In the early 1900s, a camera captured the greatness of America’s national parks, preserving stunning glimpses of natural beauty for generations to come. These images offer a rare, timeless look into the landscapes that became the country’s most treasured spaces, showcasing vast forests, towering mountains, and tranquil lakes that have long inspired awe. As we explore these historical snapshots, we’re transported to an era when the American wilderness was still an untamed frontier and the National Park Service was beginning to shape its legacy in protecting these natural wonders for future generations. Take a look back in time at these 17 photos of National Parks from the 20th century.
1. Teddy Roosevelt and John Muir above Yosemite Valley.
Teddy was looking fresh that day.
2. Two brothers posing for a photo in Sequoia National Park.
This photo was taken seconds before a lightning strike.
3. Glacier National Park, 1913.
Photographed are members of the Blackfoot tribe.
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4. Keith Richards at Joshua Tree, 1969.
This photo deserves an award.
5. Majestic views from the Grand Canyon, 1985.
This photo by Joseph Hartman shows how slowly our world changes over time.
6. Art students in Banff National Park, 1957.
Even though Banff is a Canadian park, she’s so close we’ll consider her a part of our own.
7. Yellowstone National Park, 1966.
You’ll only see someone hauling a pop-up camper with a Corvette in the ’60s.
8. Posing with a sign outside Guadalupe Mountains National Park, 1950s.
This is a totally underrated national park.
9. A Honeymoon at Banff, 1952.
A Honeymoon at a National Park is incredibly romantic.
10. A ballerina performing a high kick in Yosemite National Park.
This photo was taken in the early 1900s, and here’s a reminder to never perform stunts like this.
11. Fishing in Waterton Lakes National Park, 1920s.
In the ’20s, they wore nice clothes for fishing.
12. Family picnic, Yosemite.
This family photo was taken in 1963.
13. Spending a day at Spirit Lake as Mount St. Helens watches from a distance.
It would be tough to enjoy a swim with the fear of Mt. St. Helens blowing her top.
14. Soldiers of the 25th Infantry Regiment pose in Yellowstone during a 1,900-mile journey.
This photo was taken in 1896.
15. Did you know Marilyn Monroe was a fan of National Parks?
Canoeing in a skirt doesn’t seem ideal. This photo was from 1953.
16. Two tourists feeding a black bear.
I guess in the ’50s, people didn’t understand you shouldn’t feed a wild animal.
17. Hiking in Banff, 1994.
The color gradient here is so unique.
