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Sandy Solitude On Memorial Day

Memorial Day is the traditional start of the summer tourism season. In places like the Four Corners region, it may be the busiest time of the year as people try to visit the national parks before the summer heat arrives. I love the region but I dislike crowds. So, when I found time for a week off at Memorial Day last year, the challenge was clear: could I visit a Southwestern national park without the crowds? As a lover of wilderness, the challenge was even greater: could I find solitude in that park?

Three Days In The Shenandoah: Stonewall Jackson At Front Royal And Winchester

More than 150 years after its conclusion, the Civil War continues to be dissected by authors who examine and re-examine the motives and strategies of the major players on both sides of the country-wrenching conflict. In Three Days In The Shenandoah, Gary Ecelbarger clears the fog of time to bring forward a more detailed analysis of General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson's 1862 crushing foray on Union forces at Front Royal and Winchester, Virginia.

Smokies Hike Shows Off Views Of Appalachian Trail And Work Of Ridge Runners

The Appalachian Trail, which runs for more than 71 miles through Great Smoky Mountains National Park, showcases world-famous views, and helpers known as Ridge Runners keep visitors safe and informed while maintaining the popular trail. Both the views and the work of the Ridge Runners will be featured in a hike on June 13 organized by the Friends of the Smokies.

Planning Complete For Pier Replacement On Santa Cruz Island At Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands National Park officials have approved a plan to replace the existing pier on Santa Cruz Island in order to provide safe, accessible, efficient, and sustainable access for visitors at Scorpion Anchorage. The pier will provide more reliable access during low-tide conditions for concessionaire and National Park Service vessels.

Colorado National Monument To Celebrate Its 106th Birthday

When founder John Otto first arrived in the Grand Valley in 1906, he combed through the remote canyons like few had ever done before. He dedicated his life to making the canyons a national park so all Americans could enjoy them. Otto wrote a petition to create a national park and knocked on doors until he'd won the support of nearly every local businessman and leader, encouraging federal representatives of the day to introduce a bill.

Civil War History Comes Alive At Cold Harbor

During a two-week period back in the spring of 1864, Confederate and Union forces engaged in one of the largest battles of the Civil War just 10 miles outside of Richmond, Virginia at a rural crossroads known as Cold Harbor. On Saturday, June 3 and Sunday, June 4, Richmond National Battlefield Park invites the public to experience the story of that epic battle that resulted in more than 18,000 casualties and led one Confederate general to lament, “It was not war; it was murder.”