Located in the heart of the South Pacific, National Park of American Samoa offers an escape from the everyday and is one of our most remote parks. With a bit of explorer’s spirit, you can discover secluded villages, snorkel coral reefs, observe tropical forest plants and wildlife, and explore the magnificent island and sea vistas. Check out more public lands that are the perfect escape from the cold: http://on.doi.gov/1QFtX22

You can never see too many sunsets on the Blue Ridge Parkway. After the first snow in Virginia this winter, photographer Brandon Dewey drove out to capture the sights. “The sky normally lights up once the sun dips behind the mountain ridges, but this night, there wasn’t that much color. About 20 minutes after sunset, I was just about to pack up my gear when the sky finally caught on fire for less than two minutes.” Photo courtesy of Brandon Dewey.

Happy Groundhog Day! Groundhogs have short ears and a short tail, and can weigh up to 11 pounds. They have two layers of fur: A dense grey undercoat and a longer coat of banded guard hairs that gives the groundhog a “frosted” appearance. Despite how they look, groundhogs are good swimmers and tree climbers. Photo of a groundhog eating a flower at Shenandoah National Park by National Park Service.

Winter in south Florida means highs in the 70s, making it a great time to visit Big Cypress National Preserve. With over 729,000 acres of freshwater wetlands, Big Cypress is home to an amazing variety of plants and animals, including the rare Florida panther and the iconic American alligator. The sunrise views are also outstanding. Photo by National Park Service.