National Park Week 2012

It's a place to walk the dog, to have a picnic, to play outside and spend time with your kids, your family or just by yourself with a book, a fishing pole or a pair of running shoes.  (except for the kids part... sounds like many of my springs and summers here on the harbor!)

Photo courtesy of Nationalparks.org

National Park Week 2012 starts this, yes I repeat THIS, weekend April 21 and runs through the 29th.  Lucky Grays Harborites have so many parks to choose from, you could visit one a day and it would still take you more than a month to visit them all. 

State parks that usually require a Discover Pass are free all week.  Great news for those of us (ie: ME) who have not taken the short amount of time required to buy the $30 pass when we renew our tabs.

Even if the weather isn't the best, (which it is supposed to be sunny this weekend), our areas 9 state parks, 9 wildlife conservations, and the national park are still great places to visit in the drizzle and fog.  The natural beauty of each park is breathtaking no matter the weather.

Not to mention the hundreds of local city and township parks that are sprinkled in and around our homes and workplaces. 

A few years ago, my mom and I took advantage of one of the many National Park Weeks held throughout the year and hiked our local parks.  It not only felt great to be outside but it made me appreciate the beauty of the area so much more. 

A few suggestions for your exploration week:  If you happen to be headed out to the beach check out Griffiths-Priday, Bottle Beach, and Westport Light.

My personal favorites are Lake Sylvia and Friends Landing in Montesano.  But don't forget about Makarenko Memorial  Park in Cosmopolis.  The memorial park has trails that are perfect for running and soccer fields that are great for a quick pick up game! 

Heading to East County?  Shaffer State Park is beautiful and free this week!

I could continue to tell you about all the local parks we have, and the list would be long, but what I really want you all to do is to Picture yourself Outside!