Intrepid Travel’s United by Nature campaign is a powerful call to action aimed at preserving U.S. national parks, which are under threat from proposed budget cuts. These cuts could have devastating effects on iconic landscapes like Yellowstone, Zion, and the Grand Canyon, potentially leading to trail closures, job losses, and environmental degradation. By mobilizing travelers to engage in responsible visitation, advocate for policy changes, and contribute to conservation funding, Intrepid is sparking urgent efforts to protect these national treasures. This campaign encourages collective action to ensure that future generations can continue to experience the beauty and significance of these sacred lands.

United by Nature: Intrepid Travel’s Call for Collective Action to Protect U.S. National Parks

In a sincere open letter, Leigh Barnes, the President of Intrepid Travel’s Americas division, revealed the debut of the company’s latest advocacy initiative, United by Nature. This initiative is designed to inspire responsible travel, raise awareness about the critical challenges facing U.S. national parks, and provide real support for conservation efforts aimed at preserving these iconic landscapes. As national parks face unprecedented challenges due to proposed budget cuts, Intrepid Travel calls on travelers, nature enthusiasts, and concerned citizens to unite in safeguarding these precious natural spaces.

The Growing Threat to National Parks

The national parks of the United States are not only stunning landscapes, they are vital ecosystems, rich in biodiversity, indigenous heritage, and cultural significance. Parks like Yellowstone, Zion, and the Grand Canyon welcome millions of visitors each year, contributing billions of dollars to local economies and serving as spaces for reflection, education, and recreation. Last year, these parks attracted over 331 million visitors, contributing more than $26 billion to the local economies.

However, the future of these sacred lands is at risk. Recent proposals by the U.S. government to slash funding for the National Park Service could have devastating effects on these iconic parks. With more than 75 percent of U.S. wild spaces at risk, budget cuts would lead to job losses, trail closures, damage to habitats, and strained resources for park rangers. The consequences could be severe, with some parks, including Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon, potentially undergoing irreversible changes.

These parks are more than just scenic backdrops; they are home to endangered wildlife, protect significant cultural and historical sites, and represent the stories of countless generations. Their preservation is critical not only for future generations of visitors but for the broader global environment.

Intrepid Travel’s Response: United by Nature

In response to this growing crisis, Intrepid Travel has launched the United by Nature campaign, which encourages travelers to engage with and support U.S. national parks through a combination of responsible visitation, advocacy, and direct contributions to conservation efforts.

Responsible Visitation: Combining Adventure with Advocacy

The heart of the campaign lies in the introduction of Active-ism experiences, a distinctive collection of trips that merge adventure with environmental advocacy. These tours, hosted by U.S.-based climate activists and Intrepid leaders, offer participants the chance to learn about the challenges facing national parks firsthand while taking part in sustainable travel activities. From June 12 to 26, Intrepid is offering a 20 percent discount on all U.S. national park trips departing in 2025, encouraging travelers to experience the parks in a way that supports both the environment and local communities.

Through these Active-ism experiences, participants will gain exclusive perspectives on the environmental, social, and political issues affecting the parks. They will also learn practical ways to advocate for the preservation of these vital spaces, ensuring that their visit goes beyond just sightseeing and has a positive impact.

Sign the Petition: A Call for Legislative Action

In addition to responsible travel, the United by Nature campaign emphasizes the importance of advocating for policy changes that protect national parks. Recently, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation proposing severe funding cuts for the National Park Service, a move that could further destabilize park management and conservation efforts. With the National Park Service already operating with 16 percent fewer staff than before, these cuts could exacerbate the challenges faced by the parks.

To address this, the National Parks Conservation Association has launched a petition to Congress, calling for increased funding for national parks and the preservation of vital services and resources. Intrepid Travel encourages travelers to sign the petition and make their voices heard in defense of these national treasures.

Funding and Philanthropy: A Commitment to Conservation

Intrepid Travel has allocated $50,000 to aid conservation efforts through The Intrepid Foundation, which supports a wide range of environmental initiatives worldwide. In addition to this contribution, Intrepid plans to organize multiple fundraising initiatives aimed at supporting national park conservation. One such initiative includes a trek across the Grand Canyon’s Rim-to-Rim route in October 2025, which will raise up to $100,000 for the Grand Canyon Conservancy.

These efforts highlight the importance of collective action and the role that travel companies, nonprofits, and individuals can play in supporting long-term conservation goals.

Informed Action: Raising Awareness Through Media

Raising awareness is a key component of the United by Nature campaign. Intrepid Travel’s partner, Adventure.com, a leading voice in the adventure and outdoor community, will invest in a dedicated reporter to cover national park stories this summer. This journalist will focus on providing in-depth reporting that sheds light on the challenges facing the parks and holds relevant stakeholders accountable.

Intrepid is also working with a variety of creators, journalists, and influencers to amplify the message of the campaign and encourage more people to visit and support the national parks. Through their platforms, these individuals can inspire others to engage with conservation efforts and make more responsible travel choices.

It Takes All of Us

Intrepid Travel’s United by Nature campaign is driving urgent action to protect U.S. national parks from devastating budget cuts by encouraging responsible visitation, advocacy, and conservation funding.

As the letter from Leigh Barnes emphasizes, protecting national parks is a responsibility that falls on everyone. Intrepid Travel is doing its part to lead the way, but the truth is that the preservation of these sacred lands requires a collective effort. Whether it’s signing a petition, supporting conservation fundraising efforts, or simply visiting a national park responsibly, every action counts.

The future of U.S. national parks depends on the choices we make today. By joining together as a global community and acting in support of these irreplaceable spaces, we can ensure that these parks remain protected for future generations to explore, enjoy, and cherish.

Through campaigns like United by Nature, Intrepid Travel is not just promoting travel; they are inspiring a movement of responsible travelers who are committed to making a positive impact on the planet. Together, we can ensure that the parks we love continue to thrive, offering beauty, inspiration, and solace for years to come.

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