Gateway Arch National Park

The Gateway Arch National Park, which was formerly known as Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, serves as a remarkable oasis in the heart of downtown St. Louis. Amid the beautifully forested surroundings that can be discovered within one of the few urban national parks situated west of the mighty Mississippi River, visitors have the wonderful opportunity to explore and learn about diverse plant life that showcases a number of native species. As stunning as the structure itself and its surrounding area are, many people often question: should it truly be considered a national park? At a towering height of 630 feet, the Gateway Arch stands as a breathtaking marvel of modern engineering, by any standards that one might use to measure such an accomplishment. The arch gracefully sits on the banks of the Mississippi River and is specifically designed to commemorate a significant location near where explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark began and concluded their remarkable two-year journey (from 1804 to 1806) through the vast land acquired in the Louisiana Purchase, which was famously bought by President Thomas Jefferson just one year prior to their expedition. In 2017, a bill to redesignate the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial into Gateway Arch National Park was sponsored by Roy Blunt, the senior Republican senator representing the state. However, not even a month later, he reconsidered his stance and argued that it should instead be designated as a National Monument, much like the iconic Statue of Liberty. Ultimately, despite this change of heart, the designation would not be altered, and in 2018, this iconic structure was officially designated as a National Park, further solidifying its significance in American history and culture.

Since my lifelong dream and goal is to visit and explore every single U.S. National Park, who am I to argue with the official designation of what constitutes a national treasure? Naturally, I needed to visit The Gateway Arch to check it off my ever-growing list. Unlike my usual week-long adventures spent deep within a national park, this particular trip was made during a quick weekend visit to St. Louis. I had a vivid vision of capturing this stunning monument bathed in the warm light of sunrise. Standing in front of The Old Courthouse, where the historically significant Dred Scott case was held, I was facing east, ready to witness nature's beauty unfold.

It was a bone-chilling and breezy February morning, quite the opposite of the warmth I usually soak in during my journeys. Miraculously, I found myself as the only person awake, hoping to shoot a breathtaking “landscape” image of this remarkable structure. Although my body felt frozen to the core, and thoughts of returning to my cozy hotel room danced in my mind, I was eventually rewarded with a spectacular sunrise. The stunning colors lit up the vast sky, creating a mesmerizing backdrop. The massive structure reflected the beautiful atmospheric light, truly igniting my creative juices. In that moment, I felt incredibly lucky to have captured this amazing photograph, one that I hold dear to my heart.

Now, the question arises: should this iconic landmark be designated a national park? Personally, I do not think so. The last thing I want to hear after watching a beautiful sunrise at what is typically considered a national park are the blaring sounds of horns honking and the bustling noise of a city full of people waking up. So, was it worth the visit? National park debate aside, I can confidently say 100% yes. The tram ride to the top of the arch was an unforgettable experience. Additionally, the rich history behind the construction of this monumental building was utterly fascinating. So, if you're looking for a unique adventure, make the trip and ensure you check it off your list. You won't regret it!

Location: Gateway Arch National Park, St. Louis, Missouri