After graduating high school, my circumstances allowed me to travel cross-country from New Jersey to the West Coast several times. I would spend several months out West with my camping gear in the car, a map next to me, and go from national park to national park. I remember my first three days in Yosemite it rained cats and dogs. We were backpacking and were soaked. Finally on the third day the sun came out as we exited our tent at Half Dome. Our wet clothes were forgotten in the grandeur of our surroundings. My experiences in those parks and the impact they had on me have lasted a lifetime. The amazing natural beauty and splendor left me in awe. Protecting the parks from pollution, infringement, and overuse are absolutely critical to protecting these natural treasures for future generations who may also find themselves in a car, with the GPS on, and the next National Park to visit on the horizon.
Sincerely,
Yosemite National Park
With its sculpted granite rock formations, towering ancient sequoia trees and spectacular waterfalls, it's no wonder Yosemite is one of the most celebrated national parks in the world.
State(s): California
Established: 1890
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