NPCA Logo Revision

The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), an independent, nonpartisan voice working to address major threats facing the National Park System. NPCA was established in 1919. The mission of the NPCA is to protect and enhance America’s National Park System for present and future generations. They have continued to be a strong voice in this cause over the years.

To enhance its voice, the NPCA has revised their logo to better service over a variety of mediums from print to digital media. The redesign was performed by NPCA's Graphic Designer, Annie Riker.

The redesign is elegant and respectful of the long history of the NPCA and their mission. I believe the mark makes a bold statement and projects the strength of this worthy organization.

Annie Riker explains,

"Our previous logo served us well for almost fifty years, but had come to look dated and traditional. My goal was to create something clear, clean, memorable, and, most importantly, readable across all media—from Twitter and Facebook to publications and event invitations.

Our intent was to make the change be an evolution, not a revolution."

You can read a complete article about the design process that Annie Riker took at the newly designed Park Advocate, the NPCA's blog.

Defend What's Yours

The State of California is planning to close 70 state parks this year due to budget issues. If you live in California, I urge you to visit the California State Park Foundation to learn how you can voice your thoughts on keeping them open. Our parks are places for all to enjoy, places that help the local economy, and places in trust for future generations. Please express to your legislative representative that there are better ways to save a few million dollars.

Mesa Verde National Park

I experienced a recent visit to southern Colorado that included breathtaking vistas and historical architecture at Mesa Verde National Park. Mesa Verde National Park, Spanish for green table, is rich in history and showcases the lives of Ancestral Pueblo people who lived in the area from 600 A.D. to 1300 A.D. The Ancestral Pueblo people build homes in the cliffs below the mesas. The structures are fabricated of stone and show the architectural prowess of these native Americans. The park has over 600 archeological sites that are cliff dwellings along with mesa top pueblos and towers. Keys sites to visit include the Cliff Palace, the Long House, and the Spruce Tree house. A hike down the trails leads you to buildings that will amaze not only due to there age but also the organization structures that make up these homes. I found this park to be a fascinating visit full of surprises and amazement. If you are in the area, take some time and enjoy this jewel of the National Park system.

Arches National Park

This past week, we had the joy of visiting Arches National Park in Moab UT. The park with the largest concentration of natural arches in the world is full sights that amaze. The view of Delicate Arch is pristine and the natural colors of the sandstone takes your breath away. Try to experience the park at sunset for colors that inspire and awe.

Blowing Off Some Steam

The Pacific Island National Park has some outstanding photographs and video of the recent eruptions in Hawaii. Check it out and see the magic and power of the earth.

(photos via NPS)

California Redwoods and the Coast

Today we paid homage to the California Redwoods at Redwood National Park. I have seen the redwoods in the past at Muir Woods outside of SF but see such large groves in Northern California today was amazing. We drove down US101 which goes through many of the redwood groves. The drive is amazing going from the coast to the trees then back again. It is a stimulant for the eyes.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Yesterday was spend in Olympic National Park after the ferry crossing from Victoria Canada. I had seen images from the area prior to arriving but the greens are so intense in Olympic. The ferns and moss form a carpet of green that is just so rich and amazing. Just when you think nature can not bring any more on, she does in this place of beauty and richness.

Vancouver to Victoria

Our travels took us to Vancouver for the day. We had time to explore the city and Stanley Park of Vancouver. After the city came a ferry ride to Victoria for our stay at the Fairmont Empress. The Empress is a historical hotel build at the turn of the century full of class and style. Victoria is a nice city and we are enjoying our time by the water.

Banff and Drive to Vancouver

Some last images from the town of Banff and Lake Louise are above. Other images are from the drive to the Vancouver area today. Canada's Route 1 is an amazing road to view and shows off some of Canada's most beautiful scenery.

Video of Banff Canada

The view of Banff Canada from the top of Sanson's Peak and Sulphur Mountain (7,486 ft / 2,281m). Access is gained by riding the Banff Gondola to the top of the mountain. The experience is well worth the time.

Banff Canada

Our journey has taken us to Banff Canada in the Canadian Rockies. The town and area just beautiful. The town of Banff is located in a National Park by the same name. The Banff area is overlooked by mountain peaks that are snow covered at the moment making the visit even more spectacular.

Old Faithful Video

A short video shot with iPhone of us at Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park.

The Border

The US and Canada Border, Montana and Alberta, US Route 89. The cows are Canadian, the mountains are Glacier National Park.

Glacier National Park

We just spend a few days at Glacier National Park. Just when you think things can not get more beautiful, nature keeps pulling out all the stops. The mountain peaks are impressive and grand covered with snow and a few of the glaciers that are left. Glacier National Park was an excellent experience. Here are a few photos from the past two days.

Yellowstone National Park - Day 3

Spend another fine day touring America's First National Park. Yellowstone was founded in 1872 when President Grant "dedicated and set apart as a public park or pleasuring ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people." I can see why Yellowstone became a model for all future parks around this country and even the world for that matter. Yellowstone varies from area to area from bubbling hot springs to forest thick and green. Plan on a few days at a minimum if you are planning a visit, there is a ton to dazzle your senses.