Sacred Landscapes chronicles Sam Gennawey’s remarkable six-year, 175,000-mile, van-life journey exploring over 380 sacred locations preserved by the United States National Park Service. These remarkable parks showcase the best of America—the stunning beauty of nature, historic sites of great significance, and the stories of inspirational people who have left lasting impressions. The National Park Service sites also serve as reminders of the country’s darker moments, including slavery, the Civil War, the attempted Indigenous genocide, Japanese concentration camps, and other tragedies. Sam Gennawey, a former urban planner and noted theme park historian, delves into crucial questions about “we the people” of the United States, reflecting on his experiences as he undertakes this journey through America’s national memory. He even volunteers in many parks along the way to gain a deeper understanding of their significance and fuller appreciation for how park rangers have carefully and creatively managed the environment to highlight their stories. Combining travel experiences, insightful commentary, historical accounts, self-reflection, and practical tips for van life, Sacred Landscapes will inspire exploration, encouraging readers to visit and appreciate America’s national parks’ diverse and rich heritage. Take the journey of a lifetime with Sam Gennawey to learn the secrets of a park you thought you knew, or find a new one to explore.
Sam Gennawey, a retired urban planner and historian, embarks on an incredible #VanLife journey spanning six-years, 175,000-miles, and over 380 sacred locations protected by the U.S. National Park Service. In a mix of travelogue, history, and self-reflection, Gennawey seeks answer to crucial questions about “We, the People” in America’s journey.
