The National Park Service turns 99 today. Cheers to “America’s Best Idea”! An act signed by President Woodrow Wilson on August 25,1916 officially established the NPS. Prior to that the 35 Parks and Monuments that had been set aside to protect were not under the management of one single agency.

Today, the NPS covers more than 84 million acres across all 50 states and U.S. Territories which include 401 sites and is run which the care of more than 20,000 employees.

Matt Emerson WBNL National Park Service logoThe Arrowhead logo with the mighty Sequoia, Mountains, and Bison is thought to represent our natural and historic legacy and the NPS role in preserving them.

Our National Parks are truly a treasure for all of us to enjoy. They have not always come easily and there are, and always have been, people fighting against them. Thankfully, in most cases, the will of those who are committed to the protection of these sites prevail.

I encourage you to pick up a copy of the Emmy Award winning 2009 PBS documentary produced and directed by Ken BurnsThe National Parks : Americas Best Idea. It is masterfully done and will most certainly increase your appreciation for the Parks.

As the NPS continues to gear-up for their big Centennial Celebration we should all get out and plan to set some time aside to experience our Parks. It’s good for the Parks, and it will be good for YOU!

We’d love to see your pics and share your stories. Add #wanderingbutnotlost in your posts!

Now get out there and #FindYourPark