Park stories

Hike these Awesome Trails at Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Tucked away in western Colorado lies a true natural wonder—Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. With its sheer cliffs, narrow gorges, and plunging canyons, this park offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the American West. Whether you...

Honor the Indigenous Heritage of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area rests within the ancestral homeland of the Wintu people, who have lived in this region of northern California for thousands of years. With towering Shasta Bally mountain, clear streams, and abundant natural...

Enjoy These Spectacular Activities at Channel Islands National Park

Off the coast of southern California near the city of Ventura lies Channel Islands National Park, a hidden gem offering a peaceful escape from the noise of urban life. Consisting of five islands—Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa...

Make These Seven Actually Stunning Stops on the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail

From the Sonoran Desert to the Pacific Ocean, journey through history on the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. This route retraces the path of Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza, who in 1775-76 led an expedition to establish a...

Western National Parks Association Announces Winner of the 2023 Edward B. Danson Award, Michael Soukup

TUCSON, Ariz., March 12, 2024—On February 15, 2024, Western National Parks Association (WNPA) announced the winner of the Edward B. Danson Award, Dr. Michael Soukup, for his influential work in national parks. The Edward B. Danson Award celebrates...

Western National Parks Association Honors Robert J. Steidl with the 2023 Emil W. Haury Lifetime Achievement Award

TUCSON, Ariz., March 12, 2024—On February 15, 2024, Western National Parks Association announced the winner of the renowned Emil W. Haury Lifetime Achievement Award, Robert J. Steidl, PhD, for his lifetime of dedication and innovation in the field of...

Western National Parks Association Announces Recipients of 2024 Research Grants

TUCSON, Ariz., March 12, 2024—Western National Parks Association (WNPA) has funded six research projects in national parks for 2024, supporting the researchers’ invaluable contributions to advancing the understanding of the diverse ecosystems and...

American West Monthly: Chiricahua National Monument

A Park with Many Stories to Tell Chiricahua National Monument encompasses more than 12 thousand square feet of land in what is now southeast Arizona. It has been a source of food and water for Indigenous peoples dating back more than 12 thousand...

Go Out and Visit These Unique Southeast Arizona National Parks

Tucked away in the rugged mountains and sweeping deserts of southeast Arizona are three national park sites that offer a rare glimpse of history, culture, and natural beauty for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Make these lesser...

Visit Three Remarkable National Parks on the Navajo Nation

From ancient cliff dwellings to present day hogans, the desert Arizona canyons on the Navajo Nation in northern Arizona foster a special connection to Indigenous culture and history. Three national parks—Navajo National Monument, Hubbell Trading Post...