Swirling star trails grace the night sky at Pinnacles National Park in California, the nation’s 59th and newest national park. 23 million years ago, volcanoes erupted, flowed and slid to form the park’s towering rock spires and rare talus caves that you can hike through today. Photographer Aron Cooperman journeyed 45 minutes through a cave to reach Bear Gulch Reservoir in time to capture this spellbinding scene. Photo courtesy of Aron Cooperman.

Jim McClure-Jerry Peak Wilderness in Idaho was established in August, 2015 following unanimous passage into law by Congress. This 23,916 acre wilderness features hiking, fishing and equestrian use, as well as opportunities to just “get away” and enjoy some solitude. The view from Jerry Peak alone is worth the visit. Photo by Matt Leidecker, @mypubliclands.

A hike through alder branches, thick vine maple stands, stinging nettle, devil’s club and a moss-covered gully is all worth it to reach this gem-colored lake. Bright and inviting, that first cold plunge into the icy lake re-invigorates like nothing else can. That’s what a trip to North Cascades National Park in Washington is all about. Photo from Trapper Lake courtesy of Crystal Brindle.

The first eastern national park, Acadia’s rugged coast has beckoned visitors for ages. Today people from all over the world come to Acadia National Park in Maine to hike granite peaks, bike historic carriage roads, or relax and enjoy the scenery. Photo of the Bubbles from Jordan Pond by Kristi Rugg, National Park Service.