Wide expanses of land make Southwest sunsets some of the best in the United States, and the view from Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is no exception. Straddling the border of Utah and Arizona, this desert gem is a perfect place to explore golden cliffs, lush hanging gardens, narrow slot canyons and the brilliant blue paradox of Lake Powell. Photo by Jeremy Stevens (www.sharetheexperience.org).

Icy water reflects the sunset at Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge in New Jersey. More than 80 percent of the refuge’s 47,000 acres is wetlands. The quiet tidal waters serve as nurseries, spawning and feeding grounds for fish and shellfish, which are important in the diets of many wildlife species – particularly the migratory birds who live and visit here. Photo by Kris Orr (www.sharetheexperience.org).

From snow-blanketed mountains to evergreen forests dripping with rain to ocean beaches pounded by winter storms waves, there are many ways to experience winter in Olympic National Park in Washington. Hurricane Ridge is the epicenter for snow and winter recreation, with opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country and downhill skiing, snowboarding and tubing. Be sure to check conditions before you go, as heavy snows can lead to road closures. Photo by John Robinson (www.sharetheexperience.org).

While Acadia National Park in Maine is famous for its sunrises, stay after dark to view incredible night skies and experience Acadia’s rocky coastline by starlight. Dark night skies are great for stargazing and serve as a crucial resource for nocturnal plants and animals. Photo of the Milky Way over Boulder Beach courtesy of Manish Mamtani.

At the west end of the National Mall in Washington, D.C., the Lincoln Memorial stands in tribute to President Abraham Lincoln. It’s not only a reminder of one of our history’s greatest figures, but a place of celebration, education and demonstration. In times of trouble and of peace, the National Mall has served as America’s symbolic front yard and the eyes of Lincoln’s statue have kept watch over our unfolding history. Photo by Yu Sheng (www.sharetheexperience.org).

Zion National Park’s reddish rocks wear a coat of snow in this serene winter photo from last January. After winter storms, snow can disappear within just a few hours at lower elevations, making these magical sights short-lived. If you’re visiting, be sure to check with the park for the most recent conditions and closures. Photo by Sierra Coon, National Park Service.

We can’t help but smile after seeing this big grin from one of the fishes at Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Comprised of four refuges situated in the Florida Keys, the complex protects the critical habitats on the land and in the water for wildlife like the American crocodile, the endangered Key deer, the Great White Herons and others. Photo by Kristie Killam, USFWS.

Comprised of 4 million acres in southwest Alaska, Lake Clark National Park and Preserve is one of the nation’s most remote national parks. Winter conditions add more challenges to those wanting to explore this gorgeous and diverse landscape, but as you can see, the backcountry scenes are worth the cold. Photo of Tanalian Falls by James Walton, National Park Service.

As we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, we remember his message of unity and service. One of the most influential people in our history, Dr. King’s legacy continues to inspire. At the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., 14 quotes focusing on justice, democracy, hope and love surround the statue of him. Located a short walk from the Lincoln Memorial, where Dr. King gave his famous “I Have A Dream” speech, it’s a powerful and enlightening place. Photo by Jim Evangelista (www.sharetheexperience.org).

An unforgettable night sky – with a tinge of color from the Northern Lights – stretches over Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. America’s national parks hold some of the last remaining harbors of darkness where visitors can enjoy the splendor of these protected dark skies. Photographer Matthew Newman says his nighttime adventure forever changed the way he experiences nature: “Making a seven-mile snowshoe hike round trip in the middle of the night to try and capture the Aurora Borealis and Milky Way from this location was amazing.” Photo courtesy of Matthew Newman.