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About 5 minutes before I took this photo, a large thin slab exfoliated and fell from the top of the fin to the far right. Unfortunately the camera was not out! Photo was taken during the "golden hour" and just as the moon was rising.

Photo: mlgb

The diversity of Yellowstone is illustrated by the Grand Canyon & River.

Photo: berhbs

On our day left in Seattle after a family cruise to Alaska, we journeyed to Mt. Rainier for the day. It was a quiet Sunday in the park, and the weather was absolutely beautiful. Spent the day with various stops driving to the top. A definite must see for anyone in Seattle - and such a beautiful place, I definitely will be going back one day.

Photo: LoveAdventure

Sunrise in the Grand Canyon on my 35th birthday. I can't imagine a better way I could have spent the day.

Photo: LoveAdventure

The best way to view the colorful and dramatic rock formations is with a scenic boat tour. A variety of minerals account for the kaleidoscope of hues. Located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan on the dark blue shore of Lake Superior, Pictured Rocks also features many great hiking trails.

Photo: Laura Ash Joeckel

A joshua tree in the azure January sky

Photo: Adam Hlasny

Some leftover snow dusts the sides of the canyon

Photo: Adam Hlasny

On the way from Muir woods to Stinson beach is this grove of redwoods

Photo: Venkat Ramasubramanian

We were driving along the road and came around a bend to see this beautiful view. The lake was so still and the mountains and sky were reflected so perfectly we had to stop to enjoy the moment.

Photo: Ashley Tooley

The twin peaks across Jordan Pond have always been known as the Bubbles. This location is one of the most popular in this vast park.

Photo: BetsyKellenberger

Two words I use to describe this photo: Pristine Majestic

Photo: berhbs

In July 2009 as my daughter, husband and I enjoyed our first trip to Yellowstone, we went to the Mud Volcano area. As we turned a corner along the boardwalk, we saw several bison standing next to the walkway, so we stopped to see where they were headed. Then my usually extremely safety-conscious husband walked a bit closer for a picture; suddenly the thing got up ON the boardwalk and walked toward him! He snapped this picture and then turned back towards us. The bison ambled along a few more steps and then stepped off the boardwalk on his way to join his bison-buddies at another thermal area/bison-spa! My husband said he was totally surprised that the animal stepped up onto the boardwalk; I guess bison just figure it was made for their convenience!

Photo: texasbookworm

As we were driving through the Tetons, we stopped at Oxbow Bend to photograph Mt. Moran's reflection in Jackson Lake. The water was like glass and the reflection perfectly mirrored the peaks.

Photo: slbchicago

It was just us with Nature. It was amazing!

Photo: suzannebyrne

OK, so I know that Niagara Falls is not a national park. Still, this image intrigues me...where is the owner of these fancy stilettos? One's imagination runs wild...

Photo: azzure

A leisurely 2 hr. hike through boreal forest and along rocky shoreline brings you to Scoville Point surrounded by the sparkling deep blue Lake Superior waters. Isle Royale, inhabited by a large moose and wolf population, is a true wilderness park accessible only by ferry boat or seaplane.

Photo: Laura Ash Joeckel

View looking away from the Yellowstone Falls.

Photo: worldwidetraveler

Dusk at Badlands is something not to be missed.

Photo: worldwidetraveler

While hiking the Sunset Rim trail....there was no doubt to where it ended.

Photo: travlingdude

Though Delicate Arch is the prize after this hike.....the trail to there is not too shabby!!!

Photo: travlingdude

Chaco Culture National Historic Park, in New Mexico, enshrines the ancient architectural relics of an extinct native American civilization. Many of the stone buildings which occupied the most densely built area of the site were destroyed and buried when a large slab of the cliff face collapsed on it. Perhaps the remaining stone structure at the lower left of the picture will suffer a similar demise.

Photo: Paul Baylin

There is a rest stop along the southwest entry of the park, where I took this photo of the majestic mountain with the trees in the foreground that looked like guardsmen.

Photo: margotcv

The beginning of our seven mile walk

Photo: iris1745

We were on the 'rim' walk, from Hermits Rest. It's a seven mile walk back to the 'lodges'. This was the easy walk. One mis-step and down. Next day we did a six mile round trip down into the canyon. Incredible 'lady'.

Photo: iris1745 Richard

This was a memorable trip to Glacier National Park and this was my favourite shot. The sheer beauty of the place is beyond words.

Photo: louisecaul

This group of bison seen from the Grand Loop Road was our first bison sighting in the park. Better in the field than in the road!

Photo: Posha

We finally arrived in Mammoth at the end of a very long day of traveling on the Grand Loop Road. When we came across Orange Spring Mound as we neared the end of Upper Terrace Drive we were wowed. The contrast of the orange against the bright blue sky demanded to be photographed.

Photo: Posha

This herd made for a wonderful sight once we reached the top of Mt. Washburn. I just loved how they looked with the blue sky behind them, and the one who seemed to notice we were there.

Photo: Erica L. Wainer

It was a cool, overcast day when we visited Mammoth. I had the same feeling when I arrived that I had when I first visited Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon: that I was seeing a place that simply didn't look like anything else I'd ever seen before.

Photo: Erica L. Wainer

We had just arrived in the Grand Tetons and this horseback riding group came out of the foothills. I just loved the look of this rider, and his horse was beautiful.

Photo: Erica L. Wainer

I awoke at dawn to an unworldly glow coming through the window of my room at the historic Many Glacier Hotel. Grabbing my point-and-shoot camera, I went behind the hotel to take this picture of Mount Grinnell. Swiftcurrent Lake is between the hotel and the mountain. The image is unaltered - exactly as it was when the film was developed.

Photo: Bill Somerville

A peaceful morning on Lake McDonald on the west side of the park. too perfect to break the stillness with a boat. . . I'll just have to wait.

Photo: enzian

This is the view that greeted me at sunrise when I looked out the window of our room at Many glacier Hotel on Swiftcurrent Lake.

Photo: enzian

We hiked to Observation Point on the East Rim, and ended up looking DOWN on the famous (or infamous) Angel's Landing

Photo: enzian

A swim in this lovely pool, even behind the waterfall, is your reward for hiking the 7 miles in to Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp.

Photo: enzian

I volunteer to be a "meadow rover" to help protect the fragile meadows by reminding people to stay on the trails. What a gorgeous day this was!

Photo: enzian

I was on the Holland America Westerdam ship while taking this photo. Nature at it's best. The contract of rock, greenery, fog and ice along the sea edge. What a beautiful moment.

Photo: Debi Jenkins

While I was standing on the deck of Holland America's Westerdam ship, I was able to photograph a glacier calving. You can see the remnants of the calving glacier in the frigid ocean water below the glacier. A moment I will never forget!

Photo: Debi Jenkins

I was on the deck of Holland America's Westerdam ship and photographed this majestic glacier. Nothing can replace being there and hearing the glacier calving. It was an experience like no other. This photo is a reminder of how powerful nature can be by enticing your senses of sight and sound!

Photo: Debi Jenkins

We were just settling in the car and discussing our time spent in Mesa Verde, enjoying the Ancient Puebloans history. As we slowly made our approach to the main road, we met up with this Coyote. I couldn't believe the wonderful opportunity I had to snap the picture. He gave me a look of non concern as I snapped several pictures. This was my favorite!

Photo: DianneLeimbach

Of the 3 Natural Bridges, we got closest to the Kachina Bridge. The 210 ft. tall bridge made us feel so small. I'll never forget the beauty and the awe when I first laid eyes on this remarkable, natural work of art. How grand the Universe is!

Photo: DianneLeimbach

A group of wild horses along the drive through the park.

Photo: meme27

This park has a rugged beauty!

Photo: meme27

I captured this shot at Mammoth Hot Springs of an elk drinking from the water sprinkler.

Photo: meme27

In Yellowstone the animals definitely control the traffic. This bus was crawling along behind the bison and the passengers were all crowded to the front of the bus taking pictures. The wildlife at Yellowstone was as awesome as the parks natural beauty!

Photo: meme27

The picture just doesn't show the magnificance of the erosion. Breathe taking.

Photo: bredhairedgirl

The colors looked so pretty looking at these rock formations.

Photo: bredhairedgirl

Walking down from Weeping Wall, I saw this tree branch with cracks and a few bits of bark left. I thought it looked interesting.

Photo: bredhairedgirl

A beautiful afternoon looking at the granite monuments was mesmerizing

Photo: jollyjo

Our early morning hike in Bryce Canyon over Labor Day took us along the rim trail. We surprised a chipmunk, who scurried across the rocks. When it saw that it had reached the end of its escape route, it simply stopped---as if to admire the view.

Photo: marciacole

We took an early morning hike around the rim of Bryce Canyon over Labor Day weekend. With the roots exposed, perched on the edge and seeming to cling to the rock, this tree epitomized survival in the Utah canyon.

Photo: marciacole

I woke up at 5:30 and decided to drive down the road from our campsite and the view of the Tetons was breathtaking. They were enveloped by clouds and then once in a while the sun would break through. It was amazing.

Photo: ekwest

Visting Yellowstone and up nice and early to see this gorgeous view

Photo: ElaineF

I went to visit my cousin in Colorado, we did a road trip to Grand Teton and Yellowstone. It was amazing! This particular morning was gorgeous when we were leaving Grand Teton.

Photo: ElaineF

I went to visit my cousin in Colorado, we decided to do a last minute road trip to Yellowstone. What an amazing trip! We had a the time of our lives!

Photo: ElaineF

Winter camping in the Lamar Valley in Yellowstone National Park means waking to beauty: steam rising from the creek had coated the trees with hoar frost. The total silence of the morning, the crispness of the air and the vista... unforgettable.

Photo: Cal Bebee

Fishing along the Madison River in Yellowstone Park, a friend and I were surprised by a small herd of bison with several calves. They forded the river practically in front of us! We didn't get many fish that day, but will remember the bison forever.

Photo: Cal Bebee

Hiking along the Yellowstone River (in background), I surprised two Rocky Mt Bighorn sheep grazing above the river in mid-afternoon. They seemed to tolerate my presence, so I photographed them and moved on.

Photo: Cal Bebee

Each morning in Yellowstone, we woke up to rolling hills covered in low lying fog. Beautiful to look at and photograph, before the sunrise burns through the mist.

Photo: Brian Mosoff

Perhaps the most famous waterfall in Yellowstone just after a quick morning shower brought out this sweeping rainbow.

Photo: Brian Mosoff

Though the days are hot, night's in Yellowstone are quite cool, and so, each night a fire was prepared to warm us to sleep.

Photo: Brian Mosoff

A view of Grand Teton from inside Cunningham Cabin at high noon.

Photo: Brian Mosoff

On a cold and windy evening, walking along Yellowstone Lake, I came across this beautiful shot - a captivating log engulfed by the flowing water

Photo: Brian Mosoff

The scenery in Glacier National Park is spectacular although the scale is too awesome to depict in a simple photo. You have to see the beauty and majesty with your own eyes!

Photo: Leslie Tiller

We went to Logan Pass and took the Hidden Lake Nature Trail back to the lake. Along the trail we saw many examples of nature. Fields of wild flowers, snow patches and montain goats. But the real beauty was at the Hidden Lake Overlook were you got a great view of the lake and the valley.

Photo: Linda Bailey

We went to see the "Grand Canyon" of Yellowstone. We walked along the North Rim Trail to see the Lower Falls where the sun was in a great spot and created this beaustiful rainbow in the mist from the fall.

Photo: Linda Bailey

I went on a photo safari while staying in Yellowstone in July 09. One stop was in the Hayden Valley, were we came across a large herds of buffalo. This one was off to the side and I thought it was a great contrast,a mammoth beast walking into a field of dainty flowers.

Photo: Linda Bailey

Took this picture while hiking in Yellowstone in May 08. One of my favorite photos.

Photo: Roger Bravo

Where, but in the Everglades, could you find such a concentration of alligators in one place! It appears it was the perfect spot for an afternoon nap in the sun.

Photo: marchpearl

I had my camera focused on this Great Egret standing in the tall grasses for about 5 minutes waiting to get a good shot. Just when I decided to turn my camera to another point of interest, the bird took off, affording me this treasured picture of a beautiful Great Egret in flight.

Photo: marchpearl

This place is truly magical! You KNOW that you’re in the desert of New Mexico, but, at first glance, you could very well be in the ocean with the sun glaring down and boats with full sails all around you.

Photo: marchpearl

It’s a fun thing, when visiting White Sands, to discover the tracks of the desert creatures that call this awesome place home. Here a Sidewinder’s path is clearly visible but, to our disappointment, no sight of him could be found.

Photo: marchpearl

Our first visit to Utah!

Photo: jedivader

The amazing orange hoodoos of Bryce National Park in the afternoon light as viewed from Bryce Point.

Photo: Rebalyn

The water and rock of Christine Falls surrounded by green, representing the typical beauty of Mount Rainier National Park.

Photo: Rebalyn

Looking out over Zion after the short but steep hike to the top of Angel's Landing.

Photo: Rebalyn

The Wright Brother National Monument marks the spot where modern day flight was invented.

Photo: Gerb

Driving across the country from Virginia to California in a Jeep Wrangler groaning with crap. The ticket booth worker at the park was like- do you have any rocks or skulls or whatever in this car?- and we were like no just this awesome dog! She laughed and said the park is dog friendly so we took a picture.

Photo: Kevin Inman

This was our first family vacation to Maine. We were struck by how rugged and beautiful the shoreline was. We could see why this light is so often photographed.

Photo: Timg0104

I was blown away by the spectacular rock walls surrounding me. I was in the middle of a river to capture this amazing scene.

Photo: Jacky Chan

It was so great to be surrounded by the stunning Grand Canyon landscape and it was an added bonus to get the moment of sunset captured!

Photo: Jacky Chan

Sunset clouds over the lodge at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Photo: chunumber1

I would say the 4.5 mi trek to this point was definitely worth it. Only saw about 4 other people the whole 9 mi trip. Beautiful vistas and almost all to ourselves. Thanks John Muir!

Photo: akleinester

After a six hour bus drive through clouds and mist on Friday, we woke up to this view on Saturday morning. I cried......

Photo: jwiley

The most photographed Mill along the Parkway, just beautiful no matter the season.

Photo: j.stone

Camping along the cliffs on a 5-day canoe trip down the Green River allowed us to take in the awesome surroundings, including this stunning nightfall.

Photo: aprillilacs

At a star party in late April at Joshua Tree National Park, the constellation Orion appears prominently between two Joshua trees. Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky, peaks through the leaves of the tree on the left.

Photo: Jeffrey_Kramer

The minutes ticked by as the clouds loomed over the sun. It was almost sunset, and the clouds were everywhere. For a scant minute though, the sun shone through the clouds, and I was able to get this lucky shot.

Photo: Kit Farmer

The Grand Canyon is massive. I don't think a single photo could ever represent that. But this one shows the river that carved the canyon over millions of years.

Photo: Kit Farmer

I wanted to try to get at least part of the scale of this massive canyon into the picture. The small people and the enormous canyon. I don't think a picture can ever capture it fully, but this at least captures part of it.

Photo: Kit Farmer

We were nearly back to our starting point when I took this photo to remind us of the grandeur and beauty of this place.

Photo: Sue Bolton

You can see Half Dome from so many places in Yosemite and in published photos, but Sentinel Dome is my favorite. Its a hot, sunny, dusty, and dry mile from the trail head to Sentinel Dome's base - far enough to feel the over 8,000 foot elevation. Then you must travel the final 100 yards at a very steep angle to the flat top of the dome and the most amazing views of the Yosemite valley. The view gives you a great shot of Half Dome and a larger perspective of the vast and remote park that you don't see from many other places.

Photo: vsoscia

On his first trip though 3 National Parks, our son was proud to became a Junior Ranger at Zion, Bryce and Grand Canyon. Here at Grand Canyon he earned his third badge and became a Scorpion.

Photo: LCP

One of the most unusual and incredible sights -- hoodoos as Bryce.

Photo: LCP

We had heard stories of the eruptions at the Great Fountain Geyser and there were rumors that it was going to go at any time. It didn't. Even so the sunset was beautiful and I'm glad I was there to experience it.

Photo: vic_kesse

Sunsets last only a few moments. I was fortunate to be able to capture this image and now am able to look a it and ponder it when ever I want.

Photo: vic_kesse

This picture was taken just after sunrise at Badwater Basin. The size of this basin is overwelming and deceptive. It is actually several miles to the mountains in the background. There were paths leading out into the basin. The salt crystals are very sharp and care must be taken if you walk off the main path.

Photo: vic_kesse

This is at a place called the Race Track in Death Valley. It takes about 2 1/2 hours to get to over a gravel road, but worth the drive. It is a fascinating place full of wonder at the unseen forces that cause the rocks to move in seemingly random paths along the floor of the dried lake bed.

Photo: vic_kesse

The varied colors of the bateria, the deep blue sky and the color of the water made this a captivating scene that demanded to be recorded.

Photo: Keith Jorgensen

For only fifteen minutes each sunny morning can one see the rainbow at the foot of the falls From Artist Point. I went on a photo safari and the guide took us here at the proper time,oherwise I would not have known about this.

Photo: Keith Jorgensen

We were so fortunate to see these grizzlies in the woods. The rangers on the site had everyone get back in their vehicles so the female could bring her cubs across the road. She decided to come out of the woods opposite our car and cross right in front of it.

Photo: Keith Jorgensen

I was completely surprised by the beauty of the Badlands. I did not expect the myriad of colors and the varied shapes of the landscape. The people in the photo give an idea of the area's vastness.

Photo: Keith Jorgensen

Capital Reef was an unexpected pleasure. We hiked 7 miles in this wash and never grew tired of what was around the next bend.

Photo: j.stone

There are no words to express the intensity of colors at Zion. I was in awe at every turn.

Photo: j.stone

We couldn't resist taking this picture of Double Arch in Arches National Park. The red rocks of the arch stood out so boldly against the bright, blue sky.

Photo: Cheryl Voronko

The color of the deposits around this hot springs pool in the West Thumb Geyser Basin offered an interesting subject. The blue color is the water of the pool itself.

Photo: furledleader

Soaking in the hot water from the Boiling River was one of the most relaxing experiences of our trip.

Photo: furledleader

Getting away from the main viewing area at Old Faithful offered this more impressive shot.

Photo: furledleader

The lake is really this blue! The color is always the same but the views along Rim Drive change magically as you drive along. We covered the entire drive in one afternoon with many photo stops. July 2009

Photo: chinana

I was assigned to the National Park's Tundra Wilderness Tour #1 for that day, leaving at 5:20 am. We were lucky to be able to do the 2 hour extension they do only if it is clear enough. This photo was taken at the farthest point we are able to go into Denali National Park.

Photo: hpeabody

It was a beautiful summer day. We boarded the Island Packers boat in Oxnard and made our way to Anacapa Island. We had been hiking for a couple hours on this very primitive island and then came upon this spectacular view.

Photo: hpeabody

Aptly named, the Grand Canyon is a mixture of outstanding beauty and wonderful colors.

Photo: Jan Shellenbarger

From far away, these openings into homes merely look like holes in the rocks.

Photo: Debra Stipe

Suggested by a friend to visit, Bandelier was an incredible find.

Photo: Debra Stipe

Their mother was nearby, busily eating the bushes. The cubs wre finished eating and playing. June, 2009

Photo: Peter Stipe

After climbing up this part of our hike, I turned around and was awe-struck by the majestic beauty of this canyon.

Photo: Gloria Sciolino

You just can't make up something this good.

Photo: EAhlgren

The most photographed lighthouse - our favorite way to see it is by boat. Whenever possible we take guests out to see it - they are never disappointed with the view!

Photo: jcasale

A beautiful day in the grnad Canyon. Admiring millions of years trapped in the horizon.

Photo: pitufina

One of my favorite spots to watch geology in action. This location changes on a daily basis!

Photo: gretchengebhardt

This is my favorite view and time of day to hike in Acadia, on this trip occurred at the height of a wonderful summer on Mount Desert Island with a great group of friends.

Photo: gretchengebhardt

I capture this image from sand beach hiking (great head trail) trail. Beautiful site to see... both pond and ocean in one shot.

Photo: rko

I wanted to try to show some perspective as to how hugely vast the Grand Canyon is. I was standing on the south rim looking west. It was late in June and hot and hazy in the distance. There are shrubs and trees growing on the side of the rim with huge outcroppings of rock. Looking into the distance, the canyon goes on for miles and miles. Amazing.

Photo: mellifluous

Enjoying the greatness of the Grand Canyon and feeling so small at the same time.

Photo: pitufina

Just about every year for the past 20 or so, my husband and I have spent a week on the North Carolina Outer Banks. A highlight of the trip is a visit to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, a tribute to the brothers who achieved the first successful airplane flights in 1903.

Photo: Monnie

I was about to hike a rim trail at canyonlands when I looked up. It just seemed a magical moment that vanished almost within seconds. I was pleased to have captured it.

Photo: patbean

I finally got a photo of the mountains. My daughter and I had been in the park for a few days, and we had seen the mountains in the morning, afternoon, sunset, from the east, north, and south - each time they were mostly obscured by the clouds. On our last chance on the morning of our departure, they came (mostly) out to see us off.

Photo: vsoscia

My daughter and I had just entered Yellowstone National Park for the first time. As we entered we were promptly greeted with a snow storm - it was the second week of June! We made our way to the canyon and then trekked to the bottom of the canyon viewing area, then there it was. Spectacular!

Photo: vsoscia

We were driving near Colter Bay and saw this deer grazing. We got out and took this picture with my wife so close you could hear him eating the grass.

Photo: Archie Eliason

We were driving out of Yellowstone NP and just entering GTNP and we saw this Grizzly in the woods.My wife got out and took several pictures, we were so close you could hear his breathing and grunting.He seemed to not even notice us!

Photo: Natalia Eliason

Redwood National Park is unique with it's redwood trees. When you are intimidated by the tall trees, you could always access the coast part of the park.

Photo: Victor Sutan

At freezing temperature that day, a bunch of us fighting our way through the fog around the rim of the Crater Lake. We finally caught a glimpse of the lake with the Wizard Island. It was well worth it.

Photo: Victor Sutan

The Navajo Loop Trail drops steeply in a series of switchbacks before entering a narrow gorge called Wall Street.

Photo: CarlB9090

The Belgian Pool was named to honor the memory of a newspaper editor from Belgium who died after falling into the pool in 1929.

Photo: CarlB9090

Bandelier National Park is a place where the sky feels enormous yet so close you feel like you can reach out and touch it. There's something very inspiring and spiritual about this land previously inhabited by Native Americans. This is a must see park for anybody visiting northern New Mexico. It's especially convenient to Los Alamos and Santa Fe.

Photo: aggiegirl

Taken at Paradise on Mt. Rainier. It is the nearest thing to Switzerland this side of the Atlantic!

Photo: chinana

Bear jam @ Sequoia noticed bear feeding on hillside. This was taken May 27,2009

Photo: IraENY

If you've ever climbed the Beehive at Acadia with kids, you'll know what the caption means.

Photo: Mike Champa

Driving through the Highland Terrace section of Mammoth Hot Springs, we found Orange Spring Mound with a perfect crown of clouds.

Photo: CarlB9090

I used a waterproof disposable camera to take this shot of our river rafting adventure through the Grand Canyon. It was spectacular!

Photo: travelwoman1

Looking down from the Prince of Wales Hotel, this view actually includes Canada and the United States. Amazing blue skies,and calm blue water.

Photo: Gerb

Inpired by a sign touting "the largest Spruce tree in the world", we took a detour off Route 101 onto Old State Highway 9 to see this magnificent giant. As we curved along the narrow two lane road, we stopped at Lake Quinalt Lodge to stretch our legs. Looking around, I promised myself that I would come back here to stay in this remote escape.

Photo: Kimberly Jozwiak

We were the only ones on on the trail near the Quileute tribe's Lonesome Creek Hatchery. The rainforest's canopy disappeared in the misty sunlight. All sounds of civilization were muffled by the abundant and lush vegetation. The lack of sound combined with the earthy smells and stunning beauty stilled my soul. I meditated on the earth's abundance and whispered thanks.

Photo: Kimberly Jozwiak

It was as if an entire forest was spewed onto the shoreline. As far as the eye could see, gigantic fallen trees lay resolute. We balanced along one log after another, seeing that little animals used these giants as their dwelling places. Nature in her vast wisdom renews, replenishes, and recycles.

Photo: Kimberly Jozwiak

As we traveled through Glacier on the "Road to the Sun", we took a quick hike to stretch our legs. As the sun started to set we began our return and couldn't help but notice the richness of color in the landscape. Our shadows created the perfect memory of our hike.

Photo: Gerb

Hoodoos of every shape, size and color pop up from the earth's floor. What's great about Bryce Canyon is that you don't even have to get out of your car to enjoy the magnificence of the landscape. Anyone who is physically challenged can still see the amazing beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park.

Photo: Nancy Stuart

A view of The Window from the Chisos Basin Stone Cottages. Even with the same view, so many different colors emerge, depending upon the time of day. Just goes to show how our lives are constantly changing though we may not always realize it.

Photo: Nancy Stuart

An amazing view, but they all are, in Big Bend National Park. This sunset view of The Window was taken from the Stone Cottages at Chisos Basin in Big Bend National Park.

Photo: Nancy Stuart

This was in June 2008,We were celebrating birthdays and had never been to the North Rim. We had just hiked some of the trails and this was just too good of a photo to pass up.

Photo: tucsontraveler

Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park is the highest point on the North Atlantic seaboard. From the top (roughly 1,532 feet), the view of Bar Harbor is nothing short of spectacular.

Photo: Monnie

The mountains form an inspirational backdrop to the altar inside the Chapel of the Transfiguration on Moose Wilson Road.

Photo: panecott

On our last day in YNP, we finally had the chance to see Grand Prismatic, the one site my 6-year-old had anticipated most. I was happy to capture this carefree moment as she “glided” along the boardwalk ahead of me around the hot spring.

Photo: Christina Collucci

Taken 6 August 2009. At the base of the tree is an adult beaver grooming himself while overlooking Horseshoe Lake.

Photo: Karen Bergmann

Taken on 4 August 2009. Rare clear view of summit.

Photo: Karen Bergmann

Taken 4 August 2009. Only 1% of visitors to the park ever see Mt McKinely fully in view, unobstructed. This was a lucky clear day.

Photo: Karen Bergmann

No one sees the Grand Canyon without being changed forever. It's just too awesome, too majestic, too vast. Every angle, every vista is without comparison and the journey is so universal. From all over the planet the visitors stare in wonder at this miraculous and unique beauty. We were no exception!

Photo: Susanwoosen

An eerie empty boardwalk in the Yellowstone Geyser Basin.

Photo: bildstl

In an effort to get away from the popularized boardwalk, I climbed the highest point near the Grand Prismatic Spring. This off-trail adventure led me to this unique view.

Photo: bildstl

My then-boyfriend (now husband) and I traveled to Bryce Canyon NP only to find it enveloped in fog. I'd been to Bryce Canyon before, but had never seen it this way. It's already an unusual place, but the fog really added to the drama of the park. While hiking we felt like we were walking on the moon.

Photo: Lisa Boice

Follow the Trail of Tilted Rocks to this wonderful spot where the Green River flows by Split Mountain. This was taken in very late fall.

Photo: hotzim

After exiting the 1/2 mile tunnel, this is the first full vista of the Valley with El Capitan on the left and Bridalvail Falls on the right.

Photo: surfdolfin

This was my first rest stop walking down into the canyon.

Photo: cyndyq

The black shadow, red rocks and white mountain balanced this view perfectly heading in to Arches.

Photo: Carrie Giddins

We were biking from Jackson Hole and I was certainly falling behind the group, as I stopped a lot to take pictures. This one framed itself. The farm house/ranch and the looming mountain on a warm summer day.

Photo: Carrie Giddins

A clearing summer day as we hiked around Jenny Lake. Looking back, the clouds began to clear and made the great pattern in the sky as they mimicked the snow on Teewinot.

Photo: Carrie Giddins

En route to Mt. Ranier, I spotted this beautiful view of the peak. You can imagine the beauty once we arrived and saw it in its complete majesty.

Photo: Susan Helmey

While traveling in California with our two granddaughters, we toured Yosemite and were awed by the beauty of the park. The ranger told us that he could see climbers on the side of El Capitan, but, as hard as we tried we couldn't see them. Can you?

Photo: Susan Helmey

After three days of rain the clouds parted for a brief moment to take this shot.

Photo: ChuckSpence

The clouds, sun, sky and shadows were spectacular.

Photo: mbrosen

Baby bear in a tree eating to get ready for winter.

Photo: hitman023

The boat ride to Hidden Falls was no longer operating in October, so I hiked the scenic trail along Jenny Lake to the falls, enjoying scenery like this along the way.

Photo: panecott

After clouds and snow flurries on the high elevations in Denali, the skies cleared as our park bus arrived at Wonder Lake and we were greeted with this lovely sight.

Photo: panecott

Summer heat along the Hoh River

Photo: Rita Bellanca

The rustic deck chairs on the back porch of Crater Lake Lodge are rarely empty. But there's always room to enjoy the view and the discussions when the twice daily Ranger's Choice talks are given.

Photo: Nancy A. Hann

A daisy entices you to step into the Hoh Rainforest

Photo: Rita Bellanca

Picturesque Ruby Beach

Photo: Rita Bellanca

The Beauty of a Swamp

Photo: Rita Bellanca

Hoh Rain Forest is one of the largest temperate rain forests in the United States. Annual precipitation averages about 12 to 14 feet! That explains the resulting moss covered telephone booth.

Photo: Nancy A. Hann

This was such a crisp outdoor shot with the sun shining on the canoes in the foreground and the mountains in the background.

Photo: Kelly Urban

The perfect symmetry of sky and water, the mountains towering in the background and the spring colors coming back to life make this one of my favorite shots.

Photo: Kelly Urban

Normally, this is one of the busiest trails in the park, but I only had to share it with a few elk at 7am.

Photo: David Boxer

Crossed over these falls while hiking Cascade Canyon trail to Lake Solitude in August, 2008. It captures the wild beauty of Grand Teton- I can still hear the wonderfully loud sound of the water rushing over the rocks. It is completely unique as even just seconds later the current, lighting, foliage, and scene can be different when photographing nature.

Photo: mdwahoo

On our first full day at Yellowstone, we were treated to a number of incredible wildlife sightings including this beautiful grizzly at the Lake.

Photo: sharondi

There was a herd of elk just grazing in the grass around the buildings at Mammoth Springs. When we drove back through an hour later, this one was curled up asleep!

Photo: funtravlr

Beautiful

Photo: bythecee521

The classic photo of Half Dome. One of the great things about Yosemite is that most of the big attractions can be seen without even getting out of your car! But, seeing the views from above are worth the work.

Photo: Kim Brolet

We decided to pass on driving the paved road going from Bryce Canyon to Lake Powell by taking the dirt road.I stopped on a ridge to soak in and take a photo of the sheer beauty and vast remoteness of Esclante National Park

Photo: tab hauser

Standing at the Upper Terraces in Mammoth Hot Springs while a thunderstorm is rolling towards us. An eerily, unearthly sight.

Photo: Brian Munari

While driving on a dirt road on the border of Zion National Park we saw these beautiful horses.When we stopped to observe them they just looked up and posed in this majestic back drop

Photo: tabhauser

The morning light was perfect when we came arcoss this magical field of flowers

Photo: Daniel McFadden

Taken on the hike to Fairy Falls, this is a great view of the colors of Grand Prismatic Springs.

Photo: Irongirl

Big Horn Sheep... He couldn't be shaken by the crowd gathered with their cameras.

Photo: Michael P. Kirk

Who's going to challenge his right-of- way... as he takes a seamingly leisurely stroll down the middle of the road without a care!

Photo: Michael P. Kirk

It was completely dark when we drove into the park in the middle of the night. We slept in our car in the parking lot for a few hours waiting for sunrise, drove around a bend, and were greeted with this vista. Needless to say, coffee was unnecessary that morning.

Photo: dkula

This looked like an ancient natural castle, the feeling was perpetuated by the eerie dusk glow and the full moon rising above the turrets. We ended up camping a quarter-mile off of this very location, set up to watch the stars alight the castle.

Photo: dkula

It was around 6:00 am and I was driving through the Moose region in the Tetons. Exhausted and confused as to why I was waking up so early on vacation I then saw this little guy in a marsh. The air was crisp and biting and he was so tranquil, it made my day.

Photo: KristinaZ

My family and I were caught in almost an hours worth of traffic leaving Yellowstone. Exiting the lower loop through Hayden Valley, herds of Bison were stopping crazy amounts of tourists! Frustrated from all the people and the traffic I looked to my left and realized I had forgotten where I was. Everything was so gentle and peaceful. The river slides its way through the valley and the calm water and reflections of the trees and the clouds made me realize how beautiful and serene nature really is. The people, the noise, it didn't matter. The scenery calmed the New Yorker in me and the traffic was no longer a concern.

Photo: KristinaZ

Captivating shoreline that could be watched endlessly

Photo: Judy Weiss

The fog rolled in so quickly and everything was still.

Photo: Judy Weiss

Zion as shot from The Angel's Landing Trail.

Photo: John Vaccarelli

Hiking through the Virgin River in Zion NP.

Photo: John Vaccarelli

The Saguaro National Park namesake cactus is what makes the park so special. It's like each one is just waiting to be photographed and has a natural story to tell. I found myself naming some of the more memorable groupings. In this family portrait, Mom and Dad pose for the camera while Junior plays in the foreground. Saguaro National Park simply captures the imagination at every turn.

Photo: Jennifer Petoff

The ocotillo also dotted the landscape in Saguaro National Park. The brittle spikes are deceptive. When it rains, the ocotillo sprouts small lush leaves and demonstrates how life can thrive by being opportunistic in a harsh desert environment.

Photo: Jennifer Petoff

A curator at the Desert Museum told me that the fruit of the barrel cactus was not only edible but was actually tasty. I had to give it a try. We were hiking in the Saguaro National Park on a cold December day when I spied a prime specimen laden with yellow fruit. It was full of seeds but did indeed taste yummy -- a bit like kiwi.

Photo: Jennifer Petoff

The insignificant size of a man, silouetted on the right, only begins to hint at the vastness of the Grand Canyon. The storm, far off in the distance, adds to the awesome beauty nature provides us.

Photo: Lisa Hamel

Friendly squirrel posed for us right after greeting us at the Grand Canyon

Photo: Lisa Hamel

Going along the Glacier point trail, I happened to walk by my husband loving his moment, his experience. It was candid, made it all the more special

Photo: mardi2gras debra becker

This picture was taken in the early winter morning after a night of camping. I rose early to the sound of a coyote rubbing against my tent. At this point I decided to take a brisk morning walk in the near freezing weather when I stumbled upon this awesome scenery. This picture happened at the perfect time while the fog was still lingering in the air just enough to hide the road in front of me. This summed up my extraordinary stay within the great confines of the beautiful and majestic scenery of Arches National Park. I will be sharing this story for years to come.

Photo: mvt785

We went to Yosemite for my birthday but didn't expect to see snow. On my birthday (April 4), we woke up to a steady fluffy snowfall and decided to walk to the falls. It was worth it.

Photo: James Dikel

Astounding foliage color may be found along nearly every hiking trail in the Fall.

Photo: Erin S. Contour

The minerals / extreme temperatures found in the geyser basins are a severe natural environment, but in that very severity you find beauty.

Photo: Erin S. Contour

Bike trail on the edge of Arches National Park close to Moab. Truly one of the best off road bike routes in the world. Views across to the national park and 12 miles of downhill fun.

Photo: Anthony B

As if the "Sequoiadendron giganteum" were not gigantic enough, here are three of them growing together.

Photo: lvk

It was a hot day at our Palm Desert hotel, but a cool, windy day in Joshua Tree. It was cooler still, in the San Jacinto Mountains beyond.

Photo: lvk

While hiking in RMNP we spotted this guy keeping a check on our progress. The bighorn sheep were wary but actually would get quite close to hikers.

Photo: jim7577

Trails through RMNP criss cross many streams. This picture shows the pristine qualities of the park.

Photo: jim7577

Photo: alfwilde

You leave Many Glacier Lodge on the way to hike with this beautiful, magestic sight in front of you.

Photo: alfwilde

MacDonald Lake

Photo: Andrew Mirhej

Ubehebe is a volcanic crater which carries some of the strongest winds I have ever experienced. Those winds helped relieve the 115 degree heat.

Photo: Margaret Walton

Zabriskie Point captures all of the beauty of a desert landscape. I love the colorful, nearly vertical layers of sediment which depict the turbulent geological history of the region.

Photo: Margaret Walton

More of the flow.

Photo: John Sellier

I love this area of the country, so much to see in such a small area.

Photo: John Sellier

seconds before the sun dissapears. Stunning.

Photo: John Sellier

Drove back the next day just to see the sun setting on this beautiful canyon. I've been to this area several times since I was a child but never got to see it at sunset.

Photo: John Sellier

Watching a stormy sunset on the Southern Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Photo: Steve Lewis

At the Glacier Point overlooking the Yosemite Valley at Sunset.

Photo: Steve Lewis

About an hour into this two hour hike to the top of Vernal Falls, standing on a large rock in the middle of the Merced River.

Photo: Steve Lewis

Shades of reds appear as pinks to crimsons as the sun hits during the day.

Photo: WendyVH

When landing on a glacier everything seems so vast and you seem so small. The glaciers are huge and beautiful

Photo: destrothers

These seals were not bothered by anything and just wanted to pose for us on a nice August afternoon.

Photo: destrothers

Stark beauty captured in August 2008 on vacation with the family.

Photo: Rita Waldron

Perfect weather for Thanksgiving weekend !

Photo: Rita Waldron

Although Fairmount Park is not considered a National Park, the eclectic veiws over it's 9,200 historic acres in the heart of Urban Philadelphia are worth mentioning.

Photo: Michael Riccobono

I got up one spring morning before sunrise and ventured into the park. I was able to capture this photograph just as the sun was coming up over the horizon to the east.

Photo: Patty Reiser

Hiking through the Virgin River at the Narrows is one of the most memorable hikes I've taken

Photo: Brianna Simmons

The colors of the canyon at sunrise are truly worth getting up early for.

Photo: Brianna Simmons

There is nothing like seeing a glacier calve!

Photo: Brianna Simmons

Just one of the many stunning views to be had on a Glacier/wildlife cruise at Kenai Fjords NP

Photo: Brianna Simmons

Is it far for the overlook??

Photo: monpetit

Beauty and the beast

Photo: monpetit

Thunderstorm's evening is coming

Photo: monpetit

Nice contrast between colored springs, heat, smoke and the cloudy sky with a cold temperature

Photo: monpetit

A nice eruption of this geyser with a blue poll around, but no way to swimm.

Photo: monpetit