National Park
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Shete Boka National Park- Boka Tabla, Curacao
Off the coast of Venezuela sits the lovely desert island of Curacao. First colonized by the Dutch in 1634, the island’s sheltered natural deep water harbor proved ideal for trade. As the colony flourished, grand colonial buildings were erected around the capital of Willemstad; though distinctly Dutch, local design elements were added, resulting in an architectural style known as Curacao Baroque. Many of these pastel painted buildings remain, and in 1997 the area became an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a beautiful city, that should be explored; but for those who are interested in the more distant past, head over to the island’s north shore. The island itself dates…
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Arches National Park- Moab, UT
Most National Parks are ridiculously crowded in the summer. Hikes seem more like death marches, as the volume of visitors surpasses most trail capacities. However, desert parks are decidedly quiet this time of year. Yes, they are hot. Yes, they are unforgiving. But for those willing to set out at dawn, you will be rewarded with an intimate experience, almost impossible at more hospitable times of the year. Arches National Park is a perfect example; late August finds this wonderland almost abandoned. Just remember sunscreen, long sleeves, and plenty of water, or you’ll never live to post your pictures.
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Channel Islands National Park- CA
Are you tired of fighting the crowds at National Parks? Of course you are. Our National Parks are insanely beautiful, and very photogenic, so it is understandable that so many are overcrowded during peak season. 2015 saw 307.2 million park visitors systemwide; that number is sure to be surpassed in 2016. But all is not lost. Among the Yellowstones and Yosemites live lesser known gems, that you will practically have to yourself. A perfect example is Channel Islands National Park- a naturalist’s paradise located off the coast of Santa Barbara, California.
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Blue Ridge Parkway- VA & NC
Every region has its season, and the East owns fall. It is far too humid in the summer, and for the most part far too cold in the winter. Spring is alright, but all that rain makes it unpredictable. But in early fall, a time of apples, crisp weather and changing leaves, the East shines. And while there are many places up and down the coast you can peep the leaves, for those who love the open road, nothing compares to the Blue Ridge Parkway and its sweeping mountain vistas.
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Zion National Park- Springdale, UT
I recently read that Zion National Park may have to start limiting admission due to surging crowd numbers. I believe it. It is obscenely beautiful, and one of the most peaceful places on earth. It is impossible to return home without beautiful pictures, unless you just didn’t take any. Should everyone visit this park? Absolutely. But everyone does not need to do so during the three months of summer. Fall is an absolutely fabulous time to visit; hiking temperatures are perfect, and you will have many trails to yourself. At least more than you would have had during the summer in any event.
