Cycling Crusader Pedals 18,000 Miles Across US National Parks, Fighting Climate Change One Pedal at a Time

A 28-year-old transportation advocate has embarked on a daring odyssey that stretches across 18,000 miles. Cycling his way through all the national parks in the United States, he has been trying to preserve the sanctity of the national treasures of the world. Beyond this massive physical feat lies a profound mission, and that is to raise awareness of the looming specter of climate change that could irreversibly alter these iconic landscapes.

As he pedals through Utah’s majestic peaks, his passionate self only tries to underscore the transformative impact of cycling in curbing fossil fuel emissions. Let’s unravel how the young spirit is working towards propelling a more sustainable future for the globe.

Cyclist’s epic journey across US National Parks sparks environmental awakening

Spencer McCullough stepped on the road on his wheels a few months back, in April 2023, and aims at cycling more than 18,000 miles. McCullough worked in Denver, Colorado, as a transportation advocate. McCullough’s ambitious journey stems from a poignant New York Times article titled “What to Save? Climate Change Forces Brutal Choices at National Parks,” which pointed out the stark reality of how the national parks’ authorities have been forced towards triage from conservation grappling with all the negative consequences of climate change. 

About 30% of the forestlands in the southwest US have been depleted by wildfires. McCullough said, “I was struck by how the author concedes that the native tree species of Acadia National Park in Maine are sure to go extinct or be severely diminished within the park in the next 80 years”. He has been planning to cycle through all the national parks in the lower 48 states and has been trying to encourage people to cycle more. He also wants national parks to promote cycling to preserve the national treasures forever.

One man’s quest to transform National Park culture amidst climate crisis

He stated, “I’m doing this ride to try and work with the National Park Service to change the culture of our roads in America,” McCullough further added, “The National Park Service reaches so many Americans yearly and has helped spread ideas like Leave No Trace and Be Bear Aware. They admit that their greatest source of carbon emissions is from people driving to the park, yet they don’t do anything to incentivize people to do anything but that.”

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Through his journey, McCullough not only is raising awareness among minds but is also advocating a cultural shift in road use, pushing the National Park Service to promote cycling. The 28-year-old’s unwavering commitment is nothing short of an inspiration for us as it challenges us to take a step towards creating a better tomorrow.

What are your thoughts on this incredible step taken up by Spencer McCullough? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.

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