Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge is a small piece of land in the Indian River Lagoon on the Atlantic coast of Florida. It may look tiny, but it has a very large international footprint. The 5400+ acres of land and water (mostly water) represent the world’s first wildlife refuge. Established on this day in 1903, the refuge continues to protect beautiful birds like this glossy ibis. Learn more about the history of the national wildlife refuge system: https://on.doi.gov/refuges2017. Photo by Keenan Adams, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The desert at sunrise seems so peaceful and still, but if you look closer, the sights and sounds of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in Arizona reveal a remarkable community of plants and animals. Human stories echo throughout this desert preserve, chronicling thousands of years of desert living. A scenic drive, wilderness hike or a night of camping will expose you to a living desert that beautiful and thriving. Photo by National Park Service.

Just 75 miles from the bustle of Washington, D.C., Shenandoah National Park is your escape to cascading waterfalls, spectacular vistas and one of the best drives on the east coast. There are 75 overlooks along the park’s Skyline Drive that offer stunning views of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley to the west or the rolling Piedmont to the east. So roll down your windows, feel the breeze and experience every curve and turn of this beautiful drive. Photo from The Point Overlook at milepost 55 by National Park Service.