National Parks are a Treasure

April 1, 2013

The first of April and it is still cold in Cherokee, even the residents are awaiting better weather.  Could this be an April Fools joke?

Spring in GSMNP

Regardless we headed to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park (GSMNP) for a hike.  After all, this was our day off and one must take advantage of those things.  I am always amazed at our park system and the foresight of others to preserve lands for future citizens.  

As I needed a bit of education on the park system it was a good time to research.  Here is what I found...

The first park, Yellowstone in 1872, preceded the National Park Service, 1916, by a few years.  But who is counting?  There are currently more than 59 National Parks which does not include National Forests, National Monuments, and Recreation Areas. The important fact is we have National Parks to visit, explore, appreciate, treasure, and preserve for the next generation.  

1836 Baptist Church rebuilt in 1912

Now I think mainly of the great outdoors but there are parks dedicated to history, preservation of culture, and commemorating those who sacrificed to make the USA what it is today.  Yes, this is called history and almost every park contains a historical component.

Notice the 'Points' for this old church

When you wonder if the parks are necessary then recall we must understand our history if we are to avoid repeating past mistakes.  Yes, the National Parks are essential to the well being of our nation.

River near the Farm Museum in GSMNP