I love our national parks and truly believe they’re one of the best things we’ve ever done as a country. But it’s also the serenity of nature and seeing and experiencing nature without a “Disney” type atmosphere that makes these places special. With the crowds in the parks in recent years, I’ve really preferred to spend my time in other areas. It can take a little more work to find animals, but it’s often more rewarding when it happens. I recently came across this chocolate-colored black bear a few days ago. It grazed quietly on grass as I watched and photographed safely from my car. Eventually it moved into the trees up the hillside, the moment was wonderful and I’m thankful for each of these quiet encounters when they occur.