U.S. National Parks thread

Thank you! All credit goes to mother nature and the continued efforts of the NPS in both the US and Canada. There's really some humbling, beautiful things to see out there! One just has to go experience it! Pictures VERY seldom do the sceneries justice.

Sounds like a nice relaxing time. So long as the kids are not fighting. When is the trip?

Horos said:

Or this one not a NP though.

Reminds me of some of the spots in Yellowstone. Looks like an awesome place to take a natural bath or something...though we all (should) know better.

mcgruff10 said:

darwinstheory said:

Sounds like a nice relaxing time. So long as the kids are not fighting. When is the trip?

Mid August next year. By the way, glacier national park is my favorite spot in the lower 48. Looks like you had an amazing time.  

Surprisingly, I put Glacier in front of Yellowstone, which I did not expect. This only applies however, IF one is willing to bust out a backpack and some hiking boots. Obviously it was great to see so many of the sights at Glacier, but for me, it was putting in the extra effort to take the hikes  to see the sights. I am not fit like I should be and was extremely sore after completing the Highline Trail. But it was so rewarding. Not just simple little boardwalks everywhere. It felt real, pure, natural, refreshing, cleansing...etc...

Continuing north through Banff NP, we made our way into Jasper NP and up to the Columbian Icefields. Here, we were able to take a large bus (with 5 ft. tires) up to a small section of the Athabasca Glacier. I think this was the only thing on the trip we actually paid to do...and I was glad we did. I'm sure to some, it was over priced or whatever, but I REALLY for whatever reason, to walk on a glacier. About 45 minutes before we got there, we were fine in hoodies. A little chilly, but not bad. By the time we arrived at the Columbian Icefields, the sun was almost completely hidden by clouds, the temperature dropped and the wind was howling. LUCKILY, we packed winter coats, hats and gloves. Despite that, we were still freezing! After our time at the Athabasca Glacier, we made a brief stop at the nearby skywalk (similar to that of the Grand Canyon).

Then we began our trip back through Jasper and Banff NP's. We made a quick stop at Peyto Lake. Check out that blue color! And the shape of the lake! That was awesome to see. After this, we continued our way to Calgary and spent the night there. The next morning began our journey back home. Even though it was only Canada, I was admittedly a bit nervous approaching the border. Never thought it would be quicker and easier getting into the States than into Canada! 

Once back into the US, we wound our way back through Glacier NP one last time. It was a nive peaceful drive that really gave us an opportunity to reflect on our journey. We ended up back in Kalispell that night and to the airport the following morning. That was it. The fun was over...mostly. I have tried to document and photograph things in such a way that it is easy for us to remember/relive the experiences, so we have that going for us. 

Now...where to next year!?!?!?!? I'm thinking I'll get a week off in either June or late May. Then, depending on PJ shows, maybe another week in late August/September. I have got to see and hike some more of these parks!

^^^Awesome! Freaking awesome sauce! You have any great pictures to share? I have really enjoyed the participation of others in this thread. It has been great to read.