Hey folks! Jim here back again with another newsletter. Spring is in full swing where I am. My condolences to those of you who still have snow on the ground.
Today I wanted to talk about blending history with nature in our travels. For those of you uninterested in historical sites, don’t tune me out yet, my goal is to show you sites that are known for their history, but also contain beautiful scenery.
Roosevelt Campobello International Park, New Brunswick
I made a trip to this park a few years ago and made the unfortunate mistake of visiting when they were still closed for the season. The park was open, but FDR’s house and the tours of the complex weren’t operating. Initially I was pretty bummed out, but then we explored park’s trails and found beautiful views atop rocky bluffs looking out at the ocean, a quiet beach, and peaceful wooded scenery.
Antietam National Battlefield, Maryland
I have to confess that I still haven’t been here despite it being at the top of my battlefield list for years now. My brothers beat me to it, and they confirm it's just as stunning in person as in the photos. With over 3,000 acres, there's plenty of peaceful scenery to explore that almost makes one forget the profound sacrifices that were made there in 1862, if just for a moment. And when you do visit, please remember to tread with respect, soaking in the history and beauty with the dignity this hallowed ground deserves.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, West Virginia
This one's a no-brainer for the list. Spanning more than 3,500 acres, it not only preserves the infamous site of John Brown's raid but also the encompassing town and landscapes. With the Appalachian Trail cutting through, and ample hiking, biking, and boating spots, you'll be blown away by its beauty. But don't take my word for it, check out our film on it!
Fort Bowie National Historic Site, Arizona
At the heart of the U.S. conflict with the Apache in Arizona lies Fort Bowie. Today, you can roam the haunting remnants of the old fort and hike the surrounding hills within this 1,000-acre historical treasure trove.
Chaco Culture National Historical Park, New Mexico
At nearly 34,000 acres this historical park offers abundant recreational opportunities and plentiful natural scenery. The park of course is a UNESCO world heritage site protecting the sprawling ancient complexes constructed and used by the ancestral Pueblo people well over 1,000 years ago.
Pipestone National Historical Park, Minnesota
Alright, this one's on the smaller side at 282 acres and might not boast miles of hiking trails, but the scenery? Absolutely gorgeous. The park protects sacred quarries that have been used for millennia by native Americans to craft ceremonial pipes. As you steep yourself in this history you’ll walk along Pipestone Creek as it winds its way through forest and leads to the stunning Winnewissa Falls
Effigy Mounds National Monument, Iowa
This 2,500 acre site preserves more than 200 prehistoric mounds built by pre-Columbian Mound Builder cultures well over 1,000 years ago. The mounds are spectacular and form the shapes of various animals, many of which can only be seen from above. Beyond the incredible historical value of the site, there are numerous trails available to hike and the surrounding scenery along the Mississippi River is beautiful.
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My Closing Thoughts
That’s a wrap for now. Of course there's a whole lot more of these history-first spots out there that also offer amazing scenery. Got any personal favorites that fit the bill? Let me know in the comments below or shoot us an email. Until next time!
– Jim