A Day Among Giants: Healing and Exploration with TAPS Families

Eleven families enjoyed a day at Sequoia National Park, thanks to a collaboration between the National Park Trust, National Park Service (NPS), and Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). The day began with a ranger-led interpretive talk at the Giant Forest Museum, where families learned about the history and significance of the towering sequoias. They then hiked among these majestic trees in the Giant Forest, marveling at their immense size and beauty. The adventure concluded with a scenic lunch at Beetle Rock, offering breathtaking views and a perfect end to a memorable day.

National Park Trust and TAPS have formed a meaningful partnership that creates healing outdoor experiences for families who have lost a loved one due to military service. These experiences offer a chance to revitalize their outlook on life and connect with their local communities by getting outside, being active, and having fun.

This event at Sequoia National Park is the first of four events at national park sites taking place in 2024. The three other event locations will be New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia, Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. These experiences provide those grieving the death of a military loved one with the opportunity to get outdoors in our public parks, lands, and waters.