Why Creating Rock Cairns is Dangerous and Wildly Illegal

Amplified by the social media trend of making and photographing these little towers, the prevalence of man-made rock cairns has reached an all-time high. But the illegal practice poses serious dangers to the surrounding environment.

A rock cairn. CanyonlandsNPS. CC PDM 1.0.

Trending on social media platforms like Instagram, “rock stacking” has become the latest nature fad. Seen as a challenge, those making their way through nature—whether it be at a park, a beach, a pond or elsewhere—have created a habit of creating these cairns or adding to pre-existing ones. People have even linked this habit to spirituality and luck, saying the higher the stack grows, the more luck a person has if they have added to the pile and that the practice grants them inner balance. But what might seem like a harmless human hobby is anything but that. With a plethora of environmental impacts, the ever-increasing number of rock cairns in our natural environment threatens the structure of multiple ecosystems, while also posing threats to the very humans who created them.

After the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States, outdoor activities that accommodated for safe social distancing became a popular way to get out of the house. The Guardian reports that the National Parks Conservation Association noted a 20% increase in visitation at all national parks locations. With this uptake in visitation came the human impact on the land. Being uneducated in policies such as Leave No Trace (a principle that emphasizes the importance of humans to make as minimal an impact on nature as possible) and a severe lack of outdoor etiquette was instrumental in the rise in rock cairns. 

Grand Canyon National Park visitors. Grand Canyon NPS. CC BY 2.0.

The environmental effects of rock cairns are the most threatening of the practice. Cairns made by water sources are among the worst, due to their impact on the surrounding food chain and ecosystems. Rocks disturbed by the side of a river, the edge of a pond, or even a lake, have devastating consequences on the animals that live there. Taking rocks from those areas, people dishevel the homes of macroinvertebrates, which are at the very basis of practically all freshwater food chains in the world. These little creatures provide a list of very important services, including keeping the water they inhabit clean by scavenging dead fish, plants and harmful bacteria, making them nutritious sources of food for animals in the area. 

Without macroinvertebrates, our freshwater systems would not be able to self regulate, and the food chain—and ecosystems involved—would essentially crumble. By taking rocks from freshwater areas, people are stealing homes from these crucial creatures and inherently ruining entire ecosystems just to stack a few rocks. Additionally, other freshwater creatures feel the direct loss of habitat that the macroinvertebrates experience. Crayfish, algae, insect larvae and snails all lose homes to these cairns, all endangering these animals. Finally, the same threats that freshwater ecosystems face due to rock stacking can be seen in land environments. Reptiles, bugs and small mammals lose their natural habitats and plants are uprooted and disturbed.

Rock stack by a river. Angela7dreams. CC BY-NC 2.0.

In addition, rock cairns also pose threats to humans. Known to cause soil erosion, if rocks are being taken from the wrong places, large chunks of earth can become loose, leading to rock and mudslides. Further, large cairns, commonly found on mountain peaks and summits, have been known to fall over hillsides and hit hikers below. 

The dangers of these cairns have made them illegal to make, unless done professionally by a park ranger. The penalties for making these cairns are equivalent to those for vandalism. Dubbed “rock graffiti,'' cairns are considered malicious mischief and warrant hefty fines that vary depending on location, and in some instances, rock stacking is punishable by jail time. Sometimes, when there is no other way to mark a trail path, rangers will make these cairns, having been trained to do so without disturbing the environment. However, those who make them for fun have been said to lead people the wrong way on hikes or walks. Because of the uptake in rescues, and all the other factors listed above, this practice of stacking rocks has been prohibited in national parks.

To Get Involved

If you ever come across a rock cairn, the National Parks Service (NPS) advises you to leave them be. The NPS asks that people do not disturb pre-existing cairns, do not add to them and especially refrain from building them. To read more about rock cairns from the NPS, click here.

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Ava Mamary

Ava is an undergraduate student at the University of Illinois, double majoring in English and Communications. At school, she Web Writes about music for a student-run radio station. She is also an avid backpacker, which is where her passion for travel and the outdoors comes from. She is very passionate about social justice issues, specifically those involving women’s rights, and is excited to write content about social action across the globe. 

Mass Killings of the Gray Wolf near Yellowstone

With the 150th anniversary of Yellowstone, attention is drawn to the mass killings of the gray wolf. The park’s bordering states have no laws to protect this species, as the wolves reach a record low number. 

Gray wolf traveling. Yellowstone National Park. CC BY-SA 2.0.

March 1 marked the 150 years of Yellowstone National Park’s existence. However, a sad reality emerges regarding the hunting and killing of wolves. Although this event should be a time of commemoration for the park, an impending issue may finally be getting the necessary public attention. 

While hunting is illegal within Yellowstone, the boundaries of the park line states like Montana, Idaho and Wyoming, which offer no protection to what crosses into their private territory. As a result, the highest number of gray wolf killings has occurred within a century this season alone, which is less than halfway over. 

There are several reasons why this attack on the gray wolf has been escalating. In 2020, the Trump Administration abolished protection of the gray wolf species, meaning that they no longer receive protection as an endangered species. Two years later, though, the federal court worked to reinstate protection for the wolves. Although this preservation was successful in some states, those bordering Yellowstone were excused from this active protection. As a result, hunters in Montana, Idaho and Wyoming have brought the total population down to just 90 wolves. 

Although there are strict hunting rules within Yellowstone, they now hold little value due to the ways in which these bordering states support the war on wolves. These mass killings are not only exponentially growing for the first time in a century, but pose extreme risks for the balance of the ecosystem. The gray wolf plays a key role in the ecosystem, which further affects the physical environment the park is surrounded with, as well as the stability of other organisms. 

For example, the diminishing number of wolves negatively impacts the ecosystem as the species feeds on deer and elk populations, keeping them at a healthy population. When wolves eat deer or elk, they also leave their carcasses scattered which provides nutrients for other members of the system. Aside from the gray wolf affecting other species, they have large impacts on trees, plants and the physical environment at large. With the absence of the gray wolf working as predators, an abundance of elk would feed on different types of trees, which further translates into the stagnation of the species. 

The issue is growing rapidly, as the entire Phantom Lake Pack has been slaughtered due to the lack of protection. New laws in Idaho encourage these killings; the governor of Montana is an active hunter himself who recently trapped and killed a wolf without following protocol. As these states fail to protect the important wildlife that walks into their territory, it is increasingly concerning why there is little to no federal concern on this issue. 

Those who demand change are former members of the Fish and Wildlife Commission, who have seemingly followed the journey of the gray wolf, watching them go from full protection to total vulnerability. Although gray wolf deaths reach dangerous numbers, the problem is seemingly insular to the park itself, only being made known to the outside when action is demanded. When there is no personal connection between the park and the outside influences that have ability to make a change, protection is only considered when irreversible ecological damage to the park is noticed. Whether the federal government and commission chooses to protect the gray wolves or not is ultimately determined by their care for the environment, economics and the ecological community.  

GET INVOLVED

Citizens can put active pressure on the federal government and commission to keep the Endangered Species Act protections for gray wolves in 48 states throughout the Biden Administration. This pressure would also help the wolves have protection under federal law, rather than leaving responsibility to the surrounding states. 

Here, you can sign a petition to Secretary Haaland to promote this protection of wolves.

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Talia Rueda

Talia is an English major and Marketing minor at Providence College. She works as a Staff Writer and Social Media Coordinator for their student-led newspaper, The Cowl. She is a lover of all things entertainment media and is happy to now grow her experience in writing about social action and travel. In the future, she hopes to work for a major entertainment magazine to continue the conversation about growing trends and popular culture.

Zimbabwe’s Mining Ban: A Potential Empty Promise?

The government of Zimbabwe now bans mining in its national parks, but environmentalists argue that the prohibition is hardly adequate. 

An elephant at a watering hole in Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park. BARMCD. CC BY-NC 2.0.

After mounting pressure from conservationists, Zimbabwe’s government has declared a mining ban in the country’s national parks. Reports have circulated that Chinese companies are scouting out coal mining sites in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest national reserve. The park stretches over nearly 6,000 square miles and is home to about 50,000 of Zimbabwe’s estimated 86,000 elephants. Extensive conservation projects are conducted in the region to preserve its plethora of wildlife species, but the call to protect the elephant population has drawn the most intense focus.

The government’s new ban is the result of a case brought to the country’s High Court by the Zimbabwe Environmental Lawyers Association. The group argues that mining would destabilize the park’s biodiversity while injuring the fragile ecotourism sector. This case was first brought to the High Court after officials of Afrochine Energy and Zimbabwe Zhongxin Coal Mining Group were arrested for conducting illegal mining projects only to be released with special permission by Zimbabwe’s President. Outrage immediately ensued, and conservationists rode the wave of anger to action. 

The immense pressure on the government to implement change follows months of anger by environmentalists claiming that Chinese mining companies have already caused catastrophic damage in other regions of Zimbabwe. Environmentalists explain that the companies dump toxic waste, clogging precious dams and resulting in substantial drops in local wildlife populations. Locals also resent the presence of Chinese mining companies due to diminishing livestock populations and disrupted irrigation routes. 

Environmental groups also argue that mining will perpetuate the drought and overcrowding problems that have already killed hundreds of elephants. Local residents deal with regular poaching disputes and rely heavily on income from ecotourism; so, many fear that failure to hold off Chinese mining companies could cause  economic damage and increased levels of conflict. Furthermore, many Zimbabweans believe that mining in Hwange is only one piece of the bigger picture. Gold and diamond mining sites pepper other parts of the nation, causing equal degrees of environmental destruction to the over 1,000 species of animals that roam the country.

Tusks removed from a poached elephant. Sokwanele. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

For now, it seems that the government of Zimbabwe has yielded to the demands of conservation groups, but environmentalists appear far from satisfied. The government says that it is canceling current mining titles, but conservationists are doubtful that this is enough. Shamiso Mtisi, deputy director of the Zimbabwe Environmental Lawyers Association, states that the group is demanding an interdict, which is a legally binding prohibition. Pressure on the government to act quickly increased significantly in the past week as 11 young elephants died due to an unknown bacterial infection. Investigations are now proceeding to determine the cause of the elephants’ deaths, and whether poisoning may be linked to nearby mining activity. 

Although the High Court’s verdict is already known, but whether or not Zimbabwe’s government will take the necessary steps to save the country’s natural and economic resources remains a mystery.

Ella Nguyen

is an undergraduate student at Vassar College pursuing a degree in Hispanic Studies. She wants to assist in the field of immigration law and hopes to utilize Spanish in her future projects. In her free time she enjoys cooking, writing poetry, and learning about cosmetics.

10 Travel Destinations Paving the Way in Sustainability

According to the United Nations, the global community must take drastic measures to alleviate the climate crisis. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, composed of nearly 1,300 scientists, predicts that global warming could increase worldwide temperatures up to 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit by 2040. This temperature rise will almost certainly exacerbate food insecurity, disease transmission, sea level rise and loss of ecosystems. From 2009 to 2013, international travel alone accounted for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Roughly 1.4 billion people travel to a new destination each year, indirectly contributing to air pollution, land degradation and strained resources. These current levels of travel threaten the Paris Agreement, which proposes an annual 7.6% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. Many countries have recognized the importance of environmental management and have striven for sustainability. From Malta to Japan, travel destinations are implementing eco-friendly practices, such as renewable energy and wildlife conservation. Travelers to these locations can explore pristine environments while positively impacting the planet. 

1. Gozo, Malta

The coastline of Gozo, Malta. Zoltan Tasi. Unsplash.

Located in the Mediterranean Sea, the island of Gozo boasts a rich historical identity. Recognized by UNESCO, the Ggantija Temples are the world’s oldest free-standing structures, predating Stonehenge and the pyramids of Egypt. In addition to these historical sites, the island is relatively undeveloped, offering scenic hills and untouched coastlines. The European Environment Agency regularly monitors urban waste and pollution in coastal areas. According to their assessment, Maltese beaches rank among the cleanest in Europe. Within this pristine environment, common activities include swimming, snorkeling, deep-sea diving and kayaking. Gozo also hosts 85 endemic species of flora and fauna. To protect and preserve this unique landscape, the Ministry for Gozo established the Eco-Gozo Regional Development Directorate in 2009. Over the past decade, the island has become a model for sustainable development. Through renewable energy, green transportation and plastic reduction, Gozo is committed to reducing its carbon and water footprints. Ecologists have established protected spaces for endangered species, while local craftsmen sustainably restore ancient ruins like the Ggantija Temples. To further improve the standard of living in the Gozitan community, the island implements eco-education programs in schools and offers locally sourced, organic ingredients in restaurants. Named the Mediterranean’s Best Green Destination in 2018, this small island continues to gain recognition for its innovative conservation efforts.   

2. Ljubljana, Slovenia

The Ljubljanica River, a pure water source in central Slovenia. Pedro Szekely. CC BY-SA 2.0

Known as “Slovenia’s Green City,” Ljubljana is the first European capital to establish a “zero-waste” initiative. The city currently recycles nearly 70% of its waste, reducing landfill trash to a mere 5%. Residual waste is processed into recyclable materials, solid fuels and high-quality gardening compost. Public green spaces, which include thousands of trees, comprise a third of the city’s territory and absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Visitors to Ljubljana can explore a variety of hiking trails, as well as an urban bee path that cares for 4,500 beehives. The city draws from the Ljubljanica River, which provides natural, non-processed drinking water and eliminates the need for plastic bottles. Since 2007, the historic city center has banned car traffic, allowing only bikes, pedestrians and electric trains. With fewer cars, the integrity of cultural and historical landmarks, like Preseren Square and Cobblers' Bridge, will be preserved for generations. In 2016, Ljubljana was deemed the “European Green Capital” and it plans to be zero-waste by 2035.

3. Azores, Portugal

The rugged cliffs of the Azores Islands in Portugal. Yves Alarie. Unsplash.

With nine volcanic islands, the archipelago of the Azores has diverse geological significance. The islands’ landscapes are dominated by craters, lagoons, waterfalls and lava fields. Visitors can hike among dense coastal forests, relax in natural hot springs and journey through dormant volcanoes. Azorean wildlife is varied and includes whales, dolphins, seals, bats and hedgehogs. However, rising sea temperatures spurred by climate change have driven aquatic species, such as the North Atlantic right whale, to near extinction. To protect the islands’ biodiversity, the Azores Islands harbor more than 60 marine protected areas which serve as sanctuaries for endangered species. Rather than burning fossil fuels, the Azores utilize geothermal power plants to harvest renewable energy from the earth’s subsurface. Geothermal power currently provides around 50% of the islands’ energy needs. Due to these sustainable developments, the Azores ranked among the world’s top 100 sustainable destinations in 2019. 

4. Iwokrama Forest, Guyana 

The dense foliage of the Iwokrama Forest. Kunal Shinde. Unsplash.

Named “The Green Heart of Guyana,” the Iwokrama Forest is one of the last pristine tropical forests in the world. For decades, global timber industries have exploited these natural ecosystems through deforestation, generating 18% of all greenhouse gas emissions. While tropical forests only occupy 7% of the Earth’s surface, they capture and store carbon naturally, with Iwokrama capturing over 1.4 million tons of carbon dioxide annually. In order to mitigate the loss of vital vegetation, Iwokrama employs a polycyclic harvesting system, resulting in the removal of less stems per acre and no significant gaps in the forest canopy. The Forest Stewardship Council has commended these forest management practices, which prioritize locals, wildlife and the natural environment. Amid lush forests, wetlands and savannas, visitors might encounter diverse wildlife such as jaguars, giant anteaters, black caimans and harpy eagles. While traversing the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway, a 500-foot series of suspension bridges, travelers can examine nearly 6,500 species of plants. In 2016, Guyana’s Environmental Protection Agency awarded the Iwokrama Forest with the Green Award for its exemplary environmental stewardship.  

5. Galapagos National Park, Ecuador

A Galapagos sea turtle swimming off the coast. Wexor Tmg. Unsplash.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galapagos National Park and surrounding waters are protected for conservation. The 19 islands boast distinct landscapes, ranging from barren volcanic rocks to green sand beaches formed by olivine crystals. The Galapagos are home to a variety of endemic species, including 15 mammals, 45 bird species and 79 types of fish. Due to wildlife sanctuaries and habitat restorations, vulnerable animals like tortoises, iguanas and sea lions live in harmony with humans. The Galapagos Islands also have a rich variety of endemic flora, with over 500 species discovered. When visiting the Galapagos, visitors are expected to act responsibly and treat the environment with respect. Common activities include snorkeling alongside sea turtles, hiking over dried lava beds and whale watching from kayaks. The Galapagos National Park is well maintained and protected by park rangers and volunteers, who partake in regular coastal cleanups. However, to ensure long-term sustainability, the islands offer outreach and education programs. Ecologists and environmental experts teach locals and visitors about the harmful effects of climate change and pollution in the hopes that this diverse landscape will endure for years to come. 

6. Felicite Island, Seychelles 

Felicite Island in the early morning. Nenad Radojčić. Unsplash.

Located in the Indian Ocean, Felicite Island contains parts of Ramos National Park and multiple marine protected areas. This small island community has multiple initiatives to conserve energy and invites visitors to share the responsibility of offsetting their carbon footprint. Drip irrigation has been introduced as a solution to water and energy waste. Widespread rainwater harvesting allows the use of rainwater for non-potable needs, such as washing clothes and watering gardens. Organic vegetable gardens support the ultimate aim of self-sustained food and beverages in the Seychelles. Special efforts are given to waste reduction, with zero-waste and plastic-free initiatives. Recently, island officials banned plastic bags, plates, cups and plastic foam boxes in order to mitigate ocean pollution. Additional conservation programs include a reforestation project, sea turtle monitoring and coral restoration. Within this pristine paradise, visitors can partake in snorkeling, diving and community outreach programs regarding climate change. 

7. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Elephants, an endangered species, graze the Serengeti. Hu Chen. Unsplash.

Founded in 1951, Serengeti National Park houses one the highest concentrations of mammals in Africa, with species such as lions, giraffes and hippos. It is also known for the largest remaining unaltered animal migration in the world, with over 6 million zebras, gazelles and wildebeests stampeding over the fertile plains. At least four globally threatened or endangered species, such as elephants and cheetahs, thrive in these heavily-patrolled conservation areas. Guided safaris allow visitors to witness this diverse wildlife from a close proximity. Serengeti, however, is committed to sustainable visitation in order to protect the environment from irreversible damage. Human activity and waste disposal are closely monitored by park rangers. Conservation areas and secure breeding grounds also mitigate the impacts of deforestation, poaching and urbanization. Through such practices, Serengeti National Park allows wildlife to roam freely in their natural habitat, an increasingly rare commodity. 

8. Republic of Palau

Coral reefs, an endangered ecosystem. Qui Nguyen. Unsplash.

Located in the western Pacific Ocean, the Republic of Palau includes over 200 volcanic and coral islands. Palau supports a diverse aquatic environment, inhabited by nearly 700 coral species and 1,400 fish species. Coral reefs protect coastlines from waves, provide wildlife with refuge and offer opportunities for recreation. Due to climate change, this vital ecosystem is severely threatened. The Coral Reef Research Foundation promotes water conservation, renewable energy and recycling to mitigate coral destruction. In 2018, Palau banned sunscreens that contain environmental pollutants and established marine sanctuaries in 80% of its territorial waters. Travelers to Palau must sign a pledge declaring that they will preserve and protect the island. While scuba diving, snorkeling and surfing, visitors must adhere to this pledge and respect wildlife. 

9. Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan

Sun Moon Lake at sunset. Eddy Tsai. CC BY-SA 2.0

Residing in the foothills of Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range, Sun Moon Lake prides itself on maintaining a low carbon footprint. Public transportation routes have decreased the reliance on driving, thereby reducing the emission of greenhouse gases. Cable car systems, electric boats and cycling paths are common alternatives to cars at Sun Moon Lake. This rural region also hosts a range of dams which generate 62% of Taiwan's total hydroelectricity. Travelers to Sun Moon Lake can hike through dense forests, kayak in turquoise waters and interact with Indigenous people who live in the area. Thao natives, such as the Bunun, believe humans and Earth are intrinsically connected, opting to practice sustainable farming and fishing. Sun Moon Lake adheres to this philosophy and strives to protect the fragile environment. 

10. Kamaishi, Japan 

A traditional Japanese torii. Tianshu Liu. Unsplash.

Along the rugged Sanriku Coast, Kamaishi is an important fishing and industrial city. In 2011, a 45-foot tsunami swept through the city, devastating the local fishing industry and taking the lives of roughly 1,000 people. Amid ongoing reconstruction efforts, Kamaishi is prioritizing sustainability. Established two years after the tsunami, the Sanriku Fukko National Park consists of towering cliffs, unique stone formations and isolated coastlines. The Jodogahama and Kirikiri beaches, surrounded by vibrant green pine trees, host diverse marine ecosystems. Salmon, scallops, crabs and sea urchins are among the many aquatic animals that receive protections from overfishing. Through coastal cleanups, inland forestry conservation and river purification, Kamaishi strives to reduce the impact of industrial pollution. Forms of public transportation, such as electric trains and ride-shares, further mitigate car traffic and fossil fuels. Kamaishi is also a leader in renewable energy, relying on solar power and biomass fuel to power residential areas. Environmental organizations have commended Kamaishi for rebuilding a cleaner community in the wake of such a devastating natural disaster.

Shannon Moran

is a Journalism major at the University of Georgia, minoring in English and Spanish. As a fluent Spanish speaker, she is passionate about languages, cultural immersion, and human rights activism. She has visited seven countries and thirty states and hopes to continue traveling the world in pursuit of compelling stories.

National Parks Begin to Reopen, With Limits

National parks are popular travel destinations, and with COVID-19 still present, the distancing quality of being in a park holds appeal for many wishing to escape the confines of the quarantine. According to one survey, 24% of Americans planning on road-tripping this summer have national parks on their mind. The 52 million acres of national park space have not opened up to their full capacity, however, and lots of programming across the nation has been cut in order to discourage large gatherings. Some of the more dangerous trails are closed as well due to fear of contamination from visitors who might hold onto safety chains or railings. Many transportation options have been cut, a choice that makes the inner, unpaved portions of the parks less accessible. Each park is undergoing reopening phases at their own pace, the speed mostly a reflection of what the local government is permitting and the status of COVID-19 in the area. The National Park Service has publicly urged visitors to abide by social distancing guidelines to help prevent the spread of the virus and protect park employees. Many of these parks are located in rural areas that lack extensive hospital care, so an uptick in COVID-19 cases could have devastating effects. 

Yellowstone National Park - Wyoming

A hot spring in Yellowstone National Park. Aidan B. Unsplash.

Yellowstone National Park is the world’s first national park and a destination for millions of tourists each year. Accordingly, the park typically offers a wide assortment of attractions including an abundance of flora and fauna, 12 campgrounds, and nine visitor centers. Perhaps its most well-known assets are the Old Faithful geyser and the park’s numerous hot springs. Yellowstone reevaluated its spring opening dates after the initial COVID-19 outbreak, pushing its first major phase of reopening from a typical mid-April date to May 18. The park had been closed since March 24 and is now directing visitors toward a few specific entrances as well as limiting them to certain areas (the lower loop) of the park. Additional constraints include the unavailability of overnight accommodations including hotels and campgrounds, the banning of commercial tour buses, and closed ranger programs and visitor centers. As the park progresses into reopening phases 2 and 3, some of these restrictions are expected to loosen, such as the opening of some overnight rooms, takeaway at some on-site restaurants, and select campgrounds. While some of the regulations are done as a response to multiple state guidelines (Yellowstone spills into Montana and Idaho), a Yellowstone website states that “The park’s reopening priorities center on protecting employees and the public from transmission risks through a variety of mitigation actions.” 

Arches National Park - Utah

Delicate Arch, one of the top sites at Arches National Park. Holger Link. Unsplash.

Arches National Park, located on the eastern side of Utah near the city of Moab, is home to the famous stone marvel known as the Delicate Arch. The park also has numerous hiking opportunities, additional stone icons, and scenic drives. Although the park was closed for many weeks after the virus broke out, Arches resumed entrance fee collection (seven-day passes ranging from $15 to $30) on June 15 as part of a multiphased reopening process. While the Arches Visitor Center, Devils Garden Campground and Fiery Furnace remain closed, the roads, trails and park store are now permitting visitors. One major concern for those running the park is the congregation of visitors around popular landmarks like the Delicate Arch. Although the park has not issued any explicit policies banning congregations of visitors around hot spots like the arch, the National Park Service is following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The park has stated that it is actively monitoring visitors and encouraging them to wear masks and social distance in addition to following the park’s standard Leave No Trace principles.

Joshua Tree National Park - Southern California

A snapshot of some yucca trees in Joshua Tree National Park. Fum Bally. Unsplash.

Joshua Tree has two distinct deserts (the Mojave and Sonoran) and is known for its iconic giant yucca trees. This rocky 794,000-acre park, located in Southern California, receives 2.8 million visitors during a typical year. Like many other national parks, Joshua Tree is undergoing a multiphased reopening plan that began in late May. Despite some modifications, Joshua Tree has listed many open amenities on their website, including entrance booths, trails, family campsites, visitor centers and group campsites (25 person limit). The park is not running any programs this year. 

Redwood National Park - Northern California 

Some impressive redwood trees in Redwood National Park. James Lee. Unsplash.

Redwood National Park is named for the giant redwood trees throughout the area, the tallest of which is recorded to be over 379 feet tall. Most of the park is free and almost half a million visitors come to enjoy its beauty each year. In a state with nine  national parks, this one is a standout. All five visitor centers are currently closed at Redwood National Park, as are some roads and parking lots. The park is not holding any on-site events or outdoor school programs, instead requesting that everyone spread out while visiting. The park asks that everyone be prepared to take home their trash as well. Nevertheless, visitors can still enjoy most of the campgrounds, trails and a number of scenic drives. 

Acadia National Park - Maine

A lake view at Acadia National Park. Michael Loftus. Unsplash.

Acadia is located along coastal Maine and is in close proximity to a number of quaint restaurants, museums and hotels. Visitors can take scenic drives, investigate numerous lakes and wooded areas, and take boats out on the water. There is even a portion of the park that is accessible mainly by ferry. Acadia, like many other parks, is currently undergoing a multiphased reopening plan. While most hiking trails and retail services are open, campgrounds are not. If visitors are feeling down about being unable to camp overnight, they can still have a memorable experience and go for a horse-drawn carriage ride instead. 

Valley Forge National Historical Park - Pennsylvania

The sun rises over Valley Forge National Historical Park. Thomas James Caldwell. CC BY-SA 2.0

Valley Forge is rich with history and greenery as it is the location where Gen. George Washington kept the Continental Army for six months in 1777 and 1778. During a typical year, visitors participate in a number of recreational activities such as trolley tours, visiting Washington’s headquarters, and investigating the Muhlenberg Brigade Huts. As the park undergoes a slow reopening process, these buildings and facilities, including visitor centers, have remained closed. Some parking lots, roads and trails are open, however, and visitors are encouraged to take their trash with them in addition to practicing social distancing. Programs and events have not been officially canceled and are just postponed. 

Big Bend National Park - Texas

A view of the Rio Grande in Big Bend National Park. Kyle Glenn. Unsplash.

Big Bend National Park is situated in West Texas and covers over 800,000 acres of land. Named after the U-turn in the Rio Grande, this national park has a range of terrain including desert, mountains and rivers. The park does not receive many visitors - only about 350,000 per year - but it does have an excess of heat, with temperatures passing 100 degrees Fahrenheit before noon in the summertime. The park is fairly open, including day hike trails and rafting on the Rio Grande. The visitor centers and some stores are closed, as are the more “primitive roadside” campsites for backpackers. Camping and lodging are at limited capacity but expect a greater degree of reopening in the near future.

Phoebe Jacoby

is a Media Studies major and Studio Art minor at Vassar College who believes in the importance of sharing stories with others. Phoebe likes to spend her free time reading, drawing, and writing letters. She hopes to continue developing her skills as a writer and create work that will have a positive outward effect.

RV There Yet? 8 Great RV Adventures for a Socially Distanced Summer

As COVID-19 changes the way we can travel or feel comfortable traveling, people are considering renting RVs to take on road trips as an alternative summer adventure. State parks and campgrounds are beginning to reopen across the U.S., but have restrictions in place in order to balance public safety with the enjoyment of being outdoors. Some major national parks like Death Valley do not yet have plans to reopen for the summer. For the parks that do open, it is inevitable that the limited spaces will fill up quickly, so you might want to plan to visit less popular scenic destinations. And with many visitor centers and hotels remaining closed, renting an RV might be the best way to have a safe, fun summer. Be sure to check local regulations often as closures and travel restrictions change quickly.

A beautiful sunset over Sebago Lake in Maine. Paul VanDerWerf. CC BY 2.0.

New England – Sebago Lake, Maine

Nestled in southern Maine is the deepest and second largest lake in the state—Sebago Lake. Visitors can fish for Atlantic salmon, lake trout and large and smallmouth bass, among others. Locals advise anglers to use live or realistic bait when fishing because of Sebago Lake’s crystal-clear water. Visitors interested in swimming can head to any of the many sandy beaches on the shores of the lake, but should keep in mind that some of the beaches do not have lifeguard supervision. If you are more interested in hiking and biking, the nearby White Mountains provide the perfect opportunity to explore marked trails. While Sebago Lake also offers activities such as an amusement park and golf courses, they may likely be closed for summer 2020. RVs can be parked at any campground on the lake’s shores.

A beautiful view of the Loyalsock Valley in Worlds End State Park. Nicholas Tonelli. CC BY 2.0.

Mid-Atlantic – Worlds End State Park, Pennsylvania

One of the best places for a socially distanced outdoor adventure is Worlds End State Park in Sullivan County, Pennsylvania. The popular 59.2-mile backpacking trail⁠—the Loyalsock Trail⁠—plays host to a multitude of waterfalls and impressive views. For those who are not interested in hiking but still want to see what the region has to offer, Dry Run Falls is easily accessible in the neighboring Loyalsock State Forest and is located close to a parking area. Splashing in Loyalsock Creek’s ice-cold water is sure to be refreshing as the summer sun turns up the heat. Keep in mind that swimming is prohibited in any other water source at the park, and lifeguards are not on duty. Worlds End offers 70 camping sites, half with electric hookups.

Big Sable Point Lighthouse in Ludington State Park. Rachel Kramer. CC BY 2.0.

Midwest – Ludington State Park, Michigan

If you are most interested in fishing, Ludington State Park offers an abundance of bass, northern pike, bluegill, perch and walleye. A favorite hiking destination is the 112-foot Big Sable Point Lighthouse on the shores of Lake Michigan. Visitors can choose from any of the eight marked hiking trails or can head to the picturesque canoe pathway that is sure to attract avid canoers and kayakers, along with novices.  The park offers plenty of RV parks and campgrounds, some with free Wi-Fi, showers and restrooms. Visitors should keep in mind that the Michigan State Park Recreation Passport, which costs Michigan residents $12 and nonresidents $34 per vehicle, is required to enter Ludington State Park.

View of the Cherohala Skyway with the fall canopy of the adjacent northern hardwood stands, in Graham County, North Carolina. Brian Stansberry. CC BY 3.0.

South Atlantic – Cherohala Skyway, North Carolina to Tennessee

The 43-mile Cherohala Skyway is the perfect ride for those looking for vistas of forested mountainside, hiking trails, waterfalls and unobstructed scenic overlooks. The National Scenic Byway climbs up mountains for 18 miles in North Carolina and winds down the Appalachian mountainsides for another 23 miles into the deep forests of Tennessee. The Cherohala Skyway, named after the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests that it crosses through, is free from crowds—making it a perfect destination for this summer. Along the scenic highway is Indian Boundary Lake, the Tellico River and Bald River Falls, and of course, many beautiful spots for long or short hikes. There are plenty of campgrounds along the scenic route, some more popular than others, so choose according to your comfort levels and COVID-19 regulations.

Gnarled trees dot the shores of Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island. Jeff Gunn. CC BY 2.0.

Southeast – Jekyll Island, Georgia

For a truly unique RV destination, Jekyll Island is a great choice. Bird-watching, biking, swimming and kayaking are only some of the activities you can choose from. One of the most interesting sites to see on Jekyll Island is Driftwood Beach, which transports visitors to a surreal world. The bleached and preserved oak trees appear as though they are growing out of the sand, like a spooky, living boneyard. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is beginning to reopen and is currently limiting admissions to 50 people at a time. Some activities at the rehabilitation center have been canceled for the time being, but keep it in mind for any future trips to Jekyll Island. The Jekyll Island Campground is available for parking an RV this summer, but reservations should be made to ensure your spot is secured.

Paluxy River in Dinosaur Valley State Park. Russ. CC BY-SA 2.0.

Southwest – Dinosaur Valley State Park, Texas

Dinosaur Valley State Park earned its name from the fossilized dinosaur tracks left in the mud along the edges of the Paluxy River in Glen Rose, Texas. The park has over 20 miles of trails to explore and hike. Visitors can book a horseback riding lesson from the Eagle Eye Ranch Carriage Company or go geocaching if they are not interested in visiting the Paluxy River to swim, kayak or fish. Park your RV in any of the 41 fully-electric campsites. Advance reservations are required.

The Fly Geyser in the Black Rock Desert Wilderness. Jeremy C. Munns. CC0.

Mountain West – Black Rock Desert Wilderness, Nevada

The enchanting Black Rock Desert Wilderness is made up of lava beds and various playas, including the dry lakebed of the prehistoric Lake Lahontan. It is home to the annual Burning Man festival, which will take place virtually this year. Visitors can hike any of the 180 miles of nearly-unexplored trails that wind through the area. One of the most exciting sites is the rainbow-colored Fly Geyser. The geyser is the man-made result of a 1964 drilling accident by a geothermal power company that was drilling a test well. Over the years, calcium carbonate deposits have formed over three large mounds that have grown to almost 6 feet tall. Artificial or not, the Fly Geyser is truly a captivating, colorful sight. RV campgrounds do not have any amenities, so keep that in mind when deciding whether to stay at the Black Rock Desert or a private campground in bordering towns.

Colorful beach glass on Glass Beach in Fort Bragg. Gustavo Gerdel. CC BY-SA 4.0.

Pacific West – Fort Bragg, California

For a beachier RV destination, the coastal city of Fort Bragg in Northern California is a great choice for its charming views. Glass Beach at the southern end of MacKerricher State Park offers an interesting alternative to plain sand beaches with its countless beads of naturally polished sea glass. Don’t miss out on Van Damme State Park’s miniature Mendocino cypress forest and be sure to visit the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, most known for their rhododendrons that thrive in the humid, coastal climate. The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens are not yet open to the general public, but are gradually lifting COVID-19 restrictions so it’s worth it to keep checking when they’ll be open to all visitors. Some RV parks and campgrounds in and around Fort Bragg (in particular the campgrounds in the California State Park System) are temporarily closed, while others are slowly reopening for business. Be sure to call and reserve a spot before you go.

Asiya Haouchine

is an Algerian-American writer who graduated from the University of Connecticut in May 2016, earning a BA in journalism and English. She was an editorial intern and contributing writer for Warscapes magazine and the online/blog editor for Long River Review. She is currently studying for her Master’s in Library and Information Science. @AsiyaHaou

Visiting National Parks Could Change Your Thinking About Patriotism

When I took a post-college job as a seasonal ranger at Grand Teton National Park 23 years ago, I noticed right away that my “Smokey Bear” hat carried some serious emotional baggage. As I later wrote in my book, “Reclaiming Nostalgia: Longing for Nature in American Literature,” park visitors saw the hat as an icon of tradition and romance, a symbol of a simpler era long gone.

For many Americans the physical grandeur of parks like Grand Teton, Yosemite and Yellowstone also inspires patriotic pride. Twenty-first-century patriotism is a touchy subject, increasingly claimed by America’s conservative right. But the national park system is designed to be democratic – protecting lands that belong to the public for all to enjoy – and politically neutral. The parks are spaces where love of country can be shared by all.

But some sites send more complex messages. In my new book, “Memorials Matter: Emotion, Environment, and Public Memory at American Historical Sites,” I explore how patriotism plays out at sites where education, not recreation, is the priority. To research it I visited seven memorials to see how their structures and natural landscapes inspire patriotism and other emotions.

For me, and I suspect for many, national memorials elicit conflicting feelings: pride in our nation’s achievements, but also guilt, regret or anger over the costs of progress. Patriotism, especially at sites of shame, can be unsettling – and I see this as a good thing. In my view, honestly confronting the darker parts of U.S. history as well as its best moments is good for tourism, for patriotism and for the nation.

Whose history?

Patriotism has roots in the Latin “patriotia,” meaning “fellow countryman.” It’s common to feel patriotic pride in U.S. technological achievements or military strength, but Americans also glory in the diversity and beauty of our natural landscapes. That kind of patriotism, I think, has the potential to be more inclusive, less divisive and more socially and environmentally just.

National memorials can summon more than one kind of patriotism. Take Mount Rushmore, which was designed explicitly to evoke national pride. Tourists walk the Avenue of Flags, marvel at the labor required to carve four U.S. presidents’ faces out of granite and applaud when rangers invite military veterans onstage during visitor programs. Patriotism at Rushmore centers on labor, progress and the “great men” that the site describes as founding, expanding and defending the U.S.

But there are other perspectives. Viewed from the Peter Norbeck Overlook, a short drive from the main site, the faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln are tiny elements embedded in the expansive Black Hills region. The Black Hills were and still are a sacred place for Lakota peoples that they never willingly relinquished. Viewing Mount Rushmore this way puts those rock faces in context and raises questions about history and justice.

Mt. Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota, viewed from the Peter Norbeck Overlook. Jennifer Ladino, CC BY-ND

Some national monuments conduct reenactments to help visitors relive the past and feel a sense of history and authenticity. At Golden Spike National Historic Site in Utah, tourists can view replica steam locomotives and watch a reenactment of driving the spike that completed the first transcontinental railroad.

This park also ties patriotism to technology, labor, unity and progress. But it downplays countless lives lost during construction, including a disproportionate number of Chinese laborers. There’s an implied whiteness to the patriotism here, although those Chinese workers are receiving belated recognition.

Away from the main complex, however, visitors can see an impressive natural landscape carved by geologic forces. At “Chinaman’s Arch,” they can read about ancient Lake Bonneville, which once covered 20,000 square miles. Against the backdrop of geologic time, human labor and technological power look less impressive. A different feeling of patriotism emerges here that can embrace the physical country all Americans share.

Chinese railroad workers in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, photographed between 1865 and 1869. Alfred Hart/Library of Congress

Sites of shame

Even sites where visitors are meant to feel remorse leave some room for patriotism. But at places like Manzanar National Historic Site in California – one of 10 camps where over 110,000 Japanese Americans were incarcerated during World War II – natural and textual cues prevent any easy patriotic reflexes.

Reconstructed guard towers and barracks help visitors perceive the experience of being detained. I could imagine Japanese-Americans’ shame as I entered claustrophobic buildings and touched the rough straw that filled makeshift mattresses. Many visitors doubtlessly associate mountains with adventure and freedom, but some incarcerees saw the nearby Sierra Nevada as barricades reinforcing the camp’s barbed wire fence.

Rangers play up these emotional tensions on their tours. One ranger positioned a group of schoolchildren atop what were once latrines, and asked them: “Will it happen again? We don’t know. We hope not. We have to stand up for what is right.” Instead of a self-congratulatory sense of being a good citizen, Manzanar leaves visitors with unsettling questions and mixed feelings.

Young tourists experience the humiliating lack of privacy at Manzanar National Historic Site. Jennifer Ladino, CC BY-ND

Humble patriotism

Visiting and writing about these sites made me consider what it would take to recast patriotism as collective pride in the United States’ diverse landscapes and peoples. I believe one essential ingredient is compassion. Recent controversies over Confederate monuments showed that many Americans were unwilling to imagine how public memorials could be offensive or traumatic for others.

Greater clarity about value systems can also help. Psychologists have found striking differences between the moral frameworks that shape liberals’ and conservatives’ views. Conservatives generally prioritize purity, sanctity and loyalty, while liberals tend to value justice in the form of concerns about fairness and harm. In my view, patriotism could bridge the apparent gap between these moral foundations.

My research suggests that visits to memorial sites are helpful for recognizing our interdependence with each other, as inhabitants of a common country. In her recent book, “The Hour of Land: A Personal Topography of America’s National Parks,” Terry Tempest Williams wonders, “What is the relevance of our national parks in the twenty-first century – and how might these public commons bring us back home to a united state of humility?” Places like Manzanar and Golden Spike are part of a common heritage embedded in public lands. It’s our responsibility as citizens to visit these places with both pride and humility.

JENNIFER LADINO is an Associate Professor of English, University of Idaho.

THIS ARTICLE WAS ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON THE CONVERSATION