National Park Week promotion. Credit: National Park Service
"Healthy Parks, Healthy People" is the name of the event, a theme that hints at the fact that people in the US need to move away from the television or computer screen, put down the smartphone, and get back to nature. (It probably also alludes to the fact that many people are overweight or obese, and walking around a National park is a great way to get some much needed exercise.)National Park Week is all about promoting parks as a resource for building health and wellness in America. So from April 16-24, people can visit hundreds of parks for free, as well as particiapte in special events like ranger-led hikes, kayaking trips, volunteer opportunities, and much more. It's also a great way to celebrate Earth Day--April 22--and take part in park clean-ups or learn about ways to preserve the earth.
So if you live near a National park--or plan on visiting one--why not take advantage of the fact that you can get in free of charge? Not only does it allow you to see the breathtaking landscapes of our country, but it also gives you the chance to be active and adventurous.
For me, it's an opportunity to learn about the National Parks located near me, because, honestly, I do not even know if there are any.