Dora Liu

I turned 30 this year — not by the calendar, but according to my National Park map. Having visited 30 National Parks, I’m halfway toward my goal of exploring all 63 National Parks in the United States. My National Park journey began at Haleakala National Park on Maui when I was in high school. Back then, I thought of it as just a local tourist spot. My travel dreams were focused on exploring international cities. The Grand Canyon was the only National Park on my radar — until I saw it in person. 

Seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time opened my eyes to the importance of National Parks. They preserve not only the stunning landscapes but also the rich history and geology of these incredible places. That moment made me want to experience as many National Parks as possible. 

I’ve visited most Parks only once, but I’ve returned to a few, including Yosemite National Park and the Grand Canyon. These two are easy to reach, offer spectacular views, and have fascinating geological stories. At Yosemite, wildlife roams free in its natural habitat — unlike the enclosures at a zoo. The stunning sights, combined with outdoor activities, make these Parks ideal vacation spots. I never get tired of Half Dome at Yosemite. Whether viewing it from Glacier Point, Columbia Rock, or Sentinel Bridge, it’s always amazing to see how nature can form such unique structures. 

My first visit to the Grand Canyon South Rim left me awestruck. The massive canyon, with its layered geological formations, stretched wide and deep before me. A few years later, I visited the North Rim, and the lush, green landscape was a surprising contrast to the desert red of the South Rim. 

Another unforgettable stop was Arches National Park in Utah. I’ve only been there once, but I’d love to return. The natural stone arches and formations — created by erosion — are like nothing else. It’s incredible that so many arches exist in one small area. 

My journey through the National Parks continues, and I know Park #31 will be another memorable adventure.