National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks by John Waterman – Book Review

When we were traveling in our fifthwheel we didn’t really have a schedule beyond being in New Jersey for Thanksgiving and Georgia for Christmas. Then on to Montana for the summer. In between we pretty much went wherever we wanted to go. That left a lot of time for visiting different states and especially lots of National Parks and Monuments along the way. The National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks by Jon Waterman would have been an awesome asset to have during those travels. I thank TLC Book Tours for sending me a copy at no charge for my honest review.

About National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks:

The first book of its kind, this stunning atlas showcases America’s spectacular park system from coast to coast, richly illustrated with an inspiring and informative collection of maps, graphics, and photographs.

From the white sand beaches of Dry Tortugas to the snowy peaks of Denali, this captivating book combines authoritative park maps with hundreds of graphics and photographs to tell the stories of America’s sixty one beloved national parks. Former ranger and author Jonathan Waterman introduces readers to the country’s scenic reserves and highlights the extraordinary features that distinguish each: magnificent landmarks, thriving ecosystems, representative wildlife, fascinating histories, and more. With striking imagery and state-of-the-art graphics reflecting details of wildlife, climate, culture, archaeology, recreation, and more, this lush reference provides an up-close look at what makes these lands so special–and so uniquely American. A heartfelt foreword from National Geographic CEO Gary Knell reminds us how important these lands are to our lives and our national pride.

About the Author:

JON WATERMAN is an award-winning author, filmmaker, and adventurer who has received three grants from the National Geographic Society Expeditions Council. In addition to exploring and documenting various parts of the United States, he is a former ranger for the National Park Service and a longtime wilderness guide. His writing has appeared in the Washington Post, the New York Times, Adventure, Outside, and Backpacker and his books include Running Dry, In the Shadow of Denali, Where Mountains Are Nameless, and Arctic Crossing, among others.

My Opinion:

Do I really have to write that this a most stunning book? It is from National Geographic so you know the photos are going to be out of this world – and they are. The large, coffee table book opens with a discussion of the National Park system and from there breaks down the Parks by area; Eastern Coast and Forest Parks, Central Plains, Lakes and Mountains Parks, Desert Southwest Parks, Pacific Northwest Parks, Alaska and Hawaii Parks and More National Parks at a Glance.

Each Park featured is introduced with words, maps and photos. If you have visited a specific Park you can look it up and relive your trip. If you are planning a trip you can learn some valuable information about the place you want to visit. If you want to dream, this book lets your soul take wing.

Take Yellowstone – my favorite Park. The Park is in three states; Idaho, Montana and Wyoming. Mostly Wyoming but that doesn’t keep Montana from claiming it. It is a place of unparalled beauty and if you can get there I encourage you to do so. If you can’t this glorious book will at least give you a gourmet taste so you can dream until you visit.

It’s the kind of book you keep around to pull out when you need your spirits lifted because the beauty found inside can’t help but give you hope for a better world. The book also educates you as to the various eco systems found in the US and the beauty that can be found within them. I had no idea how beautiful the desert could be until we traveled through southern Utah. Oh.My.Word. The area that encompasses Capitol Reef, Canyonlands and Arches National Parks is astoundingly beautiful. Stunning red rock vistas. Not far from them are Zion and Bryce Canyon – also glorious visions of what nature can offer but in a different way.

Southern Utah is a place I feel fortunate to have spent so much time visiting. Reading through this book took me back to those days. If you know someone who has been gifting this to them will bring back their visit and remind them of that joy. Otherwise it could be a vicarious visit for you.

I cannot say enough about how gorgeous this book is. I have picked it up so many times to just revisit a Park. Like Acadia in Maine. It’s been decades since we visited there and yet looking at the chapter reminded me of the glory of that trip in the early days of our marriage.

This is a magnificent book on so many levels. From the photos to the vast amount of information presented about the National Park system. It would definitely be a fantastic addition to any home library.

Rating:

5

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