Certain places evoke a specific feeling. Redwood National and State Parks in California definitely qualifies. “When I think of the Redwood forest, I think of giant trees, lush green ferns, fog and beams of light shining through the forest canopy. This is exactly the feeling that I set out to capture during a recent trip to the Redwoods. While driving through the Del Norte Redwoods, I saw the light bursting through the trees, so I quickly pulled the car over, jumped out and ran into the forest, hoping that the light would last long enough to capture a few images,” said photographer David Dinette. We think he got it. Photo courtesy of David Dinette.

America’s public lands offer a romantic setting for any love story. Every year thousands get engaged and married at national parks, wildlife refuges and scenic wildernesses. Love is meant to be shared, and as a tradition on Valentine’s Day, we’re sharing heartfelt moments sent to us by you. Happy Valentine’s Day!

There’s no better place to celebrate National Fishing and Boating Week than America’s public waters. On rivers, lakes, ponds, wetlands and oceans, you can paddle thrilling whitewater or float your way to relaxation. Grab your rod and reel (and maybe a friend) and try to hook the big one. Whatever you do, make a splash. Photo of Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area in Colorado by Bob Wick, Bureau of Land Management. #FindYourWay

Is there a better way to fight the summer heat than getting out on the water? Kayaking Lake Superior at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan offers amazing views of unique rock formations and endless blue water. Oh, and there are beaches, waterfalls and hiking trails to explore, too! Photo by Courtney Kotewa (www.sharetheexperience.org).

Water and wind have carved unique shapes into the soft stone of Canyonlands National Park in Utah. Over millions of years, incredible natural sculptures have emerged and eroded away. What you see in the park now is only temporary. As the work of erosion continues, today’s geologic displays will eventually disappear, making way for future wonders. Photo by Kait Thomas, National Park Service.

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore hugs 15 miles of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national lakeshore’s 15,000 acres will continually enchant you.  Hikers will enjoy 45 miles of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers, and peaceful forests.

Photo: Christopher Reif (www.sharetheexperience.org)

Happy National Get Outdoors Day! Participants from federal agencies, nonprofit organizations and the recreation industry are again teaming up to host the 7th annual National Get Outdoors Day to encourage healthy, active outdoor fun at sites across the nation. Today these diverse partners will offer opportunities for American families to experience traditional and non-traditional types of outdoor activities. Prime goals of the day are reaching currently underserved populations and first-time visitors to public lands, and reconnecting our youth to the great outdoors.

To learn more about events in your area today, visit http://www.nationalgetoutdoorsday.org/.

Photo from Lake Mead National Recreation Area by Cheryl Hobbs (www.sharetheexperience.org)

Though a short distance from the urban areas of Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park seems worlds away. The park is a refuge for native plants and wildlife, and provides routes of discovery for visitors. The winding Cuyahoga River gives way to deep forests, rolling hills, and open farmlands. Walk or ride the Towpath Trail to follow the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal.

Photo of Brandywine Falls by Brian Frankforther (www.sharetheexperience.org)

“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings.” -John Muir.

Photo taken on top of Divide Mountain in Denali National Park by Daniel A. Leifheit

Ready to escape the hubbub of the city? Gather your fishing tackle, rafting oars, and hiking boots and head out to the North Umpqua Wild and Scenic River. This awesome stretch of silky turquoise water tumbles along Highway 138 outside of Roseburg, Oregon. Here, you can truly enjoy the magic of nature and get away from the hubbub of city life. Enjoy!

Photo: Bureau of Land Management