Lunar New Year in the National Parks: The Year of the Snake
Robert DeckerCelebrate the Year of the Snake: National Parks to Explore in 2025
As we welcome 2025 and the Year of the Snake, it’s the perfect opportunity to embrace the symbolism of transformation, renewal, and adaptability by exploring the natural wonders of America’s national parks. Snakes play an important role in maintaining ecological balance and offer a reminder of the beauty and resilience found in nature. To honor this year’s zodiac, here are three national parks to visit that showcase the unique connection between snakes, serpentine landscapes, and the power of transformation.
1. Death Valley National Park: A Desert of Serpentine Beauty
Death Valley National Park, located in California and Nevada, is known for its extreme landscapes and otherworldly beauty. While it might seem like an unlikely home for snakes, this desert oasis is home to species like the sidewinder rattlesnake, famous for its unique sideways movement across the shifting sands. Watching these snakes move is a testament to adaptability—a key trait symbolized by the Year of the Snake.
Beyond its fascinating wildlife, Death Valley offers striking "serpentine" visuals in its landscape. The park’s winding canyons, like Mosaic Canyon, and its undulating sand dunes, such as those at Mesquite Flat, echo the shapes of a snake weaving through the desert. Visit during sunrise or sunset to witness the dunes glowing gold, a sight that feels both transformative and timeless.
2. Grand Canyon National Park: Home of the Grand Canyon Rattlesnake
Few places embody transformation like Grand Canyon National Park, where the Colorado River has carved a stunning serpentine masterpiece over millions of years. The park’s winding trails and breathtaking vistas offer endless opportunities for exploration and reflection.
It’s also home to one of the most unique rattlesnake species in the world: the Grand Canyon Rattlesnake, with its pinkish hue that blends seamlessly with the canyon’s rocks. Encountering this snake in its natural habitat is a reminder of how well-adapted these creatures are to their environment.
To celebrate the Year of the Snake, hike trails like the South Kaibab Trail, where you can witness the canyon’s dramatic layers and winding beauty. Take in the views from Hopi Point or Desert View Watchtower and marvel at the natural artistry of this iconic landscape.
3. Everglades National Park: A Haven for Snakes and Wildlife
In the lush wetlands of Everglades National Park, snakes are an integral part of the ecosystem. This Florida treasure is home to a variety of species, including the Eastern Indigo Snake, a strikingly beautiful and non-venomous snake, and the invasive Burmese Python, which has become a focal point of conservation efforts.
The Everglades' serpentine waterways and mangrove forests are perfect for exploration, whether by kayak or airboat. Trails like the Gumbo Limbo Trail or Shark Valley Loop immerse you in this vibrant ecosystem, where you can spot snakes alongside alligators, turtles, and wading birds.
As the Year of the Snake encourages reflection and renewal, consider how you can contribute to conservation efforts in the Everglades, such as supporting programs aimed at controlling invasive species and protecting native wildlife.
Celebrate the Year of the Snake in the Parks
In 2025, let the Year of the Snake inspire your travels to these incredible parks. From the stark beauty of Death Valley’s deserts to the winding depths of the Grand Canyon and the thriving ecosystems of the Everglades, each destination offers a unique connection to the themes of transformation and renewal.
So, pack your bags and set out on an adventure that celebrates the wisdom and adaptability of the snake. Let these parks remind you of the beauty and resilience of nature—and maybe even inspire a little transformation of your own.
Which park will you visit first to honor the Year of the Snake?