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The mystique of Martin Guitars

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White Sheets in the White House

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For the second time in history, a human-made object has reached the space between the stars. NASA’s Voyager 2 probe now has exited the heliosphere – the protective bubble of particles and magnetic fields created by the Sun.

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All this week, we’re celebrating 50 years of the Wild and Scenic Rivers System and the National Trails System. This stunning photo is from the Appalachian National Scenic Trail – which was established on October 2, 1968. Conceived in 1921, built by private citizens and completed in 1937, the Appalachian Trail (or A.T.) stretches 2,180 miles from central Maine to northern Georgia. As it winds through the Washington Mountains in western Massachusetts, it grazes the headwaters of the Westfield Wild and Scenic River, a partnership river also created and managed by citizens in surrounding communities. The A.T. was one of the first trails in the National Trails System, along with the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Today, the system includes 11 national scenic trails, 19 national historic trails and over 1,200 national recreation trails throughout the country that link historic sites, wildlife refuges, national parks, national forests and wilderness areas. Whether it’s a short day hike or an epic thru-hike, there are plenty of opportunities to #FindYourWay along one of your nation’s amazing trails. Photo by J. Smilanic (www.sharetheexperience.org).

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On May 27, 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco opened to the public. Over 80 years later, the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most famous and beautiful bridges in the world because of its spectacular location, graceful lines, Art Deco detailing and emblematic color. With towers extending 746 feet into the sky and over 100 feet beneath the bay, the bridge is also an engineering marvel. Visitors can walk or bike the entire length of the 1.7 mile-long bridge, but dress warmly and don’t forget to check out nearby Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Photo by Dave Gordon (www.sharetheexperience.org).

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Like waves rolling on the ocean, layers of ridgelines at Great Smoky Mountains National Park  extend out to a stunning sunrise. On the Tennessee-North Carolina border, Clingman’s Dome is the highest point in the park and a premier destination for photographers. Inspired by Ansel Adams and a lover of national park, photographer Zack Knudsen captured this amazing moment in the park a few weeks ago. Photo courtesy of Zack Knudsen

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Folk Alley Sessions: Mandolin Orange - "Little Worlds"

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Superorganism: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

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Imagine a network of pathways and waterways through a corridor rich in natural beauty and historic importance. The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail runs from Pennsylvania through Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. Visitors can explore by biking, hiking, riding or paddling. It’s a great place to get exercise the mind, body and spirit. Photo of Bonds Landing on the Potomac by Monica Larcom, National Park Service.

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Happy Arbor Day from Redwood National and State Parks – home of the world’s tallest trees. These towering trees sprout from a seed the size of a tomato seed, and they can grow to a height of 367 feet. That’s about the size of 35-story skyscraper. These trees’ ability to regenerate allows it to prosper despite insects and fire, and ultimately to survive as a species. Visitors to California’s Redwood National and State Parks and Headwaters Forest Reserve often come to just see these world-famous trees, but nothing prepares them for a hike in the ethereal forests of massive redwoods shrouded in fog with light streaming through the trees. Check out more remarkable trees on public lands: on.doi.gov/trees 

Photo courtesy of Scotty Perkins.

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Lowell George / Cheek To Cheek

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The Temptations just my imagination

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It’s the first day of spring! We hope you’re making plans to get outside on your public lands to enjoy the coming color. We’re excited for scenes like last year’s Superbloom at Carrizo Plain National Monument in California, where wildflowers put on a spectacular show. Photo by Bob Wick, Bureau of Land Management.

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We don’t know what event this is or who is winning, but we love watching. Two bull elk battling at Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. To the bold goes the gold. Photo courtesy of Zach Rockvam.

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Grandfather Mountain looms over the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, frosted in the white and blue shades of winter. Thought to be one of the oldest mountains in the Appalachians, Grandfather Mountain’s imposing size forced engineers to develop a difficult solution to completing the Parkway. Linn Cove Viaduct carries the road over the shoulder of this wonderful mountain, preserving its unique geology and providing stunning views. Photo courtesy of Jim Ruff.

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As we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, we remember his message of unity and service. One of the most influential people in our history, Dr. King’s legacy continues to inspire. At the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial on the National Mall and Memorial Parks in Washington, D.C., 14 quotes focusing on justice, democracy, hope and love surround the statue of him. Located a short walk from the Lincoln Memorial where Dr. King gave his famous “I Have A Dream” speech, it’s a powerful and enlightening place. Photo by Jim Evangelista (www.sharetheexperience.org).