Explore the Oregon Coast at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, which stretches a mile from the shore into the Pacific Ocean. Look for harbor seals year-round and gray whales feeding in shallow waters during summer months. Listen to the applause-like sound as the waves roll in over the rounded rocks of Cobble Beach. When the tide is low, a vibrant ocean floor is revealed – stroll alongside tide pools to see colorful animals like orange sea stars, purple sea urchins and giant green anemones. It’s also home to Oregon’s tallest lighthouse! Photo by Bob Wick, @mypubliclands

It’s been 15 years since the tragic events of September 11, 2001, but the images of that day remain clear. Two planes were flown into the World Trade Center in New York and a third into the Pentagon in Virginia. Nearly 3,000 people lost their lives. Because of the actions of 40 passengers and crew aboard the fourth plane, Flight 93, the U.S. Capitol was saved. In New York, Virginia, Pennsylvania and across the country, people will gather today to remember the depth of our loss and the strength of our resolve. By visiting these places and hearing their stories, those who were taken will never be forgotten. Photo from the Flight 93 National Memorial by Tami Heilemann, Interior.

With pinkish clouds over serene blue waters and stately trees, there’s beauty everywhere you look at Crater Lake National Park in Oregon! Photographer Jeff C. Bryant waited until just the right moment to capture this striking sunset shot: “As someone who photographs sunsets quite often, you win some and lose some. One thing I’ve learned is not to leave early!” We think this shot is definitely on the winning side. Photo courtesy of Jeff C. Bryant,

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.