As we celebrate this significant day, we reflect on the natural beauty and historic significance found in our national parks. The National Parks Conservation Association recently highlighted five distinctive national park features named for events that took place on this holiday.

Among the notable landmarks is Independence Rock in Wyoming, where fur trappers celebrated Independence Day in 1830. This granite outcrop, known as the "Register of the Desert," is a historic waypoint on several national trails. "According to legend, pioneers aimed to reach the rock by July 4 to avoid the coming snows. They used it as a bulletin board of sorts, carving their names and messages into the granite. For this reason, it is also known as the Register of the Desert."

 

Another site, 4th of July Beach in San Juan Island National Historical Park, marks the spot where an American tax collector hoisted a large flag to irritate the British in 1859. Today, it offers serene views and a historical pathway.

Independence Monument in Colorado National Monument boasts a 450-foot sandstone formation where a flag-raising tradition began on July 4, 1911, symbolizing national pride.

Fourth of July Pass in North Cascades National Park was given its name after a road crew camped in this site while they were building a wagon road on July 4, 1861.

Finally, Independence Creek in Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail commemorates the explorers' camp on July 4, 1804, at a site significant to the Kanza people.

https://www.npca.org/articles/3875-5-park-landmarks-with-curious-july-4-histories