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

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

Test Your National Park Knowledge - Quiz 1

National Park Quiz Number One

1) What Was America's first national park?

Acadia National Park (Maine)
Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming)
Zion National Park (Utah)

 

2) Which one of these national parks was formed by the Colorado River?

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (Colorado)
Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
Zion National Park (Utah)

 

3) What is the snowiest national park?

Glacier National Park (Montana)
Mount Rainier National Park (Washington)
Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
Yosemite National Park (California)

 

4) What was the first national Park to feature a cave?

Carlsbad Caverns National Park (New Mexico)
Great Basin National Park (Nevada)
Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky)
 Wind Cave National Park (South Dakota)

 

5) Which of these national parks bid to host the Olympic Games?

Acadia National Park (Maine)
Glacier National Park (Montana)
 Olympic National Park (Washington)
Yosemite National Park (California)

 

Click Here to Check Your Answers!

Source: https://national-park-posters.com/blogs/national-park-posters/test-your-national-park-knowledge-quiz-1

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. With an existing backlog of work, budget cuts and significant closures of most parks, 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 all enjoy them when they open back up!

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!

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

Best Things to do at Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake inspires awe. Fed by rain and snow, it's the deepest lake in the United States and one of the most pristine on earth. Artists, photographers, and sightseers gaze in wonder at its blue water and stunning setting atop the Cascade Mountain Range.

Crater Lake is also one of the snowiest inhabited places in the US. Each winter, deep snow forces the closure of the park's Rim Drive and North Entrance to cars -- and Rim Drive becomes a trail for skiing and snowshoeing; the North Entrance road becomes a snowmobile trail. These roads close for the season with the first big October snowstorm, or on November 1, whichever comes first. Plowing closed roads typically begins in mid-April. But it takes a long time to open them up and there are no set dates. The North Entrance and West Rim Drive can open as early as mid-May or as late as the end of June. The East Rim Drive fully opens sometime between mid-June and late July.

My name is Rob Decker and I'm a photographer and graphic artist with a single great passion for America's National Parks! Crater Lake is an amazing place and well worth the visit. If you're a winter sports enthusiast, then go early. Otherwise, I'd recommend that you go during the warmer summer months when all of the activities will be available to you during your stay -- sometimes roads, trails and campgrounds are closed due to snow. So if this is your first time to the park, or your returning after many years, here are some things you should know about Crater Lake National Park!

Winter Activities

The park receives an average of 43 feet of snow each year, making the winter months challenging. However, if you're prepared, the parks winter trails and unplowed roads provide skiers and snowshoers with access to open slopes, dense forests, and breathtaking views, making Crater Lake ideal for both day-trippers and backcountry visitors.

Ranger Led Snowshoe Walks

Ranger-guided snowshoe walks become increasingly popular each year. The walks generally last two hours, and cover 1 to 2 miles of moderate-to-strenuous terrain. The ranger determines the route but most walks begin at Rim Village and continue through the sub-alpine forests and meadows along the lake rim. The park provides snowshoes at no cost or you are welcome to use your own. Previous snowshoeing experience is not necessary but coming prepared with warm clothing and water-resistant footwear is required. All participants must be at least 8 years of age. Space on each tour is limited, and advance reservations are required. As winter approaches, call the park's visitor center at 541-594-3100 for information on how to sign up. The visitor center is open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm except on December 25. Organized groups may be able to arrange for a separate tour, if staff is available.

Sledding

Many opportunities for sledding can be found throughout the park but there are no designated sled hills or snow play areas. Select a location with a gentle slope that is free of trees and other obstacles. The slope should end with a flat landing for safe and easy stopping. One popular spot is the open meadow south of Crater Lake Lodge. For your safety, sledding, tubing, and tobogganing are prohibited in the caldera and on all roadways within the park where vehicle traffic may occur and in all parking lots.

Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding

Snowboarding and downhill skiing are allowed in the park but are absolutely prohibited in the caldera. The park does not have any chairlifts. All downhill skiers and snowboarders must hike up to a destination before riding down a slope. Be familiar with the up and down routes, and potential dangers. Know how to self-rescue. Assisted rescues in avalanche areas, and from places hard to reach may take more than 24 hours. Avalanche terrain exists in the park but there is no formal avalanche forecasting. If you choose to be in avalanche areas carry probes, snow shovels, and avalanche transceivers. Taking an avalanche course is recommended.

Bicycling

Each year, increasing numbers of cyclists come to Crater Lake National Park to ride around the lake on the physically demanding, 33 mile Rim Drive. Steep hills at high elevation may encourage even the most fit riders to pause at many of the road's thirty overlooks and pull-outs. The payoff however is spectacular scenery, viewed at a pace that few visitors choose to take enough time for.

Rules and Safety

Riders face many hazards including high speeds on steep downhill sections, rocks, animals, potholes and other road hazards as well as heavy traffic volume. Only cyclists experienced at riding with auto traffic should consider road biking at Crater Lake. Park roads seldom have shoulders and no bike lanes exist. Bicycles are not permitted on park trails. Water is available only at Rim Village, Park Headquarters, and Mazama Village.

Mountain Biking

Crater Lake has one dirt road where mountain biking is allowed. The Grayback Drive provides eight miles of unpaved and vehicle free roadway. Those seeking the thrill of single track trails will have to look outside the park. Crater Lake does not offer any single track mountain biking trails.

Winter Fat Tire Biking

The activity of fat tire biking is growing in popularity in many winter recreation areas. But current park regulation prohibit the use and operation of fat tire bikes on winter trails within the park.

Crater Lake Boat Tours

The best way to see Crater Lake is by boat! For visitors seeking to explore Wizard Island, we offer either a boat cruise or a quick shuttle ride straight to the island. There is a 2.2-mile round-trip trail (down to the boat dock and back) that drops approximately 700 ft. Due to the strenuous nature of this trail, we do not recommend these tours to anyone with medical or physical issues. The hike down to the dock takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

Camping

Lost Creek Campground is a small, tents-only campground located on the road to Pinnacles Overlook, three miles from the rim of Crater Lake. It usually opens in early July and closes in mid-October. In July and August, the campground typically fills by mid-afternoon.  Each site has a picnic table and bear-resistant food locker. Mazama Campground is located 7 miles south of Rim Village near Highway 62 in a forested setting. The campground is open only during the summer. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and bear-resistant food locker..

Backcountry Camping

Crater Lake National Park has over 90 miles of hiking trails that are accessible in the summer months, providing visitors a great way to discover the park. Come prepared to hike at elevations in changing weather patterns. Park elevations range from around 4,500 feet to almost 9,000 feet above sea level, and depending on the time of year, weather conditions can go from sunny and clear to heavy snow in just a few hours. If you're new to backcountry camping and travel, seek the proper training and advice of an experienced friend or park ranger. Always tell a friend your plans and remember safety is your responsibility.

Backcountry Camping Permits

A backcountry camping permit is required year-round for all overnight trips in the backcountry. The free permit is only valid for the dates, locations, and party size specified. Permits are not required for day hiking; however, day hikers must observe all backcountry regulations. All backcountry camping permits are issued free of charge and must be obtained in person, during business hours. You must have a valid park entrance pass for the entire length of your trip. For more information about backcountry camping permits, contact the backcountry office by phone at (541) 594-3060.

Ranger-Led Activities & Exhibits

The Sinnott Memorial Overlook, perched on a rock ledge behind the Rim Visitor Center, features an indoor exhibit room and an open parapet with spectacular lake views. The overlook has a relief model and exhibits on the park's geology and lake research. The overlook is open daily (weather permitting) from late June through October. Hours are 9:30 am to 6:30 pm in July and August, 9:30 am to 5:00 pm in June and September, and 10:00 am to 4:00 pm in October. Unfortunately, the overlook is not accessible to people with limited mobility; it is located down a steep, historic walkway with stairs. Ranger talks are presented daily from late June to late September.

Click here to see the Crater Lake 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!

Source: https://national-park-posters.com/blogs/national-park-posters/best-things-to-do-at-crater-lake-national-park

Best Things To Do in Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park was established in 1906 to preserve and interpret the archeological heritage of the Ancestral Pueblo people who made it their home for over 700 years, from 600 to 1300 CE. Today, the park protects nearly 5,000 known archeological sites, including 600 cliff dwellings. These sites are some of the most notable and best preserved in the United States.

My name is Rob Decker and I'm a photographer and graphic artist with a single great passion for America's National Parks! I've been to 51 of our 62 National Parks — and Mesa Verde is a unique park, given its historical and archeological significance. I have explored most areas of the park — so I'm ready to help! So if this is your first time to the park, or your returning after many years, here are some of the best things to do in Mesa Verde National Park!

Self-Guided Tours

Spruce Tree House - Best-Preserved Cliff Dwelling

You can observe Spruce Tree House from viewpoints near the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum. Rangers are available at the overlook to answer questions and share information.

Mesa Top Loop Road - Auto Tour - 700 Years of Mesa Verde History

A 6-mile driving tour with short, paved trails. Twelve easily-accessible sites, including surface dwellings and cliff dwelling overlooks. Highlights include Square Tower House, Sun Point Overlook, and views of Cliff Palace from Sun Point and Sun Temple stops.

Far View Sites Complex - Five Mesa Top Villages & Far View Reservoir

Far View House plus four other villages and a dry reservoir on a level 3/4-mile (1.2 km) unpaved trail. Four miles north of the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum.

Step House - Pithouse, Petroglyphs and Cliff Dwelling

 

A 100 foot descent and ascent on a winding path. Total walking distance is about one mile (1.6 km) round-trip. Allow 45 minutes to one hour. Trail begins near the Wetherill Mesa Kiosk.

Badger House Trail - Trail to Four Mesa Top Sites

The 2.25 mile round-trip trail through Badger House Community surface sites begins at Wetherill Mesa Kiosk. Your walk through this area is a journey through 600 years of prehistory. Combination gravel and paved trail.

Cliff Dwelling Guided Tours

Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and Long House can only be visited by taking a ranger-guided tour which are very popular. A tour of Long House, on Wetherill Mesa, can be taken on the same day as a Cliff Palace or Balcony House tour. Tours can be strenuous. There are no height or age restrictions for tours, but children must be capable of walking the extent of the trails, climbing ladders, and negotiating steps independently. All infants must be carried in backpacks while on tours and adults carrying children in backpacks must be able to maintain mobility and balance. Tour tickets for Balcony House, Cliff Palace, and Long House must be purchased in person. Tour tickets sell out quickly, but can be purchased up to two days in advance.

Cliff Palace - Mesa Verde's Largest Cliff Dwelling

This one-hour, ranger-guided tour involves climbing five, 8-10 foot ladders, on a 100 foot vertical climb. Total walking distance is about 1/4-mile, round-trip. The tour begins at Cliff Palace Overlook, an 23-mile, one-hour drive from the Visitor and Research Center.

Cliff Palace Twilight Tours

Enjoy an intimate, leisurely encounter with Mesa Verde's largest cliff dwelling. Dramatic sun lighting will appeal to both amateur and professional photographers as well as those seeking a deeper connection with this extraordinary archeological treasure.

Balcony House - Adventurous Cliff Dwelling Tour

This one-hour, ranger-guided tour involves climbing a 32-foot ladder, crawling through a 12-foot long tunnel, and climbing up a 60-foot open rock face with two 10-foot ladders to exit the site. The tour begins at the Balcony House parking area, a 25-mile, 1-1/4 hour drive from the Visitor Center.

Long House - Mesa Verde's Most In-Depth Tour

 

Starting at the Wetherill Mesa information kiosk, this two-hour ranger-guided tour involves hiking at least 2.25 miles round-trip, and climbing two 15-foot ladders within the site. The hike has an elevation gain of about 130 feet. The tour ends at the Long House trailhead, giving you the choice of returning to the kiosk or exploring more of Wetherill Mesa on your own. Allow about 2.5 hours (total) for tour and return to kiosk.

Half-Day Guided Bus Tours

Mid-April to mid-October Mesa Verde National Park concessioner, Aramark Leisure, conducts guided bus tours that offer modern views of the Ancestral Pueblo people. Tours include the 700 Years and Far View Explorer Tours. Tickets may be purchased at the Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center, Far View Lodge and Terrace, and Morefield Campground.

Balcony House Sunrise Tour

Rise before dawn, and experience the magic of Balcony House at sunrise! For centuries, Pueblo farmers have been observing the sky and the change of seasons. Take the Sunrise Tour of Balcony House at summer solstice or fall equinox and join in the long tradition of skywatching in Mesa Verde. On this 90-minute tour, you will climb a 32-foot ladder, crawl through and 18-inch wide and 12-foot long tunnel, and climb up a 60-foot open cliff face with stone steps and two 10-foot ladders to exit.

Cliff Palace Early Bird Tour

Looking for an early morning adventure? This daily, early bird tour offers the benefits of a smaller group size, cooler temperatures, and the ability to reserve a tour of Cliff Palace in advance with online reservations! On this 60-minute tour, you will descend uneven stone steps and climb four ladders, with an elevation change of 100 feet. Total walking distance is 1/4 mile.

Evening Programs

Morefield Campground Evening Program

In 1907, archeologist Jesse Fewkes began the first evening campfire talks in the history of the National Park Service at Mesa Verde. That tradition continues today. Enjoy a free, 45-60 minute presentation each evening by rangers at the Morefield Amphitheater (weather permitting). The amphitheater is located at the end of the road in Morefield Campground. Bring a flashlight. Program is free and offered each evening.

Bird Watching

Mesa Verde National Park is home to several distinct habitats. The types of species which you will encounter depends on the habitat present. If you are an avid birder, make sure to purchase a copy of the brochure, "Checklist of the Birds." This will help you locate where species are found in the park. The listing of birds in this page will get you started as a bird watcher in Mesa Verde. Take the Petroglyph Point or Spruce Canyon Trail and look for warblers, flycatchers, woodpeckers, jays, hawks, chickadees, titmice, and other species. The Knife Edge Trail also has good birding. If you are lucky, you may see a peregrine falcon or a golden eagle soar from its nest out across the Montezuma Valley. During the summer months, you can walk the Soda Canyon Overlook Trail near Balcony House, or the short trail to the Park Point lookout. The Park Point area is a good place to see hawks, towhees, grouse and eagles, in addition to the many species listed above. In the fall, you may want to take the Knife Edge Trail early in the morning to catch migrating warblers and hummingbirds feeding on the Indian Paint Brush. During winter months, be on the lookout for chickadees, nuthatches, an occasional brown creeper, canyon wrens, woodpeckers, flickers, and jays during your Spruce Tree House tour. Turkey vultures usually arrive in late March and leave in early October, so the large black birds you see will likely be common ravens or the vivid black-billed magpie.

Photography

Picture Taking Tips

Some cliff dwellings are open only from late spring through early fall. During the off-season, photos may be taken from the overlooks above the cliff dwellings, weather permitting. Most of the cliff dwellings are best photographed in mid-to-late afternoon. If you have an adjustable lens we suggest you close your lens down at least 1/2 stop from what the photo meter indicates (spot meters excepted). For example, in black and white photography the front walls of Cliff Palace will give your meter a false light reading. We suggest you bracket your settings on Cliff Palace exposures. 

Best Times to Photograph by Season

June to September - 3:45 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. October to November - 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. December to March - 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. April to May - 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. During mid and late fall and early and mid spring the sun is lower in the southern sky and more light strikes the cliff dwellings. Winter light is generally less bright. On overcast days the soft light allows for photos to be taken that will show good details and subtle colors. During the winter months there is less vegetation obstructing views from the overlooks after the scrub oak has lost its leaves for the season.

Stargazing

While not offered as a guided activity, Mesa Verde National Park provides wonderful opportunities for stargazing. Since there are no large cities in the Four Corners region, there is very little artificial light to detract from the stars in the night sky. Most nights the skies are clear and full of stars. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way. The locations recommended for stargazing in the park are listed below:

Far View Lodge

The only lodging available in the park from mid-April to mid-October. Each room has a balcony where guests can see for miles. For visitor safety, this area is well-lit. You may want to seek out a darker place, if this obstructs your view of the stars.

Morefield Campground

The only place to camp in the park from mid-May to mid-October. Located in the Morefield Valley, this is an especially place good for looking at stars since there is little artificial light. Join a ranger at the Morefield Amphitheater for the nightly (Memorial Day through Labor Day) campfire program. Bring a flashlight for the walk back to your campsite.

Montezuma or Mancos Overlooks

These are really the best areas in the park for stargazing. If you are staying outside of the park or want to get away from artificial lights, both of these overlooks along the Main Park Road provide views of the twinkling lights of the valley towns and the stars above. Unfortunately, these areas are not available for overnight camping.

Click here to see the Mesa Verde 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 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!

Source: https://national-park-posters.com/blogs/national-park-posters/best-things-to-do-in-mesa-verde-national-park

National Parks of the Grand Circle

Here's Your Itinerary to Visit the National Parks of the Grand Circle

If you live near Salt Lake City, Denver, Phoenix, Albuquerque or Las Vegas, you can hop on the Grand Circle in about 3 to 4 hours and start your National Parks of the Grand Circle Tour! Of course, you can also fly in to any of those cities to start your adventure.

No matter where you start, you can easily visit nine national parks with relative ease. And there's really no better way to see this country than from the open road! At most of these parks, you can either camp or take advantage of lodging inside or nearby.

The Grand Circle features some of the most spectacular national parks in the American West: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, Arches, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Mesa Verde, Petrified Forest and Grand Canyon. Great Basin National Park is also part of the Grand Circle, but is a bit out of the way -- I'll talk about an option to visit there near the end of this post.

Let's start our Grand Circle Tour from Las Vegas, which provides easy access to Zion National Park! It's less than 3 hours from Las Vegas to Springdale, Utah, where you will find plenty of options for lodging and camping.

Zion National Park

At Zion National Park you can gaze up at massive sandstone towers and cliffs of cream, pink, and red that soar into a brilliant blue sky. Or, explore the Virgin River in a narrow slot canyon, which I highly recommend if the conditions are favorable. Hiking The Narrows is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Established in 1919, today you can follow the paths where ancient native people and pioneers walked and experience the special places they left behind. Learn about the park's plant and animal life, geology, ecosystems, and other natural features.

Check out the Best Things to do at Zion National Park here…

As a photographer, I try to stay at least two nights in each park to make sure I have time to explore and to hopefully have good weather on at least one of the days. But if your time is short, you can try to get to Zion early, spend the day there and part of the next before heading on to Bryce Canyon National Park.

Bryce Canyon National Park

It's just a quick hour and twenty minute drive to Bryce Canyon National Park from Zion where you'll be able to see the world's largest collection of Hoodoos! Plenty of camping and lodging options here as well.

Established in 1928, at Bryce Canyon National Park you can explore the world's largest collection of hoodoos, fins, walls and windows. These hoodoos, odd-shaped pillars of rock left standing from the forces of erosion, and  "frost-wedging", which over time shatters and pries rock apart. In addition, rain water, which is naturally acidic, slowly dissolves the limestone, rounding off edges and washing away debris.

Click here to learn more about Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is one of my all-time favorite national parks, and I highly recommend getting to the rim of the canyon for sunset. And sunrise is actually even more magical! You can hike down into the canyon or stay high along the rim. Either way, there are spectacular views everywhere you go. 

In addition to hiking and biking, Canyon Trail Rides wranglers lead 2-hour and 3-hour horse and mule rides into the Bryce Amphitheater along a dedicated horse trail and the Peek-a-boo Loop Trail. It's a great way to see the park!

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef is about a two hour drive from Bryce Canyon. Depending on your timing, this is a park where you can make a shorter stop in the Fruita Historic District and take a short hike and continue on to Moab where you'll visit Arches and Canyonlands. Or you can camp inside the park in the Fruita Historic District, too. If you're looking for lodging, the closest place is in the town of Torrey or at the Capitol Reef Resort, just outside the park.

Established in 1971, Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden treasure of cliffs, canyons, domes and bridges. It lies in the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline – or wrinkle – extending almost 100 miles. Archaic hunters and gatherers first settled here. Explorers, Mormon pioneers and others arrived in the 1800s, settled in what is now the Fruita Rural Historic District and planted orchards of apples, pears, and peaches. 

Click here to learn more about Capitol Reef National Park

Next up is Moab, home to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. It's about a 2 hour drive from Capitol Reef -- and each park deserves a full day of exploration. Neither park has lodging so you'll want to stay in Moab. Both parks do have campgrounds.

Arches National Park

Established in 1971, visitors to Arches National Park discover a landscape of contrasting colors, landforms and textures unlike any other in the world. Perched high above the Colorado River, the park has over 2,000 natural stone arches – including the world-famous Delicate Arch – in addition to hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive fins and giant balanced rocks, each carved and shaped by eons of weathering and erosion.

Check out the Best Things to do at Arches National Park here…

Canyonlands

Established in 1964, today at Canyonlands National Park you can explore a wilderness of countless canyons and fantastically formed buttes carved by the Green and Colorado rivers and their tributaries. Divided into four districts, the Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and the rivers themselves, these areas share a primitive desert atmosphere, but each offers unique opportunities for sightseeing and adventure. 

Check out the Best Things to do at Canyonlands National Park here…

Now that we've completed our tour of Utah's “Mighty Five” -- it's on to Colorado and a 3 hour drive to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park exposes you to some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. With two million years to work, the Gunnison River, along with the weathering forces of nature, has sculpted this vertical wilderness of rock, water, and sky. Established in 1999, this deep, steep and narrow canyon is big enough to be overwhelming, yet intimate enough to feel the pulse of time. 

From here, we'll head south to Mesa Verde National Park. This is a scenic 3 hour and 45 minute drive, and Telluride is a great place to stop for lunch or take a break. Alternatively, you could go through Ouray, Silverton and Durango, which will add 20 minutes or so to the drive.

Check out the Best Things to do at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park...

Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park offers a spectacular look into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people who made it their home for over 700 years, from AD 600 to 1300. Established in 1906, today the park protects nearly 5,000 known archaeological sites, including 600 cliff dwellings, mesa top pueblos, farming terraces, towers, reservoirs, and check dams. These sites are some of the most notable and best preserved in the United States.

There's lodging and camping in the park -- and when I was there last, we had an excellent meal and the Metate Room Restaurant -- and there's an amazing view from every table!

Check out the Best Things to do at Mesa Verde National Park here…

Petrified Forest is our next stop on the Grand Circle, and you're looking at a four hour drive, most of it through New Mexico, then on into Arizona.

Petrified Forest National Park

Established in 1962, Petrified Forest National Park is best known for its fossils, especially fallen trees from the Late Triassic period of the Mesozoic era, about 225 million years ago. This was a time when the climate was humid and subtropical. The sediments containing the fossil logs are part of the widespread and colorful Chinle Formation. More than 600 archaeological sites, including petroglyphs, have also been discovered in the park. 

There's no lodging at Petrified Forest National Park, and only backcountry camping (no facilities). The nearest lodging is in the town of Holbrook, about 26 miles away.

Depending on your timing, you can see Petrified Forest National Park in one day. One main road bisects the park, and you can stop along the way and see many of the park's main points of interest.

Click Here to Learn More About Petrified Forest National Park.

Now it's on to our final destination: The Grand Canyon!

Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon overwhelms our senses through its immense size: 277 river miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and a mile deep. Grand Canyon National Park, established in 1919, exposes unique combinations of geologic color and erosional forms. You can explore the canyon by mule, bicycle, by hiking or backpacking or on whitewater and smooth water raft trips along the Colorado River. The South Rim is the most easily accessed and provides numerous places to view the canyon from above. For the more adventurous, you can hike - or take a mule ride - down into the canyon!

Check out the Best Things to do at Grand Canyon National Park here…

The Great Basin National Park Option

Great Basin National Park is a bit out of the way, but if you're inclined to go, I suggest you add that stop in before or after Zion National Park. Visiting Great Basin will add at least an extra five hours to your overall drive time. There's camping in the park, but no lodging -- and there aren't too many places to stay in the area.

From the 13,063-foot summit of Wheeler Peak, to the sage-covered foothills, Great Basin National Park is a place to sample the stunning diversity of the larger Great Basin region. Here you can enjoy the solitude of the wilderness, walk among ancient bristlecone pines, bask in the darkest of night skies, and explore Lehman Caves. 

 Click here to learn more about Great Basin National Park

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About the Artist

Photographer and graphic artist Rob Decker studied photography with Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park during the summer of 1979. The 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 our national parks as we celebrate the next 100 years of the National Park Service.

"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 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."

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Click here to check out the entire National Park Poster Collection!

Source: https://national-park-posters.com/blogs/national-park-posters/national-parks-of-the-grand-circle