What Americas Longest Highway Taught Me About National Parks National Park Diaries 2024-06-18 | I've just returned from a whirlwind road trip along America's longest highway - Historic Route 20. I was invited to do this trip by my friend Bryan, over at the Historic Route 20 Association (@HistoricUSRoute20 ) because of the shear number of National Park sites on or near the highway. I was struck, not only by the number of parks, but also the stories they all told. The lands these parks protect encompass all eras of American history, the good and the bad, and visiting them all within a few days like that really opened my eyes to the power of preserving not just parks, but corridors and entire areas. I've compiled my thoughts and reflections on the road trip, and these parks, in this video for you. Enjoy!Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesImages and Music:Storyblocks
Every National Park in Colorado, Explained National Park Diaries 2025-09-01 | Colorado! America's mountain playground. From the beloved and mega-popular Rocky Mountain National Park, with it's Bear Lake Road Corridor, Trail Ridge Road, and plethora of hiking opportunities, to Great Sand Dunes National Park, with its popular sandboarding activity. From the Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings to the vertiginous chasms of Black Canyon of the Gunnison. From Dinosaur National Monument to Colorado National Monument, the Centennial State is definitely not lacking in exploration opportunities, covering everything from the most rugged mountain adventure, to the ancient history of the Four Corners Region, to the darker days of our own more recent past. Let's dive in... to the National Parks of Colorado.Videos mentioned in this video:"The National Park That Never Sees the Sun:" youtu.be/1Ld2l1jWAzE"The REAL Reason Glen Canyon Dam Was Built:" youtu.be/XSaa_KxVYSs?si=fZMqo01ebA5OKpRI"Why Colorado's Great Sand Dunes Are So Tall:" youtu.be/c-B2zuK7Bh4?si=yKeINctcXGyE37GpSupport me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources:nps.gov/state/co/index.htmImages and Music: StoryblocksNPS
Every National Park in Massachusetts, Explained National Park Diaries 2025-08-25 | Massachusetts isn't home to a single one of the "Big 63" National Parks, but don't let that fool you. The Bay State is home to some of the most historically significant places in America, from the Battles of Lexington and Concord to the Industrial Revolution. You'll find the homes and birthplaces of hugely influential Americans, from John F Kennedy to John Adams, from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow to Frederick Law Olmsted. And oh yeah, Cape Cod. Massachusetts' NPS Sites hit heavy on the history - and for good reason. Join me, as we dive into the National Park Sites of Massachusetts!Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources:nps.gov/state/ma/index.htmImages and Music:StoryblocksNPS
Haleakala National Parks Forbidden Forest National Park Diaries 2025-08-18 | In the remote reaches of Haleakala National Park's Kipahulu District lies a forbidden forest. Little was known of this biological wonderland until 1967, when researchers discovered unparalleled levels of biodiversity and endemic species, species found nowhere else on Earth. In order to protect the rarities of this remote valley, the decision was made to close it. Permanently. Forever. To forgo one of the main tenets of National Park management: access. To this day, only authorized research personnel and land managers are allowed access to this Valley in order to protect its most vulnerable residents, and ensure that they retain a refuge in a world increasingly dominated by human impacts. This is the story of the Kipahulu Valley.Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources:martingriffin.org/about/mauis-kipahulu-rain-forestmauinews.com/news/local-news/2017/04/into-the-wild-kipahulu-valley-rainforestnps.gov/hale/learn/nature/forest-kipahulu.htmnps.gov/hale/learn/historyculture/the-kipahulu-valley-expedition.htmnpshistory.com/publications/hale/index.htm
Every National Park in Indiana, Explained National Park Diaries 2025-08-11 | You might not think of Indiana has much going on when it comes to National Parks. Although it is home to one of the "Big 63" in Indiana Dunes National Park, and is one of several states with a park site dedicated to Abraham Lincoln, Indiana is often overshadowed in the National Parks department, with seemingly little to offer. However, I'm here to convince you otherwise. I'm here to showcase the Hoosier States 3 NPS Sites for you and, hopefully, pique your interest with the natural and historical offerings it has on display.Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources:http://nps.gov/state/in/index.htmImages and Music:StoryblocksNPSGeorge Desort
Every National Park in South Carolina, Explained National Park Diaries 2025-08-04 | Congaree National Park, with it's famous Synchronous Fireflies and it's infamous mosquito meter headline the flagship of South Carolina's National Park Sites. But South Carolina also abounds with plenty of revolutionary war battlefields, civil war battlefields, and an abundance of colonial history. In this video, we're exploring every National Park Site in South Carolina. Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources:nps.gov/state/sc/index.htmImages and Music:StoryblocksNPS
Every National Park in Utah, Explained National Park Diaries 2025-07-28 | The Mighty Five. Angels Landing. The Narrows. Delicate Arch. Double Arch. Bryce Canyon. The Waterpocket Fold. Fruita Pies. Island in the Sky. Utah is home to some stunning scenery and is considered one of the premier National Park states in the country. You're probably very familiar with many of the sites/experiences I just mentioned, but Utah also has 8 other NPS Sites that are well worth your time to learn about. In this video, we're exploring the National Park Sites... of Utah.Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources:nps.gov/state/ut/index.htmImages and Music:StoryblocksNPS
Every National Park in Alaska, Explained National Park Diaries 2025-07-21 | From the towering slopes of Denali National Park to the burly bruins of Fat Bear Week in Katmai National Park to the Alaska Cruises of Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska truly is America's premiere wilderness state. It is home to some of the largest, and least visited, protected places in the US. In this video, we're talking about Alaska's 16 National Park Units and giving you a glimpse into what the Last Frontier is all about.Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources:nps.gov/state/ak/index.htmImages and Musics:StoryblocksNPSNPCA
Why Selling Public Lands Wont Solve the Housing Crisis National Park Diaries 2025-07-14 | Attempts to sell public lands for housing, such as the effort we saw from Mike Lee in the Big Beautiful Bill, have become mainstream. In addition to Lee's efforts, we have also seen proposals from DOI/HUD, and both major party Presidential candidates have proposed it as well. Clearly, selling public lands for housing has become politically relevant. But, I'm here to tell you that these attempts make no sense. There is basically no scenario where large scale public lands selloffs, such as those we have seen proposed, will make any appreciable difference in solving this country's (very real) housing crisis. In short, we need to be building homes, but not on public lands.Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources:DOI/HUD Joint Press Releasedoi.gov/pressreleases/icymi-secretary-burgum-hud-secretary-turner-announce-joint-task-force-reduce-housing National Low Income Housing Coalition - HUD Affordable Housing Cutsnlihc.org/resource/trump-administration-expected-release-fy26-budget-proposal-slashing-hud-funding-skinny Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act Sell Off Figuresblm.gov/sites/default/files/docs/2024-07/Quick Facts 7-1-2024.pdfCenter for Geospatial Studies Data Toolexperience.arcgis.com/experience/305f2764a5d8419faaf457009273eec5 Colorado College State of the Rockies Pollhttps://www.coloradocollege.edu/other/stateoftherockies/conservationinthewest/2025-poll-data/CC Poll 2025 - National Press Release.pdfCenter for Western Priorities Coverage:westernpriorities.org/issue/housing-and-public-lands medium.com/westwise/the-devil-is-in-the-details-when-it-comes-to-building-affordable-housing-on-public-lands-07e25a597652 medium.com/westwise/senator-mike-lees-mcmansion-subsidy-act-will-not-fix-affordable-housing-70b7e505b1b9 medium.com/westwise/the-west-has-an-affordable-housing-crisis-can-public-land-help-9b5411f73ce9 Other Coverage:‘Exclusive: Rosen introduces Washoe county lands bill years in the making”thenevadaindependent.com/article/exclusive-rosen-introduces-washoe-county-lands-bill-years-in-the-making ‘Feds agree to streamline public land sale process for affordable housing around Las Vegas’thenevadaindependent.com/article/feds-agree-to-streamline-public-land-sale-process-for-affordable-housing-around-las-vegas ‘Financing, zoning, not federal land access, are what will expand affordable housing, experts say’nevadacurrent.com/2024/05/29/financing-zoning-not-federal-land-access-are-what-will-expand-affordable-housing-experts-sayHigh Country News:hcn.org/articles/public-lands-for-housing-in-nevada-and-utah-called-giveawayhcn.org/articles/could-building-on-public-land-address-the-housing-crisis “Arizona Limits Construction Around Phoenix as its Water Supply Dwindles”nytimes.com/2023/06/01/climate/arizona-phoenix-permits-housing-water.html Boston Globe:bostonglobe.com/2025/05/09/opinion/trump-public-land-housing ProPublica:propublica.org/article/utah-mike-lee-public-lands-sell-off E&E News:eenews.net/articles/build-housing-on-federal-land-both-harris-and-trump-are-in-favor Idaho Public Land Selloffsidahoconservation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/TWS-Report_IDAHOLandSales_5-16.pdf Reports:Center for American Progress:americanprogress.org/article/will-the-u-s-housing-crisis-be-exploited-for-a-massive-public-lands-sell-off Headwaters Economics:headwaterseconomics.org/public-lands/wildfire-public-land-housing/?_ga=2.174986402.1252562697.1747687230-244547947.1747687230 891khol.org/public-lands-not-the-solution-to-the-wests-housing-crisis-economists-sayheadwaterseconomics.org/natural-hazards/wildfire-insurance-local-state-budgets Center for Geospatial Solutions:cgsearth.org/cgs-who-owns-america-government-land-report YouTube Videos:youtube.com/watch?v=4gAqY7yzk10 youtube.com/watch?v=0Flsg_mzG-M youtube.com/watch?v=dU2x0BmFhJIImages and Music:Storyblocks
Every National Park in Maine, Explained National Park Diaries 2025-07-07 | Maine is home to 5 National Park Sites. Acadia National Park, with its Cadillac Mountain sunrise and Jordan Pond House, is of course, the standout and most well known. But Maine is also the beginning/end of the Appalachian Trail at Mt Katahdin, and home to 2 of the newest units of the National Park System, as well as a truly one-of-a-kind NPS site. Join me as we explore the 5 NPS Sites of Maine!
Every National Park in Hawaii, Explained National Park Diaries 2025-06-30 | Hawaii is home to 8 units of the National Park System. Some, like Haleakala National Park (where you can see the famous Haleakala Sunrise), Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (home of the famous Kilauea Volcano), and Pearl Harbor. But hidden within these islands' tropical paradise lies several park units related to Hawaii's unique cultural and historical past. Hawaii's NPS Sites do an excellent job of showcasing the full natural and cultural wonder that are these islands.Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources:nps.gov/state/hi/index.htmImages and Music:StoryblocksNPS
Your Favorite Campsite is Now For Sale National Park Diaries 2025-06-23 | Mike Lee's amendment to the "Big Beautiful Bill" could lead to the largest sell off of federal public land in American history. If this version of the Senate Reconciliation Bill is passed, 3 million acres of public land in America are mandated to be sold, which is bad enough by itself, but the bill's deliberately vague language includes the possibility of a further 250 million acres being sold off to the highest bidder. 11 Western states are included: Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Wyoming, Nevada, California, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. We have to do everything in our power to stop this blatant theft of the American people's land. Here are some Action Items to Sign: Contact your Senators: senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm5calls.org/issue/public-land-sales-budget-reconcilliationTake Action Here:act.npca.org/page/84652/action/1?ea.tracking.id=actioncenter0617&_ga=2.212096658.78119551.1750615657-458337109.1735747173action.outdooralliance.org/a/reconciliation-public-lands-3act.wilderness.org/a/senaterec-june25-web?_ga=2.234046489.680122600.1750531970-1421478076.1748897122suwa.quorum.us/campaign/126972 Sell-Off Map:wilderness.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/basic/index.html?appid=821970f0212d46d7aa854718aac42310Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@nationalparkdiariesSources and Resources:Bill Text: energy.senate.gov/services/files/DF7B7FBE-9866-4B69-8ACA-C661A4F18096wilderness.org/articles/media-resources/250-million-acres-public-lands-eligible-sale-senr-bill Images and Music:Storyblocks
The Plan to Steal 80% of National Parks National Park Diaries 2025-06-16 | Donald Trump's proposed FY 2026 budget for the National Park Service is nothing less than catastrophic. Among other measures, the budget proposes firing 5,500 more Park Rangers, reducing the agency's budget by $1 billion, and selling off 350 of the Park System's 433 Units. Defenders of Wildlife has called it an "extinction budget," and NPCA has said the National Parks will be "completely decimated." In this video, I'm breaking down the Trump Budget and its impact on the National Park System.Use your voice: act.npca.org/page/82683/action/1?_ga=2.40640546.1803098140.1749496451-458337109.1735747173Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@UC0Z-E_L3z_JLVNuFoS8fefA Sources and Resources:nationalparkstraveler.org/2025/06/trump-budget-request-would-cut-national-park-service-workforce-more-5500 npca.org/articles/8495-president-trump-s-proposed-budget-could-decimate-at-least-350-national-park npca.org/articles/8429-president-trump-s-proposed-budget-takes-axe-to-national-park-service Trump Budget Request: whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/appendix_fy2026.pdf whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Fiscal-Year-2026-Discretionary-Budget-Request.pdf bloomberg.com/news/features/2025-06-02/trump-plans-to-offload-national-park-sites-but-states-don-t-want-themImages and Music:StoryblocksNPS
Every National Park in Virginia, Explained National Park Diaries 2025-06-09 | Virginia is home to some very famous National Park Sites: Shenandoah National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Appalachian Trail. It's also home to numerous Civil War Battlefields, such as Petersburg, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania, and Manassas/Bull Run. Still other sites protect the homes and birthplaces of some of our most important leaders: George Washington's Birthplace, Booker T Washington's Birthplace, and Maggie L Walker's home. Overall, Virginia's 22 NPS Sites are soaked in history and tell stories from some of the most important events in American history. What was once a short-form series is now something I'm bringing long form. Enjoy!Videos Mentioned in this video:Every Type of US National Park, Explained: youtu.be/X3nxFnUCIO0Why Camp David is Located in a National Park: youtu.be/EkgtDwBf6Q8The Myth of the Shenandoah Wilderness: youtu.be/h8_7QBb8HDkWolf Trap: The Most Unique National Park You've Never Heard Of: youtu.be/9YdC2w_QINQSupport me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources:nps.gov/state/va/index.htmImages and Music:StoryblocksNPS
How the Big Beautiful Bill Will Impact National Parks and Public Lands National Park Diaries 2025-06-04 | Donald Trump's Big Beautiful Bill (the House version, anyway) will have widespread impacts across the National Park System and on America's Public Lands. The bill includes provisions for mining in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, oil and gas development in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, as well as a host of provisions aimed to bolster oil and gas production, mining, and logging on public lands. However, the bill was also stripped of two particularly devastating provisions: the forced approval of the Ambler Mining Road through Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve in Alaska, and an debilitating sell-off of 500,000 acres of public land in Nevada and Utah. We break it all down in this video.Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources:npca.org/articles/8891-house-advances-budget-bill-reducing-national-park-service-staff-amid-peak nationalparkstraveler.org/2025/05/house-bill-drops-public-lands-sales-seen-harmful-parks-wildlife westernpriorities.org/2025/05/trumps-big-beautiful-bill-is-still-ugly-for-public-lands npca.org/articles/9089-6-worst-things-that-happened-to-national-parks-last-month npca.org/resources/4103-the-reconciliation-bill-that-could-reshape-national-parks-forever cbo.gov/publication/61415Images:StoryblocksNPCAYale University
How Devils Tower Got Its Name National Park Diaries 2025-05-26 | America's first National Monument was proclaimed in 1906. Weirdly though, it wasn't always called Devils Tower. In fact, for as long as humans have known about the Tower, it has carried a different, far less satanic name: Bear Lodge. This is a video about how the name Devils Tower came about, the quirky nomenclatural rules about how we name places in the US, and how we ascribe, or remove, meaning to those places. Enjoy!Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.com/@nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources:nps.gov/articles/devils-tower-name-genesis.htm#:~:text=by%20then%2DLt.-,Col.,%22Devil's%20Tower%22%20was%20created.wyomingpublicmedia.org/politics-government/2025-01-10/lummis-and-barrasso-reintroduce-bill-to-maintain-the-name-devils-tower-in-multi-decade-effortnationalparkstraveler.org/2018/11/hell-place-devils-role-national-park-place-namesImages and Music:StoryblocksSacred Ecology
National Park Sites of Massachusetts! National Park Diaries 2025-05-22 | Comment down below which state/territory you want me to cover next. Already done: HI, ME, AK, UT, SC, IN
National Park Sites of Indiana! National Park Diaries 2025-05-18 | Comment below with which state/territory you want me to cover next. Already done: HI, ME, AK, UT, SC
Every National Park Site in South Carolina #history #nationalpark #travel National Park Diaries 2025-05-16 | Vote in the comments for which state/territory you want me to cover next. Already done: HI, ME, AK, UT
Every National Park Site in Utah #nationalpark #travel #utah National Park Diaries 2025-05-13 | Leave a comment with which state/territory you think I should cover next. The one with the most likes wins! Already covered: Hawaii, Maine, and Alaska
How I Got TRAPPED In An Elevator at Wind Cave National Park (Full Story) National Park Diaries 2025-05-02 | So.... yeah. I got trapped in an elevator at Wind Cave National Park. I shared a shorter version of this story a few days ago, but wanted to give you all the full rundown because, well, I have more thoughts and some larger takeaways from this harrowing experience.
The WEIRDEST National Parks National Park Diaries 2025-04-21 | I've got a fun one for y'all today. We're covering weird, administrative oddities in the National Park System! I've come across quite a few of these over my years of research and I'm sharing a few here as a bit of a palate cleanser for some of the heavier topics we've been covering recently. Enjoy!Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.net/@nationalparkdiaries "Why Camp David is Located in a National Park" - youtu.be/EkgtDwBf6Q8?si=pj6gF6Gu0KUfG5L4Music and ImagesStoryblocksNPS
Every National Park Site in ALASKA, Part 2 #alaska #nationalpark #travel National Park Diaries 2025-04-18 | Comment below which state/territory you want to see next! Alaska, Hawaii, and Maine have been covered. Don't waste your vote!
Every National Park Site in ALASKA, part 1 #alaska #nationalpark #travel National Park Diaries 2025-04-16 | ...
Every National Park in Maine, Explained #maine #acadia #nationalpark National Park Diaries 2025-04-11 | Comment below which state/territory you want to see covered next! Hawaii has already been done.
Antiquities Act + National Monuments, Explained National Park Diaries 2025-04-09 | Alright, we're finishing up this little 2-part mini-series on National Monuments with... well, an explainer. In this video, we learn all about how National Monuments are created (2 ways), a little bit of historical context on the Antiquities Act, and the various controversies, questions, and misconceptions that have circled around National Monuments over the years. After watching this video, you'll have everything you need to know to understand America's National Monuments!Take action for National Monuments:act.npca.org/page/79022/action/1 monumentsforall.orgVideos mentioned in this video:“Every National Monument That Became a National Park”youtu.be/IHA_VDw-OMI “The Bears Ears Controversy Explained”youtu.be/yjYYAx1PYdY “Why National Monuments are BANNED in Wyoming”youtu.be/K529FQ6CfJg “The Incredible Conservation Legacy of Jimmy Carter”youtu.be/AoZqk28E_lgSupport me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.net/@nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources: NPS National Monuments Toolhttp://nps.gov/subjects/archeology/national-monument-facts-and-figures.htm“Chief Justice Roberts invites Antiquities Act challenges”eenews.net/articles/chief-justice-roberts-invites-antiquities-act-challengesJustice Roberts Opinionlegacy-assets.eenews.net/open_files/assets/2021/03/22/document_gw_18.pdf House Report on Antiquities Act, with Memo from Edgar Lee Hewetts3.documentcloud.org/documents/20708759/house-report-no-59-22242.pdf Antiquities Act Textnps.gov/parkhistory/online_books/fhpl/antiquities_act.pdfCongressional Research Service Report on the Antiquities Actcongress.gov/crs-product/R41330#:~:text=The%20Antiquities%20Act%20of%201906%20authorizes%20the%20President%20to%20proclaim,with%20the%20proper%20care%20andArgument In Favor of President’s Power to Abolish/Diminish NMshttps://openyls.law.yale.edu/bitstream/handle/20.500.13051/8271/JohnYooToddGazianoPreside.pdf?sequence=2&isAllowed=y Arguments in Opposition to President’s Power to Abolish/Diminish NMspapers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3095744 papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2967807 “Unleashing American Energy”doi.gov/pressreleases/secretary-doug-burgum-signs-first-round-secretarys-orders-unleash-american-energyImages and Music:StoryblocksNPS
Every National Park Site in Hawaii, Explained #travel #hawaii #nationalpark National Park Diaries 2025-04-07 | Comment below with the state/territory you want to see covered next.
Every National Monument That Became a National Park National Park Diaries 2025-03-25 | Our National Monuments are, shall we say, under attack? So, to illustrate their importance to our public lands throughout history, I've put together this quick little vid for you all to highlight every single National Park (of our current 63) that started as a National Monument. Spoiler: there's a lot of them.Protect Our National Monuments: act.npca.org/page/79022/action/1Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.net/@UC0Z-E_L3z_JLVNuFoS8fefASources and Resources:nps.gov/subjects/archeology/national-monument-facts-and-figures.htmImages and Music:StoryblocksNPS
Every Type of Park Ranger, Explained National Park Diaries 2025-03-03 | With the firings of so many park rangers recently, I wanted to make an explainer letting everyone know just how hard they work and how important they are to literally keeping the entire National Park System afloat. The rangers you interact with during your National Park visits are only the tip of the iceberg to a dedicated team of absolutely critical individuals when it comes to operating, maintaining, and protecting National Parks and public lands. This explainer is all about the duties, responsibilities, and various roles that rangers undertake in our National ParksSupport for Rangers:NPCA: npca.org/1000jobsOutdoor Alliance: action.outdooralliance.org/a/agency-staffingAssociation of National Park Rangers - Info on the 'Ranger Emergency Relief Fund': facebook.com/share/p/1AQm317uVg Volunteer:volunteer.gov/s/global-search/national%20park%20serviceSupport me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesSources and Resources:nps.gov/common/uploads/teachers/lessonplans/Ranger%20career%20flowchart%20complete%20with%20summaries.pdfen.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Park_Service_rangeropm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0000/park-ranger-series-0025opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/classifying-general-schedule-positions/standards/0000/gs0025.pdfnpca.org/articles/6581-the-irreplaceable-value-of-national-park-service-staffnps.gov/calo/learn/management/upload/Seasonal-Jobs-Potentially-Available-with-the-National-Park-Service-Positions-Descriptions-rev-2018.pdf
How USAID Protects National Parks Around the World National Park Diaries 2025-02-17 | With USAID being shutdown, I wanted to bring your attention to one of its lesser known responsibilities: that of global conservation. In this video, I've highlighted for you several projects from around the world that were funded by USAID and which helped to conserve global biodiversity. They also benefited local communities and Americans alike. I myself had no idea about a lot of these, so this video was as much a learning opportunity for me as it was a teaching one. Enjoy.Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesSources and Resources:nytimes.com/2020/04/15/travel/colombia-lost-city-ciudad-perdida.html nytimes.com/2025/02/06/travel/national-parks-tourism-usaid.html web.archive.org/web/20250209160317/dai.com/our-work/projects/colombia-destination-nature-activity-dna birdlife.org/news/2020/11/17/saving-seychelles-disappearing-coral-reefs medium.com/usaid-2030/how-to-save-a-tiger-4e0610e0914b nytimes.com/2019/02/20/opinion/africa-national-parks.html nytimes.com/2025/02/12/opinion/usaid-foreign-aid.html nytimes.com/2025/02/08/us/politics/usaid-funding-trump-fact-check.html sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378112711005354?via%3Dihub rainforest-alliance.org/in-the-field/community-the-secret-to-stopping-deforestation-in-guatemala earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/152940/the-shrinking-selva-maya medium.com/usaid-2030/4-ways-usaid-promotes-community-based-conservation-d77dcff6547c https://carpe.umd.edu/sites/default/files/documentsarchive/Trip Rpt - Gabon_Dec2004.pdfImages and Music:StoryblocksUSAIDStephen Hiltner/NYTRainforest AllianceGorongosa National ParkJacob Jepreson
Joshua Trees, Explained National Park Diaries 2025-01-27 | Joshua Trees are icons of the National Park System, and of the Southwestern United States. I've covered their conservation challenges in a previous video, but for this one, we're jumping back in with a good old fashion natural history explainer. Be sure to let me know if you'd like to see videos like this for other iconic National Park species!Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesSupport me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiaries Images and Music:StoryblocksJonathan GuillotChristopher SmithShaun GonzalesSources and Resources:fs.usda.gov/database/feis/plants/tree/yucbre/all.html nps.gov/jotr/learn/nature/jtrees.htm nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Plants-and-Fungi/Joshua-Tree
The Incredible Conservation Legacy of Jimmy Carter National Park Diaries 2025-01-13 | America's 39th President, Jimmy Carter, passed away on December 29th, 2024 at the age of 100. Carter will be remembered as much for the things he accomplished out of office, as those he did in it. Carter's Administration was mired with domestic economic issues, an energy crisis, and the Iran Hostage Affair, but perhaps his most enduring legacy will be in the realm of conservation. Jimmy Carter created 39 new National Park Units while he was in office, including nearly all in Alaska. His contributions to the world of conservation simply can't be overstated. He will be missed. Thanks to Vlogbrothers for their sponsorship of this video.Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesSupport me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesImages and Music:StoryblocksSources and Resources:eenews.net/articles/jimmy-carters-conservation-legacy/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email georgiaconservancy.org/president-carter-environmental-legacy alaskamagazine.com/authentic-alaska/an-interview-with-president-carter/2 npca.org/articles/3413-jimmy-carter-an-icon-of-conservation-and-public-service nytimes.com/1979/01/15/archives/alaskans-protest-publicland-action-paul-reveres-ride-and-george-iii.html pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/carter-crisis nps.gov/articles/000/shaping-nps-carter-presidency.htm nps.gov/locations/alaska/upload/anilca-electronic-version.pdf
National Park Diaries 2024 Recap, Channel Health, and Future Plans National Park Diaries 2024-12-16 | Thanks for another great year of National Park Diaries!Videos:How National Parks Work in Japan: youtu.be/e0y8SFP6WFI?si=VTdzmPCTnGnWvLSnWhy Ocmulgee Mounds Might Be America's Next National Park: youtu.be/BbysB4KRhsE?si=n6YMYFigJ07WSLlLWhat America's Longest Highway Taught Me About National Parks: youtu.be/jLtT1gOIqvI?si=3kaV8PFqJ9yHgqArWolf Trap: The Most Unique National Park You've Never Heard Of: youtu.be/jLtT1gOIqvI?si=3kaV8PFqJ9yHgqAr Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.net/@nationalparkdiaries?xmt=AQGzuZQ6yE8AYksKt5yeSP8Ov8z23JUNKE-a7C5AgzHwi8kImages and Music:Storyblocks
Why Yellowstones Northern Entrance is an Arch National Park Diaries 2024-11-25 | Ah, yes, the Roosevelt Arch! An icon of America's first national park. Located at Yellowstone's Northern Entrance in Gardiner, Montana, the Roosevelt Arch is one of the most iconic entrances in all of the National Park System. Maybe not in terms of scenic beauty (although there is that too), but certainly in terms of shear symbolism and monumentality. The story of the arch is one that is filled with ups and downs, much like the National Parks themselves, and has seen Yellowstone through much of its history. Join me in learning all about this iconic National Park monument!Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Threads: threads.net/@nationalparkdiariesSource and Resources:yellowstone.org/history-of-the-roosevelt-arch-10-fascinating-facts yellowstonepark.com/park/history/roosevelt-arch nps.gov/yell/learn/upload/YS_11_3_sm.pdfImages and Music:StoryblocksMontana State Library
These National Parks NEVER Existed National Park Diaries 2024-10-28 | Alright! For (probably) the last time, we're doing a variation on a topic that has garnered much fanfare here on the channel. This topic was much requested, and to be honest, I hesitated even making this video because of the shear VOLUME of national parks that have been proposed over the years. But, I found a way to constrain the criteria, limiting us to 11 total parks (+ 5 bonus ones) that have been authorized as units of the National Park System, but for whatever reason, have just never been fully established. Again, I think these videos make for a great exercise in perspective, helping us to understand the full depth and breadth of the the National Park System over the years. It helps us to understand how it has evolved and changed with the times. I really don't think I'll be able to wring another video out of this topic, so for the last time, enjoy!Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/c/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesPresidential Parks: youtu.be/YyF2I0e_a6s?si=mv70l75SxIxY5nnBOther videos in this series: youtu.be/Kh1xBrLF7JY?si=O8USMHxCpW3xamsv and youtu.be/M-VKI-UqPKA?si=MVX7GY6JnMLoGqYXSources and Resources:http://www.georgewright.org/074.pdfhttp://www.georgewright.org/083hogenauer.pdfgrandfather.com/historynps.gov/aboutus/recent-changes.htmgwotmemorialfoundation.org/aboutndswm.orgen.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adams_Memorialnps.gov/colt/learn/management/parkdev.htmImages and Music:StoryblocksDavid SeibertWikimedia Commons/selfLava DocNPSCosmos MarinerGrandfather Mountain Stewardship FoundationVisit Palm SpringsPatrick Henry Memorial Foundation
The National Park That Never Sees the Sun National Park Diaries 2024-10-15 | Phew, okay! It's been a minute! But I am indeed back with another video. This one is all about the geology of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. I was drawn to this park because of the famous statistic that some portions of the bottom of the canyon only ever see around 33 minutes of sunlight per day. Me being me, I wondered why that was. And very quickly during my research, I found that it's because of the steep walls of the canyon, which don't allow sunlight to penetrate to its depths unless the sun is basically right overhead. But also me being me, I wondered WHY those walls were that steep. And the result is this video. The reason it took so long is I got some fancy new animations made for this video, which took a long time to make, but they turned out FANTASTIC. Super happy with them as I think they really help illustrate a lot of the concepts I was going for. Shoutout to Alex for those, and I hope you enjoy!Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesSources and Resources:npshistory.com/publications/blca/index.htmusgs.gov/geology-and-ecology-of-national-parks/geology-black-canyon-gunnison-national-parknps.gov/blca/learn/historyculture/people.htmnps.gov/blca/learn/nature/geology.htmnps.gov/blca/learn/nature/building-black-canyon.htmnps.gov/articles/nps-geodiversity-atlas-black-canyon-of-the-gunnison.htmirma.nps.gov/DataStore/DownloadFile/426425nps.gov/parkhistory/online_books/geology/publications/bul/1191/sec3.htmImages and Music:StoryblocksNPS
MORE National Parks That No Longer Exist National Park Diaries 2024-09-16 | A few months ago, I made a video titled "These National Parks No Longer Exist," which was all about the 5 National Parks that, well, no longer exist. In this video, we're taking things a step further, and covering ALL of the NPS units that no longer exist. Everything from National Historic Sites to National Monuments to National Memorials, and more. Enjoy!"These National Parks No Longer Exist." - youtube.com/watch?v=M-VKI-UqPKA&t=19s "Death of a National Park: The Fossil Cycad Story" - youtu.be/BkMnEkiNZL4"Mar a Lago Used to be a National Park..." - youtu.be/vgqJTRk4AsU "Wolf Trap: The Most Unique National Park You've Never Heard Of" - youtu.be/9YdC2w_QINQ Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/nationalparkdiaries Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiaries Sources and Resources:http://www.georgewright.org/074hogenauer.pdf http://www.georgewright.org/083hogenauer.pdfhttp://www.georgewright.org/331weber.pdfnationalparkstraveler.org/2009/06/pruning-parks-it-took-park-service-over-20-years-get-out-under-kennedy-center-1972-19944046 Images and Music:StoryblocksNPSWikimedia Commons
The Impossible Problem Facing National Parks National Park Diaries 2024-08-26 | There is an impossible problem at the heart of America's National Parks. It's known as the Dual Mandate, and it stems from a single sentence in the National Park Service Organic Act that tasks the Agency with preserving National Park resources unimpaired while facilitating public access to those same resources. Over the years, we have seen countless examples of how these two mandates (hence, the Dual Mandate) have come into conflict. This video is an exploration of the Dual Mandate, its origins, and its implications for a changing world. Enjoy!Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesSources and Resources:govinfo.gov/content/pkg/COMPS-1725/pdf/COMPS-1725.pdf nps.gov/parkhistory/online_books/anps/anps_7a.htm npshistory.com/publications/winks.htm nationalparkstraveler.org/2012/02/revisiting-organic-act-can-it-meet-next-century’s-conservation-challenges9441nps.gov/subjects/policy/upload/MP_2006.pdf http://www.georgewright.org/341jones.pdf outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/news-analysis/national-parks-reservations-2024Images and Music:StoryblocksNPSUSA Today
Every National Park Dedicated to an American President National Park Diaries 2024-08-12 | The homes, birthplaces, residences, and other commemorative sites associated with US Presidents are numerous throughout the National Park System. In this video, I walk you through every American President and the NPS locations associated with them. Some Presidents have none, others only have 1 site, and still others have multiple, but in each case, these locations are a view into the people, places, and events that have shaped the leaders elected to America's highest office. Enjoy!Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesSources and Resources:NPSImages and Music:StoryblocksNPS
Project 2025 is a Nightmare for Americas Public Lands... National Park Diaries 2024-07-30 | Whelp, everyone else is talking about it, so I figured I should to. In this video, we're discussing Project 2025, the much maligned "Presidential Transition Project" for the next Republican Presidential Administration. For fans of National Parks and public lands, Project 2025 is an absolute nightmare. It recommends massive increases in oil and gas drilling on public lands, including in places like the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Boundary Waters Canoe Area, and the previously off-limits buffer area surrounding Chaco Culture National Historical Park. It recommends huge staffing and budget cuts for federal land management agencies, the repeal of the Antiquities Act, and the gutting of the National Environmental Policy Act and the Endangered Species Act. It is a verifiable FEAST for extractive industries and private corporations who would seek to profit of our public lands. In this video, I hope to convince you of the dangers it poses to places we all love.Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesSources and Resources:static.project2025.org/2025_MandateForLeadership_FULL.pdfoutsideonline.com/culture/opinion/far-right-plan-destroy-national-monumentsoutsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/environment/project-2025-paywall-weatherhcn.org/articles/trump-vs-biden-on-the-climate/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=emailweb.archive.org/web/20200926215005/nytimes.com/2020/09/26/us/william-perry-pendley-blm.htmloutsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/environment/william-perry-pendley-acting-director-blm-rulingnews.bloomberglaw.com/environment-and-energy/blm-headquarters-moves-to-building-housing-oil-company-officeslegacy-assets.eenews.net/open_files/assets/2021/03/22/document_gw_18.pdfwesternpriorities.org/winning-the-westfederalnewsnetwork.com/workforce/2021/09/interior-will-move-blm-headquarters-senior-officials-back-to-dc Images and Music:StoryblocksNPS
Wolf Trap: The Most Unique National Park Youve Never Heard Of National Park Diaries 2024-07-15 | Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts is a one-of-a-kind National Park - literally. There is no other unit of the National Park System dedicated to the display, education, and interpretation of the performing arts. Largely the result of the visionary leadership of the late Catherine Filene Shouse, Wolf Trap is an extraordinary park with an extraordinary mission. Trust men, you will not want to miss out on the story of one of the most unique National Parks in America. Enjoy!Support on Patreon: patreon.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesSources and Resources:parkplanning.nps.gov/showFile.cfm?projectID=94089&MIMEType=application%252Fpdf&filename=WOTR CLR Final_lowres_05212021.pdf&sfid=478222 http://npshistory.com/publications/foundation-documents/wotr-fd-overview.pdf http://npshistory.com/publications/wotr/adhi-update-2023.pdf nps.gov/wotr/learn/historyculture/shouse.htmnps.gov/wotr/learn/history-culture.htmnps.gov/articles/000/setting-the-stage-for-a-national-park-for-the-performing-arts.htmnps.gov/wotr/learn/management/index.htmImages and Music:StoryblocksCreator MusicNPSWolf Trap Foundation
The Remarkable Restoration of Cuyahoga Valley National Park National Park Diaries 2024-07-02 | I've been wanting to tell the story of the restoration of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, literally, since the day I started National Park Diaries. This is a story that has captivated me since I first heard about it and is really a perfect fit for the types of stories I like to tell on National Park Diaries. I told myself though, that I would only do this story when I had the opportunity to travel to Cuyahoga Valley National Park myself... Well, the time has finally come! I made the trip to Cuyahoga Valley, saw the restoration with my own two eyes, and I'm here now to tell you its story. Enjoy!Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/userFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesCheck out "Who Runs This Park:" whorunsthispark.comFollow Maddie on Instagram: instagram.com/whorunsthisparkSources and Resources:columbusmonthly.com/story/lifestyle/around-town/2023/02/21/ohio-cuyahoga-valley-national-park-showcases-a-magnificent-restoration-story/69927902007 smithsonianmag.com/history/cuyahoga-river-caught-fire-least-dozen-times-no-one-cared-until-1969-180972444 youtube.com/watch?v=nlHiaZFvcXA youtube.com/watch?v=OQOZKE6iB_A youtube.com/watch?v=_jxV6BbREfY&t=38s youtu.be/18JpT61rX6A](youtu.be/18JpT61rX6Atime.com/3921976/cuyahoga-fire washingtonpost.com/news/volokh-conspiracy/wp/2014/06/22/the-fable-of-the-burning-river-45-years-later time.com/archive/6637266/americas-sewage-system-and-the-price-of-optimism cleveland.com/metro/2009/01/after_the_flames_the_story_beh.html slate.com/technology/2012/12/clean-water-act-40th-anniversary-the-greatest-success-in-environmental-law-made-rivers-stop-burning.html ideastream.org/news/environment-energy/2019-07-15/watershed-how-a-photo-sparked-a-revolution cuyahogaaoc.org nps.gov/cuva/learn/cuyahoga-river-restoration.htm nps.gov/articles/000/the-cuyahoga-river-recovers.htm nps.gov/articles/000/cuyahoga-national-heritage-river.htm nps.gov/articles/000/removing-toxins-at-krejci-dump.htm nps.gov/articles/story-of-the-fire.htm nps.gov/articles/carl-stokes-and-the-river-fire.htm nps.gov/articles/how-a-national-park-helps-a-river-recover.htm conservancyforcvnp.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Magazine_Fall15-Winter16.pdf nps.gov/articles/000/the-cuyahoga-river-once-on-fire-now-a-recreation-destination.htm nps.gov/parkhistory/online_books/admin_policies/policy2-appb.htm youtube.com/watch?v=kXtMS-aqUxs&t=11s http://pshistory.com/publications/cuva/adhi.pdf nps.gov/articles/project-profile-bil-ecrp-cuva-doverbender.htm#:~:text=Hundreds of wells have been,properties that contained abandoned wells](nps.gov/articles/project-profile-bil-ecrp-cuva-doverbender.htm#:~:text=Hundreds%20of%20wells%20have%20been,properties%20that%20contained%20abandoned%20wellsImages and Music:StoryblocksNPSWKYC-TV PBS
Why Ocmulgee Mounds Might be Americas Next National Park National Park Diaries 2024-06-03 | Ocmulgee Mounds might become America's next National Park, albeit with a sizeable boundary expansion and a less-than-perfect set of logistical challenges. In this video, I'm giving you a deep dive on the effort to create an Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve, including what this park would even entail, the reasons its proponents are pushing for it in the first place, and why the National Park Service itself doesn't think it should be created...Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesSources and Resources:youtu.be/2AaQSWyKFqA?si=lyISPFWafdIoZEe7npca.org/resources/3189-diamond-in-the-roughparkplanning.nps.gov/document.cfm?parkID=415&projectID=91276&documentID=132895georgiarecorder.com/briefs/bill-to-create-ocmulgee-mounds-national-park-near-macon-gets-broad-backing-from-georgia-delegationthecurrentga.org/2024/05/04/oklahomas-muscogee-creek-nation-prepares-to-co-manage-georgias-first-national-parkImages and Music:StoryblocksYouTube Creator MusicNPS (Ed Jackson)LWCA Coalition
Congaree National Park: The Tallest Forest Youve Never Heard Of National Park Diaries 2024-05-13 | Congaree National Park is home to one of the tallest forests in the world. Yes, you read that correctly: Congaree National Park is home to one of the tallest forests in the world. The park is home to 15 species of tree that are the tallest of their species and is also home to the largest concentration of champion trees in North America. Congaree's big trees truly are a sight to behold. And it's all thanks to floods. The floodplain ecology at Congaree is the KEY ingredient that allows this forest to produce so many giants. Those floodplain dynamics are the subject of today's video, enjoy!Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesSources and Resources:usgs.gov/geology-and-ecology-of-national-parks/geology-congaree-national-park#:~:text=The%20wetlands%20of%20Congaree%20National,by%20walking%20on%20the%20boardwalk.usgs.gov/geology-and-ecology-of-national-parks/ecology-congaree-national-parknpca.org/articles/3714-congaree-champion-trees-synchronous-fireflies-and-morenps.gov/cong/learn/historyculture/history-culture.htmnps.gov/cong/learn/nature/index.htmnationalparkstraveler.org/2008/08/flooding-nurtures-life-congaree-national-parkhttp://npshistory.com/publications/cong/index.htmhttp://npshistory.com/publications/cong/deeply-rooted.pdfpiquenewsmagazine.com/travel/the-champion-trees-of-congaree-2498066nps.gov/cong/faqs.htmamericanforests.org/article/congaree-where-the-trees-are-still-talldiscoversouthcarolina.com/articles/champion-trees-are-star-attraction-at-congaree-national-parkoldgrowthforest.net/ogfn-blog/2021/11/18/congaree-national-park-a-hidden-gem-for-forest-loversnps.gov/rlc/ogbfrec/watershed.htmImages and Music:StoryblocksYouTube Creator MusicNPSAlexander Evans, 2011Lamar University Archives and Special Collections
Youre Wrong About the Worst National Parks. National Park Diaries 2024-04-29 | In this video, I'll introduce you to the philosophy of monumentalism, which has been one of the dominant forces shaping our National Parks since their inception. Through this lens, we can understand why certain National Parks were even created in the first place, what size they were, and what was allowed inside of them. Even today, your perception of the "best" and "worst" National Parks has probably been influence by ways of thinking that can be tied directly back to... monumentalism.Support NPD on Patreon: patreon.com/nationalparkdiariesFollow NPD on Instagram: instagram.com/nationalparkdiariesSources and Resources:"National Parks: The American Experience" by Alfred RunteImages and Music:Storyblocks
