Spending time in our country’s national parks offers a powerful reminder of nature’s ability to uplift and inspire. In light of recent political developments that have raised concerns about the future of these cherished places, one travel company is offering its first-ever activist-led trips designed to help travelers engage in protecting America's parks.
In May, the Trump administration released its new budget proposal, which included cutting more than $1.2 billion from the park service budget – an almost 25% reduction – after laying off nearly 1,000 National Park Service staff in February. While some fired staffers were rehired, some advocates called the move an "all-out assault on America's national parks."
Under the proposal, not only will park service operations lose funding, but other critical areas, like historic preservation, will also be affected. Other public lands, like national monuments, risk being turned over to the state for management.
In response, sustainable tourism company Intrepid Travel has curated two limited edition "Active-ism" trips focused on protecting these revered landscapes, launching this June. Blending the concept of adventure with activism, each trip will be led by a professional guide and guest activist for the first time to lead in-depth discussions on the importance of our parks while experiencing them firsthand.
