Keith Ramos took this stellar photo of the Arora Borealis over the Nowitna River in the Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska. This photo was submitted to the 2012 National Wildlife Refuge Association photo contest. To see more entries, click here.

Here’s a cool picture of the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument in central Montana. These lands hold a spectacular array of plant life, wildlife, unique geological features, endless recreation opportunities and significant historical and cultural values. The rugged landscape has retained much of its unspoiled character over the centuries and, as a result, offers outstanding opportunities for #solitude and dispersed recreation.

Photo: Bureau of Land Management 

A summer tradition: In the Source to the Sea Trek, Mainers and visitors paddle the Androscoggin River from Lake Umbagog Refuge to Brunswick, ME. A record 350 paddlers took part in the 17th annual Trek in July and August. Because of the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund, the whole river is now accessible to the public, and paddling-related businesses that provide jobs for our economy.

Photo: Stew Stryker