In the coming days, two of the world’s most powerful symbols of patriotism, dedication, history and grace will meet 21 times. Americans and people around the world will experience our nation’s beauty and heritage as the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Torch visits and honors America’s national parks.

“We want to invite Americans and visitors from around the world to come to the parks and be a part of history,” said Fran Mainella, National Park Service director. “Just imagine standing in Yellowstone National Park, on soft, new snow and seeing the torch approach through Old Faithful’s steam. It’s where the ancient heat of earth’s first national park meets the ancient flame of Olympic spirit.”

There will be National Park Service employees represented among the 11,500 torchbearers taking the flame across this vast land. “We are very excited to have people who have dedicated their lives to caring for these inspirational places carry the Olympic Flame,” said Mitt Romney, president and CEO of the Salt Lake Organizing Committee for the Olympic Winter Games of 2002. “National parks are the essence of this nation’s spirit.”

Because the flame is visiting national parks all across the country, many people can stay close to home and still marvel at the Olympic magic. When the flame gets to Utah, rangers will be ready making it easy for people to plan trips to nearby national parks. Of America’s 385 national parks, there are 22 within a day’s drive of Salt Lake City and a full color guide, published by the National Park Service especially for the 2002 Olympic Winter Games, is a great introduction to all of them.