Planning a year of exploration across America’s Western landscapes begins long before you hit the road. Now that 2026 is here, it’s the perfect time to map your journey through national parks —each one offering its own seasonal stories and unique landscapes.
These five easy winter adventures don’t require technical skills or major gear upgrades—just curiosity, a light jacket, and the willingness to enjoy the parks in a quieter time.
Celebrate Native American Heritage Month this November and explore the enduring and complex cultural legacy of Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site.
From national park adventures in the heart of Texas to stories of those who champion and protect these special places, there’s something for everyone in this edition of American West Monthly.
When you step into San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, you step into a living story. Here, along the San Antonio River, four historic missions—Concepción, San José, San Juan, and Espada—tell of communities that came together nearly 300 years ago. These missions aren’t just preserved sites; they’re vibrant spaces where history, culture, and faith continue to thrive.
