National Park Service Hoping You’ll Visit This Summer

We're into that time of the year when many families are trying to figure out where to go on vacation this summer. And the National Park Service is hoping you'll choose one of their 407 parks by launching a new twitter campaign called #FindYourPark. They've also rolled out a new website that shows where all the National Parks are located across the country. To check it out.

I have to admit, when I first read the story, I had no idea the country had 407 National Parks - I knew we had a lot, but not that many. And what's ironic is, just this week, some friends of ours told us they're retiring this Fall with a goal of visiting ALL 407 National Parks. They're selling their house and gonna live in their fifth-wheel.

Do you know where the nearest National Park is to Sioux Falls? It's Pipestone National Monument in Pipestone, Minnesota. That's the spot where the red pipestone used in the making of prayer pipes has been quarried for generations. Many believe the red stone carries one's prayers to the Great Spirit.

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I remember visiting Pipestone National Monument years ago on a field trip when I was in elementary school. The part I remember the most is the rock formation that looks like the profile of an Indian Chief. It's also one of the few places left on earth that has native tallgrass prairie.

You know what - I think I've just decided where to take my next daylong motorcycle trip. I'm going to head back to Pipestone National Monument and revisit some of my elementary school memories.  Who's with me?