For my 57th National Park, I ditch my cowboy hat and hiking boots and head into the wilderness of downtown Saint Louis.

Previously known as the Jefferson National Expansion Monument, Gateway Arch National Park (known by most as the “Saint Louis Arch”) celebrates Saint Louis’ role in westward expansion. Defined by its iconic, 630 foot tall stainless steel arch, the monument became a National Park in 2018 after major renovations were done in downtown Saint Louis to both expand and improve the area around it.

Far and away the smallest National Park, the Gateway Arch is more celebration of history than a attempt at protecting wilderness. Here are my photos from my recent trip:

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