Enjoy #ParkPalettes from parks far and wide, like the National Park of American Samoa! In the heart of the South Pacific, this park has a world of sights, sounds, and experiences you will find in no other.
Looking for a warmer palette? In this below-sea-level basin, steady drought and record summer heat make Death Valley National Park a land of extremes. Yet, each extreme has a striking contrast. Towering peaks are frosted with winter snow. #ParkPalettes
Grand Teton National Park is a stunning park. Tall & proud, the Tetons rise dramatically from the grasslands, cutting through the bluest skies and brightest sunrises. Snowcapped in winter & gray in summer, these granite masterpieces are home to all seeking serenity. #ParkPalettes
At Chaco Culture National Historical Park in New Mexico, the massive buildings of the Ancestral Puebloan people still testify to the organizational and engineering abilities not seen anywhere else in the American Southwest. #ParkPalettes
"The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World" was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the United States and is recognized as a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. It was designated as a National Monument in 1924. #ParkPalettes
Discover a landscape of contrasting colors, landforms, and textures unlike any other at Utah's Arches National Park. The park has over 2,000 natural stone arches, hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive rock fins, and giant balanced rocks. #ParkPalettes
Theodore Roosevelt National Park in the North Dakota badlands is a great place for hiking, camping, and sightseeing. Today, the park offers visitors the opportunity to connect with the land’s rich cultural history that captured the imagination of Theodore Roosevelt. #ParkPalettes
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It’s not the heat that gets you; it’s the dinosaurs. 🦖
Summer inspires us all (let’s be honest, not all of us), to go outside. If you do head out, remember that high temperatures and the risk of heat illness can happen at any national park whether it’s located in an urban environment, a historical site, or the mountains.
Remember to protect your skin. Wear sunscreen and have a hat and sunglasses to help combat the high temperatures and prevent damage from UV light.
One does not simply become a master of karate. First, you must accidentally walk into a spider web.
Web on, web off.
Off please.
We’ve all walked through a web. Here are a few tips to get through it: Well, you already went through it, but...
Try to stay in the center of the trail. Webs are more likely to be found near bushes, trees, and other vegetation. Staying in the middle can help reduce the risk of walking into one.
“Catcus” alert! Sitting on a throne of spines, this bobcat was observed at @OrganPipeNPS in southern Arizona. 🐱🌵
The height of the cactus provides a good lookout station. But what about the spines? Bobcats are very adept climbers. They also have very thick foot pads that protect them from the sharp spines of the cactus.
When you get your DNA results and find out you’re 3% frog.
🐸🐻
Bears sit in the woods. We said it.
Why do they just sit? Bears have a very high ratio of brain size to body size. Some believe that bears can interpret some sense of natural beauty. Scientists have observed bears sitting at vista points for hours staring at a river or mountain views.
We like selfies. We also like it when your trip to a national park is fun, safe, and that you don’t chip or crumble. But when capturing the perfect photo or selfie, be a smart cookie.
Wildlife may appear calm and docile but can be unpredictable and easily startled.
Really? You wore the hat with the giant pom pom and bells?
Remember to use a zoom on your camera. If you are close enough to take a selfie, you may lose more than your gumdrop buttons.
We get it---national parks have some photogenic scenery, but do not put your life at risk for a picture. Stick to trails and boardwalks. Use caution, watch your step, and keep your eyes on the trail and not on your camera while walking.
Don’t we all? Remember, your safety is your responsibility while hiking in national parks. Planning is an important step in being prepared for any adventure.
Although it’s generally safer to hike with a companion, if you prefer to go solo, take a few extra measures, like leaving a trip plan with a trusted friend or family member.