08.22
Winter sunrise on Thor’s Hammer, Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Saturday, August 25th is the 96th birthday of the National Park Service. Established in 1916 by President Woodrow Wilson, the National Park Service was created to “conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wild life therein…for the enjoyment of future generations.”
From its humble beginnings with just thirty-five parks administered under the Department of the Interior, today the National Park System includes over 400 units including parks, monuments, and historic sites. Ken Burns’ recent film The National Parks: America’s Best Idea rekindled the connection many feel with the parks, and is a wonderful tribute to the history and originality that first made them possible.
The National Park Foundation is the official charity of America’s national parks and a great resource for staying in the loop about events and activities at your nearby parks or putting the finishing touches on planning your next big adventure.
This is gorgeous. I visited Bryce years ago and I have been thinking about making the trip again. Is there a particular time of year that you prefer to go there?
Thanks Tim. Bryce is beautiful just about any time of year, but I would avoid the summer due to crowds and heat.
Winter is especially beautiful with a dusting of snow, but does require appropriate clothing and precautions with gear such as batteries.