National Park Service August Fee Free Days - Part 5

 

Our National Park Service is an abundance of riches. Our Park Rangers are a great resource for learning the history and significance of the parks as well as the safety precautions for each park. Here are more suggestions for fantastic outdoor adventure destinations.

Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico

On the slopes of the Jemez Volcanic fields are over 33,000 acres of rugged but beautiful canyon and mesa country, which offer a wide variety of outdoor adventures.  There are only 3 miles of road, but over 70 miles of hiking trails. Petroglyphs, dwellings carved into the soft rock cliffs, and standing masonry walls pay tribute to the early days of a culture that still survives in the surrounding communities.

  • Hiking trails have been mapped for both short and long hikes.
  • 2 campgrounds available for overnight stays
  • Backpacking overnight permits available
  • Boating
  • Picnicking
  • Nighttime astronomy programs by NPS Rangers, reservations required

 Cross-country skiing is another activity that is available at this Park which is open all year. Before visiting Bandelier, it is especially important to get more information:  https://www.nps.gov/band/index.htm

Over 70% of the hiking trails are at high altitudes (over 5000 feet). Be sure to check out the NPS page devoted to safe preparation for high altitude hiking.  https://www.nps.gov/articles/hiking-safety.htm

 

Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, Ohio

The Battle of Lake Erie was fought on September 10, 1813, off the coast of Ohio during the War of 1812.  Nine vessels of hte US Navy defeated and captured 6 vessels of the British Royal Navy.  This ensured American control of the lake for the rest of the war and was one of the biggest naval battles of the War.

 

 

The Perry's Victory Visitor Center offers art, exhibits and artifacts from the Battle of Lake Erie. A 15 minute film covering the history of the battle is shown regularly throughout the day. The Visitor Center and film are free and open to the public, 10 am to 6 pm. daily, during the operating season.  Last ascent to Observation Deck begins 30 minutes before closing.

 

 Black Powder Demonstrations

Firing demonstrations of reproduction flintlock muskets take place ever Friday, Saturday, and Sunday on the hour from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. On scheduled weekends there are firing demonstrations of a reproduction 32-pounder carronade.

 Fishing at Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial

What comes to mind when you think about fising?  Patience, relaxation, challenge, and memories are a few words often associated with fishing.  Take some time to explore and learn what the park has to offer.For more information before you go: https://www.nps.gov/pevi/index.htm

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