Essays

Get started on your national park journey by perusing our extensive archive of essays. Whether you want to be a park ranger, learn more about rangers and parks, or cultivate a wilder life, we have an essay that will help.

Parks

a road with a view of the granite peaks of yosemite valley

In the last year, America’s public lands have been under attack from the Trump Administration, but now finally some good news.

a tree with a lightning scar down one side

Both American democracy and America's national parks have received catastrophic wounds this past year. Can they heal?

a large canyon of red rock with at silver river at the base

America’s public lands have the popularity President Trump wishes he had. Here are five ways they are more popular than him and his policies.

wildflowers in a field with a mountain in the background

National park rangers keep the records of our heritage. To lose their knowledge is to forget who we are and where we have been.

a wrought iron sign over a paved street

When we don’t understand history, we are destined to repeat it. This is a reality we are seeing play out right in front of our eyes.

sculpted red rocks under a starry night sky

The Trump Administration wants to steal public lands. They mistreat federal workers who protect those lands with one goal: to make them quit.

Wild Living

Beautiful woman wearing a flower crown

Trans Americans are Americans. Their stories should be included in NPS history, and, until recently, they were.

hiker carrying a backpack outside

What's in my bag? As a former national park ranger, here’s what I take for a day hike, including a few items that might surprise you.

two hands forming a heart shape in the forest

How can you be a respectful national park visitor while parks are experiencing staffing shortages or other crises? Here are seven tips.

a river bordered by massive canyon walls

To build a wall in parks--that was the threat the first time Donald Trump was president. Now he is threatening the parks themselves.

a carved, colorful statue of wood

There are countless Native American cultural sites for visitors to explore in the Pacific Northwest. Here are some of the best.

Discover national parks that celebrate American Latino heritage, a community whose stories and culture are woven into the fabric of America.