I'm an adventurous soul on a mission to explore all 63 national parks. My passion lies in crafting short stories and sharing personal photographs that capture the essence of these remarkable journeys. Through my words and images, I strive to convey...
On our one-year dating anniversary, we decided to go on a road trip. Down the street from our house, we bought an orange 1985 Volkswagen Vanagon, fixed it up, and hit the road for three weeks to visit family and friends. It was the year 2000, GPS apps weren't a thing; instead, we relied on AAA maps for directions and tour books by state with suggestions on where to stay and the best sights to see.
One of our stops was in St. Louis, Missouri, to see the Gateway Arch. The Gateway Arch, formerly named Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, earned its national park status in 2018, making it the 60th National Park. Currently, there are 63 National Parks and 425 units that make up the National Park System, showcasing the diverse natural and cultural heritage of the United States. Exploring these remarkable places offers an opportunity to appreciate the nation's history and stunning landscapes. This marks my second national park, and it's just the beginning of our adventure to explore these incredible national treasures.
Going up in the arch felt like we were in a spaceship. There were windows on both sides with views of St. Louis on the East side and the mighty Mississippi River alongside the state of Illinois on the West side. Here's a fun fact about the Gateway Arch: it's the tallest stainless steel monument in the world! But that's not all – it was also home to the world's first floating McDonald's. And, naturally, back then, it was a must-stop for some super-sized fries.
I've had the pleasure of visiting the Gateway Arch on several occasions, and each visit is a captivating experience. Its distinctive structure makes it an iconic landmark. Whether you drive by it, stroll through the nearby park, or ride the tram to the top, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
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