…. an admiration of America’s National Parks and the National Park Service. Their representation in our country’s heritage and history is unequaled. This connection when synced with the concept found among Fanatical Birders who plan a once-in-a-lifetime event called a “Big Year”, attempting to spot as many species of our winged friends as they can in one year, was the impetus. This Quest will be my Big Year for our country’s National Parks. I intend to “spot” 423 parks. This will be thrilling. (photo - U.S.S. Cairo in Vicksburg NMP, MS)

Update as of December 29, 2022 - President Biden has signed Congress’ new spending bill, which includes the establishment of New Philadelphia NHS in Illinois. This means the count is 424 parks. I plan to stop at New Philadelphia during the Quest. On May 2, 2023, I visited the new park.

President Biden established Emmett Till and Mamie-Till Mobley National Monument on July 25. This is #425. I will visit the park on October 8.