Category: Midwest

The National Park system was established in 1916 by the federal government to protect our nation’s remarkable natural beauty. State parks were formed with the same concept, but on a smaller scale and run by the state in which they reside. All these parks are America’s playgrounds. While national parks have the blockbuster fame, state parks are the cool indie bands of the outdoor world.  Most of us have or will visit one of these parks in our lifetime. We are fortunate they’re at our disposal to enjoy a break from modern infrastructure.  With over sixty national parks and 9,000 state parks, you’re sure to find one you’ll love.  National Parks Hiking is usually at the top of visitors’ lists. Reaching a breathtaking viewpoint, taking it all in, and heading back down is a fulfilling days work. Always pack water, snacks, and a good excuse to stop every 20 minutes. The popular Yosemite, Grand Canyon and Yellowstone National Parks are well known for their trails, but many other national parks offer beautiful hikes ranging from easy strolls to challenging backcountry treks. Massachusetts’ Cape Cod National Seashore park has the Beech Forest one mile loop along a pond of the same name. Tours are provided including Provincetown's lighthouses, Wood's End and The Race Point Light House. More information here: Beech Forest Loop Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Park has a unique 1.7 mile Billy Goat Trail over rocks and along a cliff above Mather Gorge. If forest bathing is on your list, Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway in Wisconsin boasts the 2.8 mile Trego Nature Trail running parallel to the upper Mississippi River through a variety of woodland. There are hundreds more hikes. Best place to find the one for you is on their website here.  For a more sedentary