Celebrate the start of National Parks Week with a free park visit
Today, all National Parks are free to visit, to celebrate the start of National Parks Week in the United States which runs April 17 – April 25.
Each year in April, the National Park Service partners with the National Park Foundation to host events and activities to celebrate the more than 400 national parks in the United States.
Throughout the week, each day has a special dedication. Today is Park Rx day, dedicated to the mental and physical health benefits of spending time outside.
April 18th is Volunteers in Parks Day, recognizing the volunteers who work year-round to keep national parks
beautiful and operational.
■ April 19th is Military Monday. Parks across the country preserve military history and provide a place of recreation and reflection for active-duty military, veterans, and families.
■ April 20th is Transformation Tuesday.
In the more than 100 years the National Park Service has been protecting land, much has changed. This day is set aside to explore the transformations that have occurred over this time.
■ April 21 is Wayback Wednesday, recognizing the historic sites, culture, and artifacts preserved in national parks.
■ April 22nd is Earth Day. It is a chance to appreciate our natural world and make efforts to preserve and improve it.
■ April 23 is Friendship Day. The National Park Service has many communities, volunteers, and organizations who they rely upon to accomplish goals. This is a day of appreciation for their efforts.
■ April 24 is Junior Ranger Day. The Junior Ranger programs of the National Park Service help youth get involved in the outdoors. Children who are unable to participate in programs, physically at a park can earn their Junior Ranger Badge at home. Information on how to earn the badge can be found at www. nps.gov
■ April 25th is B.A.R.K. Ranger Day. Recognizing the important role dogs have in many people’s lives, park visitors are encouraged to bring along their four-legged friends (to parks that are pet-friendly)
Even if you are not able to visit a national park this week, it is a great chance to spend time outdoors enjoying the abundance of nature around us and the spring weather.