National Park Service
Park Visitor Information - 2009
(Colorado to Illinois)
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Event Lists by State (select from the state list or from the drop list below)
AL | AK | AS | AZ | AR | CA | CO | CT | DE | DC | FL | GA | GU | HI | ID | IL | IN | IA | KS
KY | LA | ME | MD | MA | MI | MN | MS | MO | MT | NE | NV | NH | NJ | NM | NY | NC
ND | OH | OK | OR | PA | PR | RI | SC | SD | TN | TX | UT | VT | VI | VA | WA | WV | WI
Drop List of Events
Colorado
Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site
Interpretive Programs: Interpreters in period clothing perform guided tours daily and living history demonstrations seasonally.
Special Events: June 5 – 6, 2009: Living History Encampment -Visit the 1840s with teachers, students and living history volunteers and staff perfecting their 19th century skills. Participants-in-training attend the full June 4-7 workshop which requires pre-registration by application. Living history training will be given in the trader, trapper-hunter, blacksmith, carpenter, laborer-domestic and topographical engineer roles. Participation is limited. For information, call (719) 383-5023.
July 11, 2009: Kid's Quarters - Seven to eleven year-old children are invited to "step back in time" and experience the life of a trapper, trader, laborer, craftsman, Indian, or soldier. The program emphasizes the historic values of Bent's Old Fort, cultural relationships and work performed in frontier western America. Pre-registration by application is required.
September 19, 2009: Hispanic Heritage Celebration - The rich and colorful history of Mexico's frontier come alive with period adobe work, music and dance, trading cooking, storytelling, livestock use demonstrations and other special programs and exhibits.
For more information about these programs, contact the park at (719) 383-5010 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/beol/.
Bookstore: Bent's Old Fort Book Store has a variety of trade goods, books, and videos on sale. The Trade Goods and Book Store at Bent’s Old Fort offers many of the same trade goods that were exchanged for bison robes and other peltries at the fort in 1846. A visit to the store links you to the past when Bent’s Fort was part of a thriving commercial trading empire. You can purchase replicas of the same goods offered by the Bent brothers and carried along the Santa Fe Trail. Items such as flint and steel, powder horns, and copper rum cups might have been supplies the mountain men needed; the Indians wanted trade beads and coffee; from Mexico came shells and baskets. Hand made leather pouches and blankets, Hudson Bay blankets and Dutch ovens are examples of goods offered for sale.
In addition to trade goods, over 100 titles relating to the Fort, Native Americans, Sand Creek, mountain men, the fur trade, historical cooking, and the Santa Fe Trail are available for every age and level of study. The store is operated by Western National Parks Association, a nonprofit organization authorized by Congress to assist the National Park Service in providing educational materials to park visitors. Your purchases directly support educational and scientific research programs at Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site. Membership in the Association entitles you to a 15% discount on sales items.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
A variety of Ranger led programs are offered throughout the park during the summer months. Joining a ranger is an excellent way to learn more about the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. For more information about ranger programs and summer activities, contact the park at (970) 249-1914, extension 423 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/blca.
Ranger Led Walks
East Portal in Time: Come learn about the historical stories that are part of the Gunnison Tunnel, a herculean effort to build an early-day irrigation project and the town that made it possible. The program strolls along the Gunnison River at the bottom of the Black Canyon. Offered 5 days a week at 10:00, the programs last up to 1.5 hours. The walk is easy and less than 1 mile in length. The program is free, but reservations may be required. Call (970) 249-1914, ext. 423.
Nature Encounters: Join a park ranger for a walk along one of two trails in the park to seize deeper meanings of the natural world on the rims of the canyon. These 2 hour programs provide a moderate hike of 1.5 miles in shady groves of ancient piñon trees or rugged firs.
Discovery Talks: Offered every day at 11:00 and 2:00, ranger talks seek to uncover canyon mysteries in geology, plants and animals. Join a ranger at either Chasm View or Pulpit rock for a 20 minute effort to unearth these secrets. Call for specific locations at (970) 249-1914, ext. 423, or stop at the South Rim Visitor Center.
Evening Programs: With so much diversity in geology and life at the Black Canyon, it’s easy to realize the wonders of the park during the evening programs in the South Rim Amphitheater. Offered Friday, Saturday, and Monday nights.
Discover the Dark: Astronomy Programs
Far from major light pollution sources, Black Canyon of the Gunnison is an ideal location for stargazing. This year national parks celebrate the International Year of Astronomy by continuing a tradition that Galileo began 400 years ago. It was then that he first looked through a telescope at the cosmos in order to understand humanity’s place in the larger universe. Join a ranger for a multimedia program followed by stargazing through telescopes (weather permitting). South Rim Amphitheater, every Thursday night, May 21st – September 17th, check locally for current times.
Bookstore: Western National Parks Association is a nonprofit cooperating association of the National Park Service. Headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, the association was founded in 1938 as the Southwest Monuments Association to support the interpretive activities of the National Park Service.
Today they operate bookstores at sixty-five National Park Service sites throughout the western United States, plus an online store with more than 600 educational products. In addition to developing publications, Western National Parks Association supports park research and helps fund programs that make park visits more meaningful. Visit their store at Black Canyon of the Gunnison or look online at: www.wnpa.org.
Colorado National Monument
Colorado National Monument provides a wide variety of ranger led programs and other activities during the summer months. For more information about these programs and activities, contact the park at (970) 858-3617, 364 or visit the park website at http://www.nps.gov/colm/.
Ranger Led Walks and Talks: The park offers a variety of ranger led walks and talks May through September. Topics include geology, wildlife, desert ecology, cultural history, and more. All ranger led programs are free. Daily 20-minute porch talks are offered at the Saddlehorn Visitor Center. Guided nature walks take place along the Canyon Rim and Alcove Trail 3 to 5 days per week throughout the summer season. The 1.5 hours long walks begin and end at the visitor center. Check the weekly schedules posted at the visitor center and bulletin boards throughout the park for more information.
At Dusk in the Park: Evening programs are offered on Saturday evenings 2 or 3 times a month at the Saddlehorn Campground Amphitheater and Bookcliff Shelter. Rangers and guest speakers offer presentations on a wide range of topics of interest.
Astronomy Programs: Explore the wonders of the night sky at the Saddlehorn Picnic Area with the Western Colorado Astronomy Club and park staff. One Saturday a month throughout the summer and fall astronomers will present an interactive program and have several telescopes available for a tour of the night sky. Weather permitting. Meet at the Saddlehorn Picnic Area parking lot at dusk.
Junior Ranger Program: Colorado National Monument offers a Junior Ranger Program for children ages 5 - 12. The program is a great way to introduce children to the natural wonders of Colorado National Monument and provide opportunity for the whole family to get involved and learn about the park. To become a Junior Ranger, families can pick up a free 14-page activity booklet at the park’s visitor center. After completing the age appropriate requirements described in the booklet and reviewing their work with a ranger at the visitor center, participants are awarded an official Colorado National Monument Junior Ranger badge and certificate.
Colorado National Monument also offers Junior Ranger Explorer Backpacks with field guides, magnify glasses, binoculars and other equipment to help children investigate the hidden life found in canyon country. The backpack provides activities and equipment for children to explore the park in depth. Explorer Backpacks can be checked out at the park’s visitor center for up to four hours during regular operating hours. A deposit is required to cover the cost of replacement at the time of your rental.
Bookstore: The Colorado National Monument Association (CNMA) is a 501(C)3 non-profit educational organization working in cooperation with Colorado National Monument. The CNMA uses proceeds from its bookstore to support interpretive programs at Colorado National Monument and support educational community outreach programs, to fund research projects, and to heighten the educational experience of the visitor by providing modestly priced or free informational materials. The bookstore offers a variety of educational materials including books, maps, t-shirts, postcards, DVDs, and more. You may also shop online by visiting their website at http://www.coloradonma.org/or contact the bookstore by phone at (970) 858-3617, 308.
Curecanti National Recreation Area
A variety of Ranger led programs are offered throughout the park during the summer months. Joining a ranger is an excellent way to learn more about Curecanti. For more information about ranger programs and summer activities, contact the park at (970) 641-2337, extension 205 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/cure.
Morrow Point Boat Tour: The Morrow Point Boat Tour is a 1 1/2 hour trip through the upper Black Canyon within Curecanti. Passengers ride through the canyon on a 42-passenger pontoon boat, accompanied by a National Park Ranger to tell the story behind the scenery. Tours run twice a day at 10:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. every day except Tuesday from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, water conditions permitting. For reservations, please call (970) 641-2337, ext. 205 or stop by the Elk Creek Visitor Center (15 miles west of Gunnison off of Highway 50) to make reservations. Reservations are required and walk-ons are not permitted. We begin taking reservations for the season on May 1.
FEES
$16.00 - Adults
$8.00 - All Children 12 and under
$8.00 - Adults w/ Interagency Senior/Access Pass
Discover the Dark Astronomy Programs: Far from major light pollution sources, Curecanti is an ideal location for stargazing. This year national parks celebrate the International Year of Astronomy by continuing a tradition that Galileo began 400 years ago. It was then that he first looked through a telescope at the cosmos in order to understand humanity’s place in the larger universe. Join a ranger for a multimedia program followed by stargazing through telescopes (weather permitting). Elk Creek Visitor Center, every Saturday night, May 23rd – September 19th, check locally for current times.
Bookstore: Western National Parks Association is a nonprofit cooperating association of the National Park Service. Headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, the association was founded in 1938 as the Southwest Monuments Association to support the interpretive activities of the National Park Service.
Today they operate bookstores at sixty-five National Park Service sites throughout the western United States, plus an online store with more than 600 educational products. In addition to developing publications, Western National Parks Association supports park research and helps fund programs that make park visits more meaningful. Visit their store at Elk Creek Visitor Center in Curecanti or look online at: www.wnpa.org.
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
Ranger Guided Activities: Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the Monument offers a variety of ranger-guided tours. The number and times of tours may change depending on staffing levels so please call ahead at (719) 748 -3253. The types of tours available are listed below:
Interpretive Talks: These are 30 minutes talks that take place in the amphitheater behind the visitor center. They will provide visitors with the basic geologic story of the area.
Guided Walks: These walks usually last 1.5 hours and are one mile in length. The area's geologic history as well as other topics such as modern natural history and human history may be covered in the walks.
Interpretive Fossil Excavation Site: Take a 1/2 mile walk and visit the Interpretive Excavation site (Scudder Pit). Learn from rangers and/or paleontologists how excavations are conducted and see where fossils are found.
Paleontology Lab Demonstration: Visit a field lab (just south of the parking lot) and use microscopes and other equipment to discover fossils.
Hornbek Homestead Tours: Depending upon staffing levels, visitors are sometimes able to join a ranger and tour the buildings of the Hornbek Homestead. If a ranger is not available it is possible to tour the grounds of the homestead on your own.
For more information about summer ranger programs, contact the park at (719) 748-3253 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/flfo.
Bookstore: The Rocky Mountain Nature Association, a non-profit National Park Service Cooperating Association, manages a bookstore/sales outlet in the park visitor center. Items purchased from the Association support the interpretive and educational programs of the Fossil Beds. There is a wide selection of natural and local history books, children's nature books, as well as maps, nature videos, audio cassettes and games. Membership in the RMNA offers the benefit of discounts at the bookstore, as well as those at Rocky Mountain National Park and other sites.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
Scheduled Interpretive Programs: Your visit can be more rewarding when you better understand the environment around you. Ranger programs are offered most days from May through September, and on selected days from October through April. See the current schedule of programs on the park website at www.nps.gov/grsa/. The list of special guest programs is listed here too. Please call the Visitor Center at (719) 378-6399 for more information about programs.
Bookstore: The bookstore at the Visitor Center has an extensive selection of books on nature, science, history, photography, and geography. In addition, visitors will find a variety of maps, posters, t-shirts, postcards, notecards, and more. You may also shop online at the Great Sand Dunes bookstore. This bookstore is operated by Western National Parks Association, a nonprofit organization authorized by Congress to assist the National Park Service in providing educational materials to park visitors. Your purchases directly support educational and scientific research programs at Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Jr. Ranger program: A self-guided Jr. Ranger program is available for interested learners from 3 years old and up. Age appropriate activities will help participants understand more about the park and preserve. Those who complete activities for their age group earn a free Jr. Ranger badge or patch. Ask at the Visitor Center for more information.
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park has a variety of summer programs and activities planned for this summer. For more information about these programs and activities, contact the park at (970) 529-4465 or visit the park website at http://www.nps.gov/meve/.
Summer Programs and Activities
Touring a Cliff Dwelling: You must be accompanied by a park ranger to enter Mesa Verde cliff dwellings. Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and Long House are ranger-guided (tickets required) while Spruce Tree House and Step House are available on a self-guided basis. On Wetherill Mesa, open Memorial Day through Labor Day, Long House is ranger-guided (ticket required) and Step House is self-guided.
Cliff Palace is the largest cliff dwelling. The tour is one hour in length with a walking distance of a 1/4 mile (400 m) involving five 8-10 foot (2.6 - 3 m) ladders and a 100 foot (30 m) vertical climb. The tour begins at the Cliff Palace Overlook.
Balcony House is the most adventurous cliff dwelling tour. This one hour tour involves climbing a 32 foot (10 m) ladder to enter the dwelling. To exit, there is a 12 foot x 18 inch (4 m x 46 cm) wide tunnel to crawl through, followed by a climb of 60 feet (20 m) along an open rock face using two 10 foot (3 m) ladders.
Spruce Tree House is Mesa Verde’s best-preserved cliff dwelling. The 1/2 mile, one-way trail begins at the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum. Allow one hour for the 100 foot (30 m) descent and ascent on a winding paved path.
Long House is located on Wetherill Mesa, the quieter side of Mesa Verde. The 90 minute tour involves climbing three 15 foot (4.5 m) ladders. The 3/4 mile (1.2 km) round trip hike has a 130 foot (40 m) elevation gain when exiting.
Step House, also located on Wetherill Mesa, offers visitors a chance to view pithouses, petroglyphs, and cliff dwelling. A 100ft (30m) descent and ascent on a winding path. Total walking distance, 3/4-mile (1.2km) round-trip.
Far View Sites Tour: A one-hour, ranger-guided tour of these mesa top archeological sites are offered each day at 4:00 pm.
Evening Programs: Two 45 minute programs are offered each evening. The first is held at the Far View Lodge beginning at 7:30 pm. The second program begins at 9:00 pm at the Morefield Campground Amphitheater (weather permitting).
Twilight Tours: Ranger-guided “Twilight Tours” of Cliff Palace begin at 7:00 pm. Each 90 minute tour is limited to 20 people. Tickets must be purchased at the Far View Visitor Center for $10.00.
Junior Ranger Program: Become a Junior Ranger and have fun while learning about Mesa Verde National Park. Becoming a Junior Ranger is a great way to explore your national parks while learning how you can help take care of them for the future. Just pick up a Junior Ranger booklet, for ages 4 to 12, and earn a junior ranger badge as you visit the park and complete the activities for your age group.
Special Events
Four Corners Lecture Series: The Four Corners Lecture Series is an annual program sponsored by Mesa Verde National Park, Mesa Verde Institute, Fort Lewis College, the Anasazi Heritage Center, Crow Canyon Arhcaeological Center, the Cortez Cultural Center, Chaco Culture National Historical Park, and Aztec Ruins National Monument. The theme for the 2009 series is “Not Just One Story: Native American Collaborations with Anthropologists.” For more information, visit www.nps.gov/meve or contact the park at 970-529-4632.
Bookstore
The Mesa Verde Bookstore is operated by the Mesa Verde Museum Association (MVMA), a non-profit organization partnered with Mesa Verde National Park since 1930. MVMA provides educational and interpretive material to visitors through an active publishing program and the operation of retail bookstores in the park, the Colorado Welcome Center in Cortez, and at their electronic bookstore at www.mesaverde.org.
COMMERCIAL SERVICES
Florida
Biscayne National Park
State of the art underwater videos and programs, boat trips, island tours, snorkeling adventures, art openings, Family Fun Fest and a variety of special activities are offered year round at Biscayne National Park. For more information about ranger led activities and programs, contact the park at (305) 230-7275 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/bisc/.
Bookstore: A variety of natural and cultural history guidebooks and publications, plus posters, puzzles, and nature themed items are available for sale through the Everglades Association, the official private, non-profit partner supporting educational, interpretive, and historical and scientific research responsibilities of Biscayne, Dry Tortugas, and Everglades National Parks and Big Cypress National Preserve. Sales profits are returned to the parks to further support their programs to increase public understanding of and support for their long term preservation and care.
COMMERCIAL SERVICES
Dry Tortugas National Park
The Dry Tortugas are an isolated outpost about 70 miles west of Key West. Though it requires a bit of planning, visitors to the park are rewarded with memorable experiences amidst a truly unique landscape. Information about park programs is available by calling the park at (305) 242-7700 or visiting the park website at http://www.nps.gov/drto/
Walking tours of the Fort Jefferson on Garden Key include a walk back in time in one of America’s largest 19th century coastal forts. Snorkeling off the moat wall that surrounds Fort Jefferson is an underwater paradise with corals and other sealife that’s visible all year round.
There are no roads to Dry Tortugas National Park. It can only be reached by boat or seaplane. Private pleasure boats are welcome, but must be fully self-sufficient. U.S. Coast Guard and Geodetic Survey Chart #11438 is necessary for navigation to the Dry Tortugas.
If you don’t have time for the day trip out to the park you can experience some of its natural wonders by visiting the Ecodiscovery Visitor Center in Key West. This is a joint venture by the National Park Service; U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; and, the South Florida Water Management District. The Center is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and located at the Truman Annex – 35 East Quay Road, Key West. Fl 33040. Call for more information at 305-809-4750.
COMMERCIAL SERVICES
Everglades National Park
Ranger Programs: Join us for programs that explore the wonders of Everglades National Park through walks, talks, canoes, kayaks or bicycles. For more information about ranger programs, contact the park at (305) 242-7700 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/ever/.
Bookstore: The Everglades Association features books, videos, and related products about the flora, fauna, and history of Everglades, Biscayne, and Dry Tortugas National Parks and Big Cypress National Preserve. Net proceeds from the sale of products are returned to the National Parks to support park educational and visitor service programs.
COMMERCIAL SERVICES
Gulf Islands National Seashore, Florida/Mississippi
Gulf Islands National Seashore offers a variety of ranger-led tours. Visit historic forts, take a barrier island walk or hike through various island habitats to look for wildlife. Tours are offered throughout the year with morning and afternoon times available. Please check our Schedule of Events for up-to-date information. Ranger-led tours are a great addition to any vacation! Junior ranger Programs are offered during the summer months. For more information about the ranger programs, contact the park at (850) 934-2600 in Florida and at (228) 230-4100 in Mississippi or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/guis/.
Special Tours: Call for availability of tours for large organized groups or for groups needing accessibility attention. For Florida District programs please call (850) 934-2600 or for Mississippi District programs please call (228) 230-4100 for more information or use the park website.
Bookstore: Gulf Islands National Seashore currently operates four Eastern National bookstores located at the Naval Live Oaks Visitor Center in Gulf Breeze, FL; at Fort Barrancas Visitor Center on board Pensacola Naval Air Station; at Fort Pickens on Santa Rosa Island beginning summer 2009; at the Davis Bayou Visitor Center in Ocean Springs, MS. Bookstores sell orientation, history, and natural history books and other merchandise that enhance park visits now and future visits.
Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve/Fort Caroline National Memorial
A new Junior Ranger program at the park provides a great opportunity for children this summer. For more information about the program, contact the park at (904) 641-7155 or visit the park website: http://www.nps.gov/timu/forkids/index.htm
Junior Ranger Program: The Timucuan Preserve announces a new Junior Ranger program for the national parks of Florida’s First Coast and Georgia’s Golden Isles. The Cultures of the Coast Junior Ranger Program is offered free at Jacksonville’s National Park, the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Children who complete the activities are awarded a Cultures of the Coast Junior Ranger badge.
The Cultures of the Coast parks also include Fort Matanzas National Monument and the Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine, Florida; the Timucuan Preserve (Kingsley Plantation) and Fort Caroline National Memorial in Jacksonville, Florida; Cumberland Island National Seashore in St. Marys, Georgia; and Fort Frederica National Monument, located near Brunswick, Georgia on St. Simons Island. The Cultures of the Coast Junior Ranger Program is available at each of these sites.
A new component of the junior ranger program is a digital storytelling activity, where families explore the park and then design and record their favorite park story.
The Timucuan Preserve also has three other Junior Ranger programs. The Timucuan Preserve program can be completed by visiting Fort Caroline National Memorial and the Timucuan Preserve Visitor Center. The Timucuan Trail program can be completed by exploring Kingsley Plantation and the Ribault Club. The preserve also has an online Junior Ranger program.
Georgia
Fort Frederica National Monument
The park offers a variety of summer programs. For more information about these programs, contact the park at (912) 638-3639 or visit the park website at http://www.nps.gov/fofr/.
18th Century Kid's Games: June 6, 2009 at 2:00 pm
Frederica Folkways: The Life of a Soldier: June 20, 2009 at 2:00 pm
Hands On History Camp: June 22-24, 2009 at 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Daily Ranger Programs: Throughout June, 2009 at 11:00 am & 2:00 pm
Bloody Marsh Musket Program : July 7, 2009 at 2:00 pm
"A Thanksgiving for Victory": July 25, 2009 at 2:00 pm
Daily Ranger Programs: Throughout July, 2009 at 11:00 am & 2:00 pm
Colonial Games: farkle, a dice game: August 22, 2009 at 2:00 pm
Daily Ranger Programs: Throughout August, 2009 at 11:00 am & 2:00 pm
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
Interpretive Programs: Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park offers a variety of summer activities, ranging from living history demonstrations and lectures, to guided mountain hikes and walks. To bring the subject of the Civil War alive, artillery, infantry and cavalry demonstrations are offered on weekends throughout the summer.
Special Events:
National Trails Day, June 6, 2009, is a volunteer opportunity for visitors to get outdoors and into National Parks! For more information, please visit www.kennesawmountaintrailclub.org.
The Battlefield commemorates its 145th Battle Anniversary June 27-28, 2009. Please visit our website for a schedule of events.
10th anniversary Civil War Civilian Exhibition presented by the PNJW Collection – A collection of men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing from the Civil War era; June 26-28, 2009, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
For a more complete schedule of events, please visit our website at www.nps.gov/kemo or phone us at (770) 427-4686 ext. 0 for more information or with questions.
Junior Ranger Program: The Battlefield offers a Junior Ranger program to our younger visitors. Interested kids can earn their junior ranger badge by completing at least six activities in the Battlefield’s Junior Ranger book. The book is available in the Visitor Center bookstore for $3 or online at www.kmha.org.
Bookstore: The bookstore is operated by the Kennesaw Mountain Historical Association, a non-profit, co-operating partner of Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. The store offers for sale a variety of Civil War military and civilian books, as well as books on natural history, as Kennesaw Mountain is a Audubon Important Birding Area. Visitors can also find postcards, t-shirts, maps, kid-friendly games and toys and other necessary souvenirs. All profits go to the benefit of Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park’s interpretive and educational programs. To contact the Kennesaw Mountain Historical Association, please visit www.kmha.org.
Other Fun Nearby: Kennesaw Mountain is located north of Atlanta and not far from two other local national park sites, Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site and Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Each are within easy driving from the Battlefield. For more information, please visit www.nps.gov/malu or www.nps.gov/chat.
Hawai'i
Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park is an inspiring outdoor classroom rich in cultural and natural history. Many visitors enjoy learning about the area they are visiting by interacting with park staff. During the summer months, park naturalists present a variety of interpretive programs and hikes. For more information about summer park programs, contact the park at (808) 248-7375 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/hale/.
Kipahulu Area Programs: Orientation talks and short hikes are offered periodically throughout the day as staffing permits. Inquire at Kipahulu Visitor Center Desk or call (808) 248-7375.
Summit Area Programs: Summit area naturalists offer programs ranging from 15 minute talks to half day hikes. When you arrive in the park, stop by one of the visitor centers for the day's program offerings.
Waikamoi Cloud Forest Hike: Start at Hosmer Grove - Just inside the park entrance.
Monday and Thursday at 9:00 a.m. (staffing and weather permitting); program lasts 3 hours and is a 3 mile, round trip, moderately strenuous hike - Hike into the Nature Conservancy's Waikamoi Preserve. Here in windswept native cloud forests, native plants, birds, and invertebrates have woven an ecological fabric that supports some of the rarest and most beautiful of Earth's creatures. Once frequented only by those versed in proper protocol to enter the wao akua (realm of the gods), the preserve today is still off-limits except to those on special hikes led by the Nature Conservancy or park staff. Reservations are recommended. Make a reservation for the hike up to one week in advance by calling (808) 572-4459. Show up at least 15 minutes early and be prepared with layered clothing, raingear, water and sturdy shoes.
A sampling of Special Programs: Call for dates, details and other program offerings at (808) 572-4400.
Walk on the Wet Side: Meet at Hosmer Grove - Just inside park entrance on Sunday afternoon, usually once a month. Reservations are required. The program will last 5 hours, and is 5 miles round trip and moderately strenuous - This is a wet and muddy hike deep into The Nature Conservancy's Waikamoi Preserve. Experience a truly native Hawaiian forest. Discover the inhabitants of this healthy ecosystem. Access to this area is limited to organized hikes offered only by Haleakala National Park or The Nature Conservancy. Call (808) 572-4459 to make a reservation up to one week in advance.
Kilo Hoku Star Program: Meet at Hosmer Grove - just inside park entrance. The program is held on occasional evenings from May to September and is 1hour in length - Join park staff to travel the night skies over Hawaii. Through stories, you'll learn major constellations and the secrets of Polynesian navigation. Wear warm clothes and bring a flashlight and something to lay or sit on.
Lodging: There are three wilderness cabins maintained by the National Park Service for visitor use by advanced reservation lottery. The wilderness cabins are accessible only by trail. To reach the cabins, you must hike a minimum of 3.7 miles to Holua, 5.5 miles to Kapalaoa, and 9.3 miles to Paliku. Each cabin has a wood-burning stove with limited firewood, 2-burner propane stove, cooking utensils, dishes, and 12 padded bunks. In times of drought, cookware will be removed and you must pack in all your water.
There is no electricity in the cabins. Visitors may obtain a cabin reservation up to 90 days in advance online, or in person. Make an online reservation 24-hours a day by going to https://fhnp.org/wcr.
The wilderness cabins are operated by the National Park Service, though the website reservation system is done in partnership with the Friends of Haleakala National Park.
If you are unable to make an online reservation, you may call by phone, call (808) 572-4400 between 1:00 and 3:00 pm Hawaii Standard Time and select the option for "operator". A credit card is needed for payment. Checks are accepted, but must be received within 5 business days of the reservation otherwise the reservation is cancelled.
In person reservations may be made at Park Headquarters Visitor Center during operating hours of 8:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park
The park offers a variety of ranger-led programs throughout the year and especially in the summer. Ranger led programs enrich your knowledge of park resources and Hawaiian culture. The schedule of ranger programs is posted on the Ranger Activities bulletin board in the Kilauea Visitor Center each morning at 9:00 a.m. These free programs may be short presentations in the visitor center auditorium, or a map presentation at the relief map located outside the visitor center on the lanai. Walks may be wheelchair accessible, beginning at the Visitor Center and ending with a spectacular view of Kilauea's caldera or longer hikes to see lava trees, Hawaiian petroglyphs, lava tubes, or traverse craters.
The following hikes are generally offered on a daily basis:
9:30 am & 3:30 pm - "How it all Began" - 20 minute ranger talk on Hawaiian volcanology. Meet the ranger at the relief map on the lanai area outside Kilauea Visitor Center.
10:30 am & 1:30 pm - "Summit Walk" - 45 minutes to 1 hour ranger-led walk. This walk is wheelchair accessible and less than 1/2 mile of walking on a paved path. Topics highlighted: biology, geology, and Hawaiian culture of Kilauea.
After Dark in the Park programs are offered on Tuesday evenings, 2 or 3 times a month. Guest speakers offer presentations on a wide range of topics of interest including geology, biology, and Hawaiian culture and history. The public is invited to attend these programs.
Junior Ranger Program - Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park offers a Junior Ranger Program just for kids from age 7 to 12! Have a memorable visit to two of the world's most active volcanoes and earn a Junior Ranger badge! Ask rangers at the information desk in the Kilauea Visitor Center for the FREE Junior Ranger workbook. Complete 3 activities in the booklet, and participate in a ranger-led activity (view the park's movie or join a ranger-led hike) to earn a badge.
For more information about these and other ranger programs and activities, contact the park at (808) 985-6000 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/havo/.
Bookstore: Giftshops at the Kilauea Visitor Center and Jaggar Museum are operated by the non-profit Hawaii Natural History Association. Their website at http://www.hawaiinaturalhistory.org/ includes an online bookstore. Proceeds from sales of books, maps, music, videos, and educational material directly benefit research, educational, and environmental programs in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.
Idaho
Nez Perce National Historical Park
Nez Perce NHP Summer Programs: June 13 to September 7, 2009.
The Spalding Visitor Center is open every day. During the summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day) the park will be open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Daily Programs at Spalding Visitor Center:
• Tipi Pitching . At 9:30 am daily, help the rangers set up the park’s full size tipi. Program lasts 40 minutes.
• Daily Ranger Programs . At 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm, join the park staff as they share the stories and legacies of the Nez Perce people and culture. Programs last about 25 minutes.
• Junior Ranger Programs . Want to be a Junior Ranger? Children between the ages of 5 and 12 are invited. Bring the entire family and earn a junior ranger badge! Booklet and patch are free; donations accepted.
Films: Nez Perce: Portrait of a People - tells the story of the Nez Perce people. The film is shown throughout the day and is closed captioned and audio described.
For more information about summer programs at Nez Perce NHP, contact the park at (208) 843-7026 or visit the park website at http://www.nps.gov/nepe/.
Illinois
Lincoln Home National Historic Site
A variety of programs, including tours of the Lincoln Home, are being offered during the summer in 2009 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. Joining a ranger is an excellent way to learn more about Lincoln Home National Historic Site. For more information about ranger programs, such as the specific times of programs, contact the park at (217) 391-4241 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/liho.
Lincoln Home Neighborhood Events
Street Theater(Starting June 10, 2009) - Wednesdays through Sundays. Call the park at (217) 391-4241 for specific times of performances. The streets of the Lincoln-era neighborhood come alive with 1850s song and period character performances.
Living History Vignette(Every weekday throughout summer) - An interpreter dressed in historic clothing discusses Lincoln’s hired girl, the artist from Leslie’s Illustrated newspaper who sketched the Lincoln home parlor, or some other period character.
Lincoln Neighborhood Tour(Various dates and times) - Can you imagine being neighbors with a future President of the United States? Learn about the lives of Lincoln’s neighbors and other 1860 Springfield residents. Lincoln neighborhood.
Capitol City Celebration (the evening of July 3 thru July 4, 2009) - A variety of period games, performances and activities will take place as part of the City of Springfield’s Bicentennial celebration.
Lincoln Home Ranger Presentations
Map Table Talk(Various dates and times) - Discover the history of Springfield, Illinois. Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
“Home Grown” Dean House Talk (Various dates and times) - Learn about the Lincoln family as they grew and prospered. Dean house.
Prelude to a Presidency(Various dates and times) - This program highlights the early political career of Abraham Lincoln and discusses how these political experiences prepared him for the Presidency. Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
Walking Downtown Tour(Various dates and times) - Explore Springfield’s historic sites and how they are connected to Lincoln. Starts in Lincoln Home Visitor Center, 2:00 pm.
Tall Tales of a Tall Man(Various dates) - See the park in a different light, who knows what we’ll discover. Starting in the Lincoln Neighborhood, call park for specific program times.
Can You Hear Me Now? (Various dates and times) - A special presentation featuring the invention of the telegraph and its important influence on Abraham Lincoln and the modern world. Lincoln Home Visitor Center, 2:00 pm.
From the Vault(Various dates and times) - View rarely seen artifacts from the Lincoln Home collection and connect to their significance. Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
1858: The Year that Made the Man(Various dates and times) - Come learn how country lawyer turned politician Abraham Lincoln became the man who saved the nation. Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
If not Lincoln...Who? (Various dates and times) - What would the United States and life be like today if Abraham Lincoln had not united the country and brought an end to slavery? Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
Was Lincoln Forced into Glory? (Various dates and times) - Did Abraham Lincoln really free the slaves? Or did he have secret desires of an all white country? Did the Emancipation Proclamation free the slave with one pen stroke, or did it cause slavery to linger longer? Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
The Next Generation(Various dates and times) - Learn about the lives of Abraham Lincoln’s children, in particular Robert Lincoln. Find out the answer to the question, “Are there any descendents of Abraham Lincoln left today?” Lincoln Home Visitor Center Theatre.
Living in Lincoln’s Shadow(Various dates and times) - Discover how the house on the corner of 8th and Jackson went from Mr. Lincoln’s home to a National Park Site. Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
The Black Widow(Various dates and times) - Learn about Mary Lincoln’s life after her husband’s assassination. Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
His Name is Mudd(Various dates and times) - Dr. Samuel Mudd’s name is forever linked to the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Learn about the controversial trial and imprisonment of Dr. Mudd during this special presentation. Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
Special Lincoln Home Tour(Various dates and times) - Learn in-depth information about the museum collection items in the Lincoln home and what these objects meant to the Lincolns. Visitor Center. (obtain free ticket at the Visitor Center front desk.)
Robert Lincoln Tour(Various dates and times) - Tour the Lincoln home through the eyes of Lincoln’s oldest son, Robert Lincoln. Visitor Center. (obtain free ticket at the Visitor Center front desk.)
Lincoln Letters(July 14, 2009 10:00am) - Join Donna McCreary and Dean Dorrell for this exciting reader’s theater. Learn about Mary and Abraham Lincoln’s relationship through their letters and speeches. Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
Mary’s Legacy, According to Robert Lincoln (July 15, 2009,10:00am)
Through the words of Robert Lincoln, discover the good, the bad, and the ugly about Mary Lincoln’s life. Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
There’s Something about Mary(Various dates and times) - Learn about Mary Lincoln’s life; from her childhood, to her role as First Lady, to her life after her husband’s assassination. Starts in Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
Secession Crisis(Various dates and times) - A living history program about the four critical months Mr. Lincoln spent as President-Elect and his reaction to the crisis that lead to the Civil War. Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
Robert Lincoln Commemorative Pet Adoption(August 1, 2009 11:00am-3:00pm)
In honor of the Lincoln boys’ love of pets, see a variety of dogs and consider adopting one. This event is held in partnership with the Animal Protective League of Springfield. Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
Courtship, Marriage and Mourning in Victorian America(Various dates and times)
Learn about the rituals and etiquette binding Victorian-era women, like Mary Lincoln, as they experienced the joys and hardships of life. Find out how these experiences compare to what we go through in similar situations today. Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
Campaign 1860(Various dates and times) - Four candidates, a country divided, an oppressed people, and don’t forget the mudslinging. Hear about all this and more during “Campaign 1860.” Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
Constitution Day Celebration(September 19, 2009) - Learn more about the U.S. Constitution and how it impacts us today. Lincoln Home Visitor Center, time to be announced. For more information contact 217-492-4241.
National Public Lands Day(September 20, 2009) - Help the park with a stewardship project. Starts in Lincoln Home Visitor Center, time to be announced. For more information contact 217-492-4241.
Museum Shop: The Eastern National museum shop, located inside the park’s Visitor Center, offers a large collection of books and other souvenir items related to Abraham Lincoln and mid-nineteenth century Illinois.
Indiana
George Rogers Clark National Historical Park
Come join us this summer to learn about Indiana’s Revolutionary War history! The visitor is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The George Rogers Clark Memorial is currently undergoing major restoration work and will not reopen until July or August. The visitor center, museum, and 30-minute Clark movie are still available to visitors. Also, this summer park staff will have programs given daily throughout the summer months.
For more information about programs that are available or any general park information, contact the park at (812) 882-1776 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/gero
Jr. Ranger Program: Ask a Ranger when you arrive about you can become a Junior Ranger! Complete a few activities and receive the badge you have earned!
Four Junior Ranger Days are scheduled for this summer- one every month with a different theme.
Sunday, June 21 will be “Frontiersman Day.” Different stations will be available for Junior Rangers to learn skills everyone on the frontier had in the eighteenth century- like starting fire with flint and steel, cooking, and details of army life.
Saturday July 11 will be “Water Quality Day.” Come to Oubache Trails Park, anearby county park, and learn from a Park Ranger about how you can test the quality of water and what organisms might be living in it.
Saturday, August 15 will be “Natural Foods Day.” Come out to learn about how to grow natural foods and what different plants can be used for.
Saturday, September 12 will be “Archaeology Day,” recognizing National Archaeology month. Come learn about archaeology and the digs that have been conducted right here at the park.
Special Events: Every Memorial Day weekend is Rendezvous weekend! Come learn about what life was like during the Revolutionary War. Explore a military encampment, see battle reenactments, and enjoy one of the many period performers! This year’s dates are May 23rd and 24th.
Living History Programs: During the summer months, beginning Memorial Day weekend, there will be a Ranger in period dress doing demonstrations with black powder weapons nearly everyday!
The park’s Volunteer Gatherings are held every month when park volunteers come out to talk with our visitors about life in the eighteenth century. This year’s dates are: Sunday, June 21; Sunday, July 19; Saturday and Sunday August 22-23; Saturday, September 19; and Sunday, October18.
Accessibility: The Clark Memorial will be closed until July or August. While the Clark Memorial is unfortunately not accessible, the visitor center is. The visitor center contains a museum and a 30-minute movie about the battle for Fort Sackville.
Bookstore: Eastern National, a non-profit education partner of the National Park Service, operates a small bookstore in the lobby of the park visitor center. It is available daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.