The fall colors are showing at Blue Lake in North Cascades National Park in Washington. Photographer Albert Yang described the scene he captured: “The lake was so still I almost felt like I had to hold my breath to embrace it. I was searching for fall colors and these larch trees were just gorgeous. It was my first time exploring this area and I know I will return many, many times in the future.” Photo courtesy of Albert Yang.

On this day in 1886, the Statue of Liberty was officially dedicated, becoming a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. In 1924, it was designated as a National Monument and the National Park Service has been caring for the colossal copper statue since 1933. Happy birthday, Lady Liberty! Photo courtesy of Michael Bissel.