This year our country is celebrating 100 years of the National Park Service. Established in the summer of 1916 under the Department of the Interior the mission is defined as:

"The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. The Park Service cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country and the world."

There will be celebrations all year long to commemorate this centennial with events and activities in all the parks.

We have been fortunate to visit a some of our national parks in states like Montana, Colorado, Arizona and, of course California. As hiking enthusiasts we always enjoy the scenery and views and Martin always comes away inspired by birds and foliage spotted along the trails that may become new door handles and cabinet pulls in the future. Here are just a few of the photos we have taken over the years.