrothermic features, it can be described as a bubbling mudpot that is always performing a show. Spewing hot thermal air and gases, do not be deterred by the heady aroma of rotten eggs – that's just part of the sulfur fun. Roadside interpretive plaques explain the history behind the area; the mining operations and hydrothermal history. It is located in the southwest section of Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Trek the Numerous Trails

You will want to bring a good map of the park with you, as many of the trails overlap and it's easy to get confused as to which trail you're on. One of the more popular hikes is Nobles Emigrant Trail. Part of the California National Historic Trail, it is the site where more than 250,000 emigrants traveled to gold fields and rich farmlands in California back in the mid-1800s. It was the greatest mass migration in American history. And of course, there is the epic climb to Lassen Peak.

Visit the Historic Loomis Museum

Built in 1927, this museum is housed in a historic structure and is small, but a very interesting way to learn about the history of the park. Benjamin Loomis built it to house his collection of geologic exhibits and park photos. Ranger-led programs are often held in the plaza outside, and the Lily Pond Interpretive Trail is just across the road. Note: the museum is only open in the summer.

Lake Helen

This high-elevation lake with its strikingly blue water is the perfect place for honing your photographer's skills. Stunning views of Lassen Peak in the background make for an amazing setting for the ultimate shot, especially during magic hour (right around dusk, when the light hits the mountain just right). Be prepared for colder weather much of the year – in fact, ice could remain on the lake into early summer! Lake Helen was named after Helen Tanner Brodt, the first woman to climb Lassen Peak back in 1864. It is situated 8,200 feet above sea level, and the drive up is phenomenal.

Manzanita Lake

Located in the northwest section of the park, Manzanita Lake is a popular destination for camping, fishing, kayaking and in the winter, cross country skiing and show shoeing. Warmer temperatures invite the visitor to swim in the shadow of a spectacular, and as of now, quiet volcano. This area makes a great home base for exploring Lassen Volcanic National Park, with a large campground and modern facilities and cabins. Hike the 1.5-mile trail around the lake for the most amazing views. Other wintertime activities involving sledding the small hills on the lake's northern shore and in the Chaos Jumbles Area.

Destruction Area

When Lassen Peak last erupted in 1915, gigantic rocks rained down from the sky, hot gases and spewing ash decimated the surrounding forests, and a massive violent mudflow was unleashed that flooded the river valley. Many of the rocks in the area were literally tossed of the volcano and flung here from the blast of the eruption. Walk the Interpretive Trail and get a sense of what happened a little over 100 years ago. It is the best way to truly appreciate the significance of this National Park. It is an easy ½ mile long path and is accessible to strollers and wheelchairs.

Bumpass Hell

Despite the name, this attraction is actually a lot of fun to explore. It is the largest area of hydrothermal features in the park. Here you can walk among the bubbling, thumping hissing symphony of sights and sounds that show off the amazing features of this volcanic valley. The Bumpass Hell Trail is 3 miles roundtrip, with about 300 feet of elevation gain. Just be sure to stay on the boardwalk for safety reasons – venturing off of the trail is extremely dangerous. This area does see a lot of snowfall each year, and because of this, the trail does not typically open until July.

Kings Creek Falls

With the areas of destruction come the immense beauty of a roaring waterfall and peaceful meadows. The Kings Creek Falls Trail is 2.3 miles roundtrip with about 500 feet of elevation gain. Once you reach the falls, you will see a spectacular water drop of 70 feet on a sturdy overlook perched on a cliff. There are two ways to reach the falls, but by far the better of the two is the Upper Cascades Trail. The Cascades Foot Section is a good way to make your return journey from the falls, with recently-built rock steps that offer gorgeous views.

Click here to see the Lassen Volcanic National Park poster.

Rob Decker is a photographer and graphic artist who had the rare privilege of studying under Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park when he was just 19 years old. Now, Rob is on a journey to explore and photograph all 61 of America's National Parks. He's creating WPA-style posters to help people celebrate their own national park adventures — as well as encourage others to get out and explore!

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Best Things to Do in Mammoth Cave National Park

There's something magical about the subterranean world of south central Kentucky, where the world's largest known cave system lurks like a grand peculiar labyrinth, ready to explore. Its mysterious system of 400 miles of passageways and rooms captures the imagination of all who enter. Explorers are discovering new passages even today.

Located east of Brownsville in the central part of the state, the caves are home to 130 animal species and have been used by humankind for thousands of years, with fascinating characters who entered the misty depth and led interesting lives.

In addition, there are river valleys, historic churches, sinkholes, and vast forestland to discover. Activities can be done here year-round, and events are always happening at this UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve.

Ranger-led Tours and Talks

All year round is a good time to go. It's underground, after all, so no having to deal with the elements. The park offers many different tours, focusing on the history, beauty, passageways, and other discovery tours showcasing the many different aspects of the caves. There are also cave tours made accessible for wheelchair users.

Talks at the visitor center are often held on the back porch and are a nice 10-minute introduction to a variety of topics about plants and animals, history, scientific research, among others. Evening talks meet at the amphitheater between the lodge and the camp store.

The Wild Cave Tour

The most in-depth tour offered at Mammoth Cave, you will literally be crawling on your hands and knees for a portion of the tour. But don't worry, you won't be in such a compromising position for long, and you'll be given overalls and knee pads to protect you and your clothing, helmets with lamps at the ready, bandanas, and gloves. These guys don't mess around when it comes to your comfort and safety. Offered spring through fall, it is six hours of fun with lunch included. Those who are afraid of heights, are claustrophobic, in ill health, or under 16 should not go on this tour. Reservations are required; be sure to check the website for the latest.

Hiking Trails Galore

Easy access trails for those who like their hiking on the more casual side will find 18 miles of well-kept trails on the south side of Green River. Along the way, one can explore the history of the park and discover its unique geology. Around the visitor center, seven miles of trails feature scenic river views, ridgetops, cave-fed springs, cemeteries, sinkholes, a historic train engine. Over 10 miles of forested trails on the south side feature the Cedar Sink Trail, Sloan's Crossing Pond Walk, Sand Cave Trail, and Turnhole Bend Nature Trail.

The Finest Backcountry Hiking

The best way to get away from the crowds is to grab a backpack with all of the needed provisions and head for the remote wilderness. A dozen scenic and peaceful campsites are up for grabs should you wish to make it a multi-day trip. To get here, a minute-long ferry ride is all that is needed, but plan for possible delays, as the ferry can only accommodate one car at a time, and no RVs. From there, take your pick of several trails, some of which will take you near water sources, such as First and Second Creek trails. If you really want to feel like you're alone in the wilderness, take Collie Ridge trail, and Homestead is a great place to camp. Be sure to get your free backcountry pass from the Visitor Center.

Go on a Horseback Riding Tour

This park has plenty of trails and campgrounds that can accommodate our trusty horse friends. Whether you have your own horse or opt for paying for a wonderful horseback riding experience. There are over 60 miles of backcountry trails north of Green River, just for this type of adventure. Grab a free trail map, and ride side saddle through the wilderness.

Explore the Trails on Two Wheels

Biking enthusiasts are not left hanging in Mammoth Cave National Park. Here in the backcountry, there are four designated off-road trails specifically for mountain biking. Explore the Mammoth Cave Railroad and Big Hollow trails, both running about nine miles in length. The Maple Springs Trail is an easy one mile, while the White Oak Trail is about 2.5 miles long. Street bikes are permitted on all paved roads in the park, and mountain bikes are allowed on all administrative roads.

Get Out on the Water

The Green and Nolin Rivers run through Mammoth Cave National Park, offering many opportunities for boating, canoeing, and kayaking. There are three river access points in the park and are accessible by car and are located on the south side of the Green River: the Dennison Ferry, Houchin Ferry, and Green River Ferry. This is an amazing opportunity to watch for wildlife, explore the springs and river bluffs, and even do some fishing. Anglers can expect to find bluegill, catfish, muskellunge, perch, crappie, bass, and other game fish. You can also paddle or boat your way to one of the islands to camp; there is also camping at the Houchin Ferry Campground.

The Best Stargazing is Here

People have used the stars for thousands of years to help in navigation, to keep track of time, or to simply ponders the wonders of the universe. Mammoth Cave is an ideal spot for such a pastime. Find a wide-open space, such as a grassy field, to get the best view. The parking lot at the visitor center is also a popular place. Try to avoid areas with artificial light, and carry a flashlight with red lights that will help you navigate to your spot without disturbing your night vision. Here, you don't need a telescope; however, having a good pair of binoculars may aid you in your nighttime viewing. Ranger-led stargazing programs are offered throughout the year, as well, and offer a unique opportunity to gain an appreciation for the park's dark sky environment.

Click here to see the Mammoth Cave National Park

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Rob Decker is a photographer and graphic artist who had the rare privilege of studying under Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park when he was just 19 years old. Now, Rob is on a journey to explore and photograph all 61 of America's National Parks. He's creating WPA-style posters to help people celebrate their own national park adventures — as well as encourage others to get out and explore!

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