Mysteries of Sonoran Desert life are slowly revealed and abundantly displayed at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. This International Biosphere Reserve, is an ecorich collection of plants and animals that have adapted to living throughout this surprisingly diverse geological landscape. Scenic drives, wilderness hikes and camping can lead to unravelling the mysteries that await your discovery. 

Photo: National Park Service 

105 years ago today, President Teddy Roosevelt designated the Grand Canyon as a National Monument. This photo shows Mather Point. Not a bad view right?

Photo: W. Tyson Joye, National Park Service 

Rainbow Bridge is the world’s largest known natural bridge. The span has undoubtedly inspired people throughout time—from the neighboring American Indian tribes who consider Rainbow Bridge sacred, to the 300,000 people from around the world who visit it each year.

Photo: Tom Morris 

Given its remote location and notoriously bad weather, Aniakchak National Monument and Preserve is one of the least visited units of the National Park System. A vibrant reminder of Alaska’s location in the volcanically active “Ring of Fire,” the monument is home to an impressive six-mile wide, 2,500 ft. deep caldera formed during a massive eruption 3,500 years ago.

Photo: National Park Service 

On April 20, 2012, President Obama signed a Proclamation to designate the Fort Ord National Monument.  In his proclamation, the President stated that, “The protection of the Fort Ord area will maintain its historical and cultural significance, attract tourists and recreationalists from near and far, and enhance its unique natural resources, for the enjoyment of all Americans.”

The Fort Ord National Monument holds some of the last undeveloped natural wildlands on the Monterey Peninsula.  Located on the former Fort Ord military base, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) protects and manages 35 species of rare plants and animals along with their native coastal habitats.  Habitat preservation and conservation are primary missions for the Fort Ord Public Lands but there are also more than 86 miles of trails for the public to explore on foot, bike or horseback.

Photo: Bureau of Land Management