Theodore Roosevelt, the Father of our National Park system, perhaps said it best, "There are no words that can tell the hidden spirit of the wilderness, that can reveal its mystery...and its charm." We couldn't agree more. Nowhere is it easier to experience those qualities, and many more, than in America’s National Parks.

 

Mystery, charm, pristine beauty and the marvel of nature are just some of the reasons that millions of people are drawn to our National Parks each year. In fact, 2010 was a record breaking year for attendance for most of our beloved parks. With varied landscapes, wildlife, and adventure, the opportunities for you to experience the allure of the wilderness are endless.

 

Why not consider staying closer to homethis year and venture with our homegrown guides off the well-troddentourist path and into the heart of America's national treasures.

Yellowstone National Park was the world's first National Park and for over a century, it has remained number one in the hearts of millions. Imagine virgin forests, snowcapped mountains, thundering waterfalls, shimmering lakes and roaring thermal basins spanning 3,472 square miles of protected wilderness. In Austin-Lehman style, we'll help you discover the many wonders this park has to offer.

With more watchable wildlife than anywhere outside of Africa's Serengeti, you'll want to keep your camera handy. Thrill to the herds of bison, witness a majestic bull elk as he stands guard over his clan, spot elusive wolves on a sunrise hunt and if you are lucky, capture a grizzly and her cubs frolicking in a meadow of wildflowers.

 

Austin-Lehman offers an array of adventure vacation options in Yellowstone for families, adults and private groups. It's our backyard and our guides know it like no one else! They'll take you away from the crowds and allow you to experience the park in a way that its founders intended: pure and untouched.

At the age 14, Ansel Adams started his photography career with a simple Brownie Camera and a trip to Yosemite National Park. This was a life changing experience for the young man who became one of the world's leading nature photographers and advocates for wilderness preservation. The immense inspiration he drew from the grandeur and mystique of this truly unique park left him returning for the rest of his life.

 

With 761,266 acres of breath-taking mountains, technicolor meadows and emerald forests, plus the largest waterfall in all of North America, it is easy to understand why millions of visitors come each year. The best way to experience the magic is on an Austin-Lehman small group adventure! With a variety of activities each day and the classic comforts offered by three distinct lodges, we capture the very best of the park, inspiring travelers from all walks of life.

Why not return to your roots and join us in Yosemite this year! Call an ALA Adventure Consultant at 800-575-1540 to check on availability and to reserve your space today! See why Yosemite is much more than just a vacation. As in Ansel’s case, it can be a life changing experience.

At Austin-Lehman we have a deep dedication to protecting our nation’snatural gifts, and in that spirit have designated Yosemite as our 2011recipient of our Preserve a Park Program. This year we’ll be donating$100 per guest booked on any of our Yosemite Adventures. Funds willgo to help support habitat restoration, trail repair, education,wildlife management and scientific research.