Darren's US & Canadian Parks Blog

Commemorating Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, who led the first European expedition in 1542 to explore what is now the west coast of the United States, Cabrillo National Monument combines history with a variety of visitor activities, including tidepooling, whale watching, scenic walks, and ranger-led programs. The park includes the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, one of the first lighthouses on the West Coast. Plan your visit here.

On May 10, 1869, the Central Pacific Railroad met the Union Pacific Railroad at Promontory Summit, Utah, officially connecting the nation by rail. The driving of the golden spike marked the completion of what was undoubtedly one of the most important events in United States history. By bridging the 2,000 miles from the Missouri River to the West Coast, the nation was now joined by 3,500 miles of transcontinental railroad from New York to California. A journey that had once taken four to six months by the overland pioneers had been reduced to six days, and the dangers and hardships facing westward travelers had been diminished greatly. The Golden Spike National Historic Site, located 32 miles west of Brigham City, UT, offers programs, films, museum exhibits, an auto tour, and summer steam locomotive demonstrations.

The “Land of Enchantment” celebrates the 75th anniversary of its State Parks system this year with a series of programs and events, including outdoor education programs for kids, geocaching contests, camping giveaways and more.

Fought from July 1-3, 1863, the Battle of Gettysburg was one of the most crucial battles of the Civil War and its bloodiest battle. Of the more than 165,000 soldiers who fought with the Union and Confederacy, more than 51,000 were killed, wounded, or captured. Earlier this month the Gettysburg National Military Park unveiled a new $103 million Museum and Visitor Center. A visit to Gettysburg is a truly memorable experience and one that I’m sure you will appreciate. I’ve added a photo gallery here as well.

On April 25, 1846 Mexican and American troops fought on the prairie of Palo Alto, a battle which led to the first major engagements between the two republics in the US-Mexican War (1846-1848). The Palo Alto National Historic Site, located near Browsville, Texas, preserves the large battlefield on which the first major battle took place. Visitors can view exhibits on the battle of Palo Alto and the US-Mexican War and walk along the self-guided trail.

As people around the world come together to celebrate the 38th anniversary of Earth Day on or around April 22nd, learn about the history of the event and find out how you can participate.

The treasures of south Louisiana come alive at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. Here the park’s six sites feature everything from history to culture to outdoor adventure. Enjoy this descriptive photo gallery to learn about wide range of visitor activities, including boat rides, talks and tours, cooking and craft demonstrations, and more.

Today marks the 40th anniversary of the dedication of Padre Island National Seashore. Located southeast of the city of Corpus Christi, TX, Padre Island is the longest remaining undeveloped stretch of barrier island in the world. Park visitors can enjoy camping, swimming, fishing, bicycling, beachcombing, and other activities. Plan your visit here.

On April 4th, 1968, Martin Luther King, Jr. was shot on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis. He was 39. The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site in Atlanta presents From Memphis To Atlanta: The Drum Major Returns Home, an original exhibition running April 4-August 31, 2008 in remembrance of Dr. King’s assassination forty years ago. Learn more about Dr. King and the historic site established to commemorate his achievements and his legacy.

On this day in 1973, the last American troops left South Vietnam, ending US direct military involvement in Vietnam. Nineteen year later the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was dedicated at the west end of Constitution Gardens in Washington, DC. The polished black granite wall is inscribed with the names of more than 58,000 persons who gave their lives or remain missing in the Vietnam War (1964-1973). Plan your visit here.