Our Heritage: The National Parks
By Mr Hallewell
Information about the United States National Park System including its founding and purpose. Also some suggested national parks for visiting.
Are you looking for a cheap place to vacation this Summer? Perhaps you
don't want to travel too far from your home? Of course you are looking
for a memorable experience, something you will really enjoy. If this is
the case then look no further then one of the protected areas under the
jurisdiction of the United States National Park System.
In the United States, the National Park Service controls and provides
for the National Park System. This agency was created by President
Woodrow Wilson in 1916 when he decided that it was necessary for the
government to take some responsibility in protecting our beautiful
national forests, deserts, mountains, lakes and canyons. The purpose of
this protection was to ensure that these areas would be available to
visit for United State citizens far into the future.
The very first national park recognized was Yellowstone National Park
located in northwest Wyoming and the first national monument, also
located in Wyoming, was Devil's Tower. Although the system started out
small, that is not the case any longer.
This small government agency has now grown to the point where it
oversees over 390 separate protected areas and employs almost 22,000
federal workers. As a part of the 390 protected areas are almost 60
National Parks, ranging in size from 13,200,000 acres in Alaska, to
national historic places that are smaller than .02 acres.This small government agency has now grown to the point where it
oversees over 390 separate protected areas and employs almost 22,000
federal workers. As a part of the 390 protected areas are almost 60
National Parks, ranging in size from 13,200,000 acres in Alaska, to
national historic places that are smaller than .02 acres.
There are national parks in over 50% of the states in the United States
so chances are that no matter what part of the country that you live
in, there is a national park somewhere nearby.
For residents of California there is Yosemite, Sequoia and Redwood. If
you live in the desert southwest then you are probably not too far from
the Grand Canyon or Mesa Verde. Residents of Utah can spend time
exploring Arches or Zion. Residents of North Carolina and the
surrounding area can take time to visit beautiful Shenandoah and last,
but certainly not least, is Yellowstone, where you can be one of close
to 4 million annual visitors.
Entrance fees to National Parks are very affordable. Most parks charge
from $3-$20 to enter. If you plan on seeing more than one park on your
trip you may want to consider purchasing a national park pass for $80.
No matter how many parks you see, the National Park System is surely
something that you will never forget. There is something for everyone
at most of these parks. If you are a big adventure buff then perhaps
you will enjoy hiking in the backcountry (permits required) and camping
for days. If you just want the experience and the memory then try
making it a day trip. Most national parks have hotels near or within
their boundaries so there truly is something for everyone.
Mesa Verde National Park is a great place to visit if you are looking for a vacation lasting only a day or two. There are many Mesa Verde Hotels
that you can stay in for affordable rates. Visit our website to compare
prices of local hotels in Cortez, Colorado and the Four Corners area.
Links:
Submitted by Mr Hallewell 2009-08-13 09:23:41
Category: Travel
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