OSHER 414 - Wonderland in the Desert: A History of Utah's National Parks

From Delicate Arch to the Zion Narrows, Utah's five national parks and nine national monuments display some of America's most amazing scenic treasures. There are fascinating human stories behind each of these protected places, which we will explore using a variety of historical journals and contemporary accounts. We will witness the awestruck experiences of explorers, scientists, artists, and travelers who encountered the landscapes of the Colorado Plateau, and we will see how visionary park advocates opened these unique places to modern tourism. Expect lively discussion about current park management issues, and come prepared to share your own stories of adventures in places like Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands!