This image captures a scenic view of Crater Lake within Crater Lake National Park in southern Oregon. Formation: The lake is located within a massive caldera formed approximately 7,700 years ago following the violent volcanic eruption and subsequent collapse of Mount Mazama. Unique Features: It is the deepest lake in the United States, reaching a depth of 1,943 feet (592 meters), and is renowned for its incredibly clear, deep blue water, which is fed entirely by rain and snow. Wizard Island: Visible in the center of the lake, Wizard Island is a volcanic cinder cone that emerged after the initial collapse of the mountain. Landscape: The surrounding caldera walls rise nearly 2,000 feet above the water's surface, and the area features old-growth forests, including various coniferous trees like the Mountain Hemlock and Abies (firs) seen in the foreground. Visitor Information: As Oregon's only national park, it is a popular destination for its breathtaking vistas, hiking trails such as those along the Rim Drive, and its status as a pristine natural wonder.

Crater Lake (Mazama) overlook.
I don't think it's possible to take a bad picture up there.
#stunday #sunday #photography #craterlake #pnw #westcoastkin #eastcoastkin #nature #landscape #naturephotography #relax #tranquil #outdoors #MickTrip #RoadTrips #NationalParks #StateParks

This image shows a person standing at an overlook, taking in a scenic view of a large body of water surrounded by mountains. The setting is characteristic of alpine lake environments, such as Crater Lake, often visited for hiking and scenic vistas.

Our roommate's reaction first time visiting Crater Lake upper rim overlook.
#stunday #sunday #photography #craterlake #pnw #westcoastkin #eastcoastkin #nature #landscape #naturephotography #relax #tranquil #outdoors #MickTrip #RoadTrips #NationalParks #StateParks

I Almost Fell! Hiking Gooseberry Falls State Park in WINTER — Minnesota North Shore

#GooseberryFalls #MinnesotaHiking #NorthShoreMinnesota #WinterHiking #MinnesotaWinter #StateParks #FrozenFalls #MNOutdoors #AntoneOutdoors #LakeSuperior #MinnesotaStatePark #HikingMinnesota #WinterTrails #IceHiking

Mt. Diablo and a light purple haze in the #background, many years ago, from the Blackhawk trail in the foreground, at Mt. Diablo State Park near Clayton, #California. For #BlueSkyArtShow.

#EastCoastKin #hiking #StateParks #landscapephotography #outdoors #landscape

'Shining Through' by christianburton_2375 Find more inspiring images at VIEWBUG - the world’s most rewarding photo community.

Peaking Through www.viewbug.com/photo/103258... #NaturePhotography #nature #naturelovers #Nevada #valleyoffire #stateparks #valleyoffirestatepark

The image displays a grove of coast redwood trees (Sequoia sempervirens), which are native to the coastal regions of Northern California. Here are some details about these magnificent trees: Height and Size: Coast redwoods are recognized as the tallest living things on Earth, often reaching immense heights exceeding 300 feet. Age: These trees can live for thousands of years, with many old-growth individuals standing for centuries. Habitat: They thrive in the cool, humid, coastal climate of Northern California, where they frequently benefit from the Pacific Ocean sea mists that drift inland. Ecosystem: Redwood forests are vital ecosystems characterized by towering canopies, a relatively open understory, and a unique forest floor often covered with ferns and redwood sorrel. Conservation: These trees are protected in various parks and reserves, such as Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Redwood National Park, and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which are popular destinations for nature lovers and hikers

The image features a sign for The Founders Grove located within Humboldt Redwoods State Park in California. Key information about this location: Most Popular Destination: Founders Grove is widely considered the most visited redwood stand in Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Easy Access: It is conveniently located just off the scenic "Avenue of the Giants" road. Nature Trail: The site features an easy, level, half-mile loop trail suitable for most visitors. Notable Trees: The grove is home to famous specimens, including the Founders Tree and the fallen Dyerville Giant.

Just a walk in the forest is good for your soul 🌲🪾🌲
#ForestFriday #Scape #Redwoods #Humbolt #ECK#WestCoastKin
#NationalParks #StateParks
#Nature #Photography
#MickTrip #RoadTrips #Hiking #Camping

This collage showcases the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains in California, featuring scenery commonly found in and around areas like Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Giant Sequoias: Several images highlight the iconic, towering giant sequoia trees, known for their immense size and historical significance in the region. Diverse Landscapes: The collection captures a variety of terrains, including dense forests, mountainous ridges, rivers, and high-altitude rocky vistas. Recreational Setting: Elements such as established walking trails, forested campsites, and scenic lookouts illustrate the area's popularity for hiking, camping, and nature appreciation. Geological Features: The images include dramatic rock formations and mountain peaks typical of the high Sierra Nevada landscape. Environmental Context: The photos reflect the rugged, wild nature of this environment, which is highly valued for its biodiversity and protected as part of the national park and forest system.

A few highlights from previous road trip adventures. I've seen some twice. I will see one or two new ones this year. I've still to see Hawaii and Alaska, but I've driven the 48 contiguous states.
#MickTrip
#RoadTrips
#NationalParks
#StateParks
#Hiking
#Camping

This image displays a mapped driving route across the United States, originating in Hillsboro, Oregon, and terminating in the Chicago, Illinois area. Route: The suggested path travels through several states, including Idaho, Utah, Colorado, Kansas, and Missouri. Duration and Distance: The trip covers approximately 2,848 miles and is estimated to take 44 hours of driving time. Key Waypoints: Notable stops featured along or near the route include Arches National Park, Denver, Kansas City, and St. Louis.

The image displays a map illustrating a road trip route across the United States, connecting the Pacific Northwest to the Midwest. The highlighted route connects the Seattle/Portland area to the Chicago/Detroit area. The journey spans approximately 2,751 miles and is estimated to take about 43 hours of driving time. Major landmarks and cities marked along the route include Painted Hills, Spokane, West Yellowstone, Yellowstone National Park, and various states including Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois. This visual represents a long-distance cross-country trip, a common planning tool for travel between these regions.

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a premier 2,650-mile national scenic trail stretching from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon, and Washington. Renowned for hiking and equestrian use, it traverses mountains, forests, and deserts. It takes roughly 5-6 months to thru-hike, requiring permits and careful planning.

Oh, but where next? I've been to about 43 National Parks and dozens of State Parks. {That Senior Forever Pass paid for itself the first trip.) Travel becomes questionable in these times. Gas is not cheap. Maybe it's time to hoof it?
#MickTrip #RoadTrips #NationalParks #StateParks #PNW #PCT #Hiking

A small bird, mostly gray with brown wings and stripes on his head, is perched at the top of a juniper. Its mouth is open in song. He is perched in side profile and facing to the right of the image.

We'll be back at Trinidad Lake State Park in Colorado later this spring, and I'm hoping that this chipping sparrow I saw on the regular there last spring will still be around. He was a welcome sight, and listen, nearly every morning. #OpenBeak #BirdOfTheDay #birds #stateparks #colorado

A small bird with a light-gray chest, black neck and throat, and white bars at the top and bottom of its face is perched on a plant stem. It is perched facing forward and looking to its right.

This black-throated sparrow was chillin' at Arizona's Homolovi State Park, just east of Winslow, last spring. These are some of my favorite sparrows -- just gorgeous. #BirdOfTheDay #tricolor #stateparks #arizona

Letchworth State Park
Castile, New York

September 2025

#WeekforLforLayers
#AlphabetChallenge
#EastCoastKin
#WestCoastKin
#Wildimages
#Stateparks
#treesky

Here’s some nice crystal clear waters at Manatee Springs, a first magnitude spring in Levy County, Florida. Photo by Adam Jewell. Buy prints, puzzles, coffee cups and more at AdamJewell.com

Here’s some nice crystal clear waters at Manatee Springs state park, a first magnitude spring in Levy County, Florida.

Prints —> adamjewell.com/featured/coo...

#florida #manateesprings #stateparks #photography #floridaparks #springs #springwaters #floridaphotography #nature

Ranger Sarah relaxes by the fire with a warm drink after a long day of exploring.
— at Wilson State Park (Kansas).

#adventuresofrangersarah #rangersarah #camping #Kansas #kansasstateparks #statepark #stateparks #outdoors #outdooradventures

Ranger Sarah has arrived at Wilson State Park's Hell Creek Area where she will be camping for the night.
— at Wilson State Park (Kansas).

#adventuresofrangersarah #rangersarah #camping #Kansas #kansasstateparks #statepark #stateparks #outdoors #outdooradventures

This image displays a safety warning sign posted at the base of Big Four Mountain, alerting visitors to extreme hazards in the area. Key information from the sign includes: Extreme Danger: The area is designated as an "Avalanche Zone," and visitors are strongly discouraged from entering, exploring, or climbing upon the ice caves, as they are formed by ongoing, dangerous geological processes. Life-Threatening Risks: The sign explicitly warns that "Ice Caves Kill." Specific Hazards: The area is subject to frequent avalanches, falling rocks, hidden holes and fissures in snowfields, and the collapse of caves and ice falls. Safety Guidance: Visitors are advised to stay on marked trails and maintain a respectful, safe distance from these dangerous zones.

Every sign tells a story.
#MickTrip #RoadTrips #NationalParks #StateParks
#HotCoffeeBurns

Colorado State Parks bracket is back! Round 1 winners are ready for the next showdown—your votes decide who moves on.

Chatfield vs Roxborough
Lory vs Mueller
Golden Gate vs Ridgway
Lathrop vs Lake Pueblo

Vote in the comments & let the park madness continue!
#StateParks #ColoradoMarchMadness

Wolf Rocks Overlook Forbes State Forest Pennsylvania

#BlueskyArtShow
#EastCoastKin
#Photography
#StateParks
#Nature
#Forest
#Stone

The image displays dramatic volcanic rock formations located in Leslie Gulch, which is situated in the high desert of eastern Oregon. Geological Origin: These formations are composed primarily of Leslie Gulch Tuff, which is consolidated volcanic ash. Formation History: The landscape was created by violent volcanic eruptions from the nearby Mahogany Mountain caldera approximately 15.5 million years ago. Erosion: Over millions of years, wind and water erosion have carved these volcanic deposits into the striking towers, ridges, and rugged shapes seen today. Landscape Characteristics: The area is known for its vivid, colorful rock features that share geological similarities with other notable volcanic sites in Oregon, such as Smith Rock State Park.

Leslie Gulch, Oregon. #BlueSkyArtShow
Saturday March 21, 2026
The theme is #Stone
#art #artists #photgraphy #drawing #painting #sketching #writing #poetry
#LeslieGulch
#MickTrip #RoadTrips #NationalParks #StateParks

Shows some rough rocks with a smooth stone sitting on it. On the stone is carved: "STAY ON THE PATH"

Nothing is written in stone?
#BlueSkyArtShow
Saturday March 21, 2026
The theme is #Stone

Pebble or boulder, pavement or castle, anything made of or containing stones this week.
#art #artists #photgraphy #drawing #painting #sketching #writing #poetry
#MickTrip #RoadTrips #NationalParks #StateParks

Fall in Afton State Park in Afton, MN. 10/19/2008. flic.kr/p/5vijEq

#Fall #Autumn #AftonStatePark #Afton #Minnesota #MN #MinnesotaStateParks #StateParks #Nature #Outdoors

A warm yellow sun rises over a calm lake that’s rimmed with light snow. The sun is rising over trees on the far bank. The sky is blue with light clouds.

Sunrise over Rose Lake at Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio. #ODNR #HockingHills #sunrise #stateparks

Summit of Sonoma Mountain. 9 mile trail via Jack London State Park. #stateparks
#sonomavalley

A large, highly textured, vertical rock fills the foreground. There’s a split in the rock at the top, the the right side seems to touch the clouds above. The sky is partly cloudy and late afternoon sun casts a warm glow on everything.

"Only from the heart can you touch the sky" ~Rumi

Happy #RockinTuesday, Blue Sky!

Saw this magnificent sculpture of a rock during one of my hikes last week.

#EastCoastKin #Photography #Landscape
#StateParks #Arizona #Hiking

Hiked the Crooked River Trail at Smith Rock State Park, Oregon. Great park!
#hiking #Oregon #smithrock #stateparks #rockclimbing #rocknroll #petrock #rocks #nature

Two saguaros, one large with multiple “arms” and a smaller one with a single column are in the foreground against a backdrop of desert landscape and blue, partly cloudy sky. The late afternoon sun casts a warm glow.

From a late afternoon hike in the Sonoran Desert this week.

#StunDay #EastCoastKin #Photography #StateParks #Arizona #hiking

Onlookers

10/13/23 in Valley Of Fire State Park in Nevada

#photography #sheep #valleyoffire #nevada #stateparks #silhouette #redrocks #nature #naturephotography #travel #roadtrip #photosky #pentax

A small gray bird with a steel-gray beak and a small crest atop its lil' head is perched atop a pinon pine.

For #BirdOfTheDay, here's a juniper titmouse, not atop a juniper but a pinon pine instead, at Trinidad Lake State Park in southern Colorado from last summer. #GrayDay #GreyDay #GraighDay #Birds #stateparks #Colorado

A bridge over Tom's Run Creek in Cook Forest State Park, Pennsylvania

#HumansOfBluesky
#BlueskyArtShow
#Photography
#Pennsylvania
#StateParks
#Horizontal
#Nature

Barr Lake State Park with my dear companion, Jaspar. #photography #nature #colorado #coloradotravel #rockymountains #barrlakestatepark #stateparks #nationalparks

The Catalina mountains are in view with the late day sun reflecting off the peaks. A saguaro is in the lower right side of the frame. The sky above is turquoise with pink clouds.

Exploring Catalina State Park is like hiking through a post card.

#Scape #EastCoastKin #Photography #Landscape #Arizona #StateParks