I've shared hundreds of pictures of Shenandoah National Park over the years, so it's no secret that I'm a big fan. I've also posted a bunch from Assateague National Seashore and some of the National Historical Parks, especially nearby Cedar Creek and Belle Grove. Right now there are some political proposals that would impact access to these national parks so I want to voice my appreciation of these treasures. I do not want to see another entrance fee hike and I would hate to see a government shutdown that closes the parks, even temporarily.
Allow me to show some reasons that I love Shenandoah National Park. It is not far from where I live so I visit it frequently. These photos are from October, one of the most colorful months in Shenandoah.
 |
| View Near Luray, VA. |
Much of the labor that went into developing Shenandoah National Park was done by the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps), a New Deal program. This statue at Big Meadows honors the young men of the CCC. This program operated from 1933 to 1942.I am grateful to these people and also to the farmers who had to move from their land when it was incorporated into the park. Some did not want to leave the beautiful mountains and were nonetheless evicted. You can learn about them and the park's history at the Big Meadows Visitors Center.
It now costs $25 to drive into the park. Those of us who have purchased Senior Passes or Annual Passes do not have to pay this, but I think that the present fee already discourages people on a tight budget from enjoying this special place. The proposed fee of $70 would pretty much make it impossible for persons on limited incomes to drive up here, unless they are eligible for a free pass (military or disabled, for instance).
Hikers, however, can enter the park on foot using trails like the Appalachian Trail. The entrance fee is for vehicles, and cyclists pay a lower amount.
 |
| View of Front Royal at Night |
 |
| Click on the PhotoCollage to see a larger version. |
Sharing with Through My Lens and Tuesday Treasures
...what a treasure!
ReplyDeleteHello, I love our national parks too. Shenandoah is one of our favorites. I hope the fee is not raised. It is worse for the parks and national lands out west, they want to take the land back and drill for oil, gas and minerals. Our forefathers would not agree to this raping of our park lands. I am really sad to see all that is being done by our government right now. Enjoy and have a happy day!
ReplyDeletewe need to build them up for all to see, not a limited attraction
ReplyDeleteIt is beautiful. I haven't visited it in years and I need to go back!
ReplyDeleteI too love our National parks! We need to let our elected officials know that rate hikes and shrinking national monuments will not be tolerated.
ReplyDeleteIt is a treasure.
ReplyDeleteEverything that "man" in the White House does these days is an abomination, and messing around with the parks and national monuments the way he wants to do is just adding onto how verminous he is.
You have a lot of support from people who agree with you, from here in Canada as well as in your own country. In fact many of us just sit in amazement at where your politics has gone. Parks should be sacrosanct.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos! I treasure our parks too.
ReplyDeleteDearest Linda,
ReplyDeletewhat wonderful wievs, they truly won my heart, you're right being proud for such Wonder !
Wishing you a most Beautiful Season,
I'm sending blessings on your way
XOXO Dany
We share your appreciation of Shenandoah National Park and all other parks. Your photos show why we love it so much.
ReplyDelete