Teens in Ladera
Close your eyes and picture yourself in a beautiful, natural landscape. Where did you imagine yourself to be?
Did you envision a dense forest, trees towering above you as sunlight peeks through their leaves? Or maybe snowcapped mountain peaks surrounding calm waters, perfect for skipping rocks? Perhaps even a vast desert expanse, with mazes of rocky canyons and a boundless starry sky overhead.
Whether you envisioned waves crashing along an expansive shoreline or wildlife-filled flowering meadows, there’s a good chance that such vibrant scenes can be discovered within North America’s national parks.
Across the United States and Canada, there are 100 National Park sites, preserving the splendor of untouched scenic landscapes. As technology advances rapidly, now is the perfect opportunity to explore the wonder of the natural environments around us to gain an appreciation of the great outdoors.
These parks offer the opportunity to experience the beauty of our planet through informational visitor centers and drivable scenic roads. They display historical records and nature guides, which help visitors understand the value of safeguarding natural wonders for future generations.
For those who wish to visit locations distanced from the infrastructure and civilization or to enjoy physical and mental challenges, there are hiking trails that range in difficulty. National parks care for and maintain trails and roads that allow the public to access and experience roaring waterfalls that are taller than skyscrapers or glacial mountain views that stretch for miles.
While national parks span the country, some are just a few hours away from Ladera Ranch. They offer unrivaled views of California: Channel Islands, Joshua Tree, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Death Valley, Pinnacles, and Yosemite. These national parks showcase the diversity of our wonderful state, from the coastline to the desert.
Yosemite, in particular, contains iconic landmarks such as Yosemite Falls, a waterfall twice the height of the Empire State Building, and Half Dome, a towering rock formation well known for its round shape. Sequoia offers a chance to walk through a forest of giants, containing General Sherman, the largest tree in the world, while Death Valley allows you to stand in the lowest point in North America.
National parks are integral to our understanding of nature and the importance of protecting our environment. Nature offers magnificent views and a chance to stretch our legs outdoors. As summer fast approaches, consider taking a trip to see the wonders of our country through national parks!
