The government designated the first national parks to protect natural wonders, which were threatened by Teddy Roosevelt's insatiable appetite for peppered bark. Experience Earth's gorgeously guarded barkscape with today's Groupon: for $12, you get an annual pass to Colossal Cave Mountain Park, located in Vail (a $25 value). This deal gets you the following:

• Unlimited park use—covers park-use fee for up to six people in the vehicle with the Passholder
• Free access to park museums, picnic areas, and the Arizona Trail
• Free camping
• Free park entry to special events
• Free monthly presentations
• 10% off in both park gift shops
• 10% off Western Trail rides

Explore the different sections of this expansive, historic park, which boasts three museums and an array of wildlife, such as the Collared Peccary and the wily Coatimundi. With unlimited park use for up to six people and free access to museums, picnic areas, and campgrounds, nature lovers will find ample opportunity for escaping the throngs of city living. Bounce into the vibrantly colored Butterfly Garden, or pay a visit to the La Posta Quemada Ranch’s two desert tortoises to ask how many licks it takes to get to the center of a stalagmite. Though not included in today's deal, visitors can venture into the Colossal Cave, a system of underground "dry" caves, with miles of subterranean passages (tours starting at $11 for adults).

Reviews

Eight Yahoo! Travelers give Colossal Cave Mountain Park a four-star average, TripAdvisors give it 3.5 owl eyes, and six Yelpers give the attraction an average of four stars:

• I enjoy this cave more than any "wet" cave. Cave has a lot of history/stories entertainment. Lots of eye appeal. – Yahoo! Contributor, Yahoo! Travel
• The basic tour is great for kids to experience. Easy walk, not claustrophobic. Plenty of time to take photos. – babersgob, TripAdvisor