Spring can be one of those iffy seasons in the National Park System. You might run into warm, sunny days with an easy breeze at your back. Or, you could find yourself being pelted by sleet, battered by a stiff wind, with grey clouds scooting by overhead.
One thing you can count on, though, are wildflowers; glorious wildflowers and trees in colorful bloom. Columbines and trilliums, Shooting stars, Indian paintbrush, redbuds and dozens upon dozens more. All these floral species work in concert to color these landscapes as they recover from the cold, bleak days of winter. In honor of this kaleidoscopic outburst, on page 3 we launch a story on the best places in the parks to find wildflowers. As well as touching on some reliable parks for wildflower spotting, we also highlight some useful Internet tools so you can find your favorite species, whether you’re in search of wildflowers or wildlife.
One prime destination for spring is Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and beginning on page 8 of our digital guide we outline three great days in this iconic national park. Whether you head to Cades Cove, Cataloochee, or the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (which winds its way roughly 70 miles through the park) you won’t be disappointed with a springtime visit to the Smokies. While in Great Smoky, go out of your way to visit some of the majestic hemlock groves, now threatened by a tiny insect imported to the United States from Japan. With help from contributor Jane Schneider, we took the pulse of the battle against the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid in eastern units of the National Park System, and have found some good news. Our stories open on page 15.
Also in our Essential Park Guide for spring you’ll be encouraged to visit a Canadian national park this year, as the country celebrates the 150th anniversary of independence from Great Britain. You’ll also find a special paddling section to the National Park System, as well as some good books.
While the weather might be contrary at times, get moving. We don’t think you’ll be disappointed by a spring visit to a national park. We'll be rolling out the stories on the Traveler in the weeks and months ahead, but you can dive into the digital version below, order a hard copy for $14.95, or download a digital copy for $2.50.
Stories about:
Story Categories:
A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.
Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:
- Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
- Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
- Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
- North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
- Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
- Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
- Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.
Comments
Today, my two son's returned a bow and arrow to this Tribe. It is with great pride to be able to return this horrible weapon. John Tyler Mitchell was the one fighying the incient Tribe. They are now blessed and forgive the sin of a relative.