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Latest by Sarah Joseph

Lava at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

Good news if you’re visiting Hawaii: This stunning attraction has reopened

Due to the trail crew's hard work, trail crews have wrapped up construction on Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park's Sulfur Bank Trail a whole month early.
Man at an overlook during the fall

7 hiking attire myths busted: What to wear and when to layer

Are you believing in a hiking attire lie? Not everything you read on the internet is true, so here are seven hiking attire myths debunked. 
Danish Endurance Merino Wool Hiking socks hanging off a deck

How Merino wool socks can elevate your hiking experience

Wool socks are highly recommended for hiking, so today, we're going to explore why that is as well as give you a few recommendations to get you started. 
Mount Rainier National Park in the winter

Mount Rainier to transform in 2025: How it will affect your trip

Mount Rainier National Park is about to undergo two exciting construction projects in the coming year.
Hiker relaxing in his tent with a great view of the snowy mountains

Winter camping made comfortable: Top tent heater tips and picks

One of the most effective ways to keep your tent cozy is to use a tent heater. However, there can be some safety risks.
Mount Rainier National Park in the winter

Going to Mount Rainier National Park this winter? Here’s what you should expect

Winter is almost here, and Mount Rainier National Park is gearing up for the 2024-25 winter recreation season with updates to its schedule.
A man hiking to a mountain top

Essential camping gear: The best power banks for your trip

Losing charge on your device could mean that you no longer have access to maps or other important resources, so it's important to pack a great power bank.
A view of the grand canyon during the day

The Grand Canyon might be raising campground prices for the first time in 20 years

The National Park Service hasn't raised fees for over 20 years, but as the Grand Canyon has increased in popularity, and so have the operational costs. Here's what that might mean.
Camping views through larch trees in the Enchantments during fall

5 camping rules everyone should know to become a great campground neighbor

Camping is more than just setting up a tent and spending time in nature. By learning unspoken rules of camping, you contribute to a positive outdoor culture.
Woman with a headlamp camping in a winter tent surrounded by snow.

Insulating your tent for winter camping isn’t as hard as you think

In this article, we'll explore the various ways that heat can sneak away from your tent, as well as how to insulate a tent for winter camping.
Hiking Glacier National Park in Montana.

How to plan your Glacier National Park visit for 2025: Reservation deadlines and key rules

Because of the congestion in recent years, the National Park Service has been enacting a reservation system for entry to the park.
grand canyon in the winter

December at the Grand Canyon: Enjoy the beauty without the crowds

Whatever you end up doing, December remains one of the best time to visit the Grand Canyon — especially for introverts. 
Snowy backcountry with ski tracks.

Winter camping gear essentials: What to bring for the ultimate cold-weather trip

It can be difficult to figure out what to pack for a winter camping trip, but fortunately we've put together a great list to get you started.
West ridge of Amphitheater Mountain at Yellowstone National Park in the winter

National parks nationwide waive entrance fees for Veterans Day

This Veterans Day, national parks across the United States invite all visitors to enter free of charge in honor of the service and dedication of America’s veterans
what to do if you see bear poop daniele levis pelusi wxmzt3sie4g unsplash

Seeing bear poop on the trail? Here’s what you should do

Here is everything you need to know about bear poop and what it means if you come across it in the middle of the woods.
Two people hiking the W Trek in Chile, mountains in the background.

Can you get altitude sickness at 5,000 feet? What you need to know

While altitude sickness is rare at 5,000 feet, some people may experience mild, temporary symptoms. Here's what you can do about it.
Man at the top of a mountain wearing a Merino wool sweater

This easy trick tells you which merino wool base layer is right for your activity

Among the essential pieces of gear for staying warm is a merino wool base layer, and one crucial factor to consider when choosing a base layer is its weight.
Man winter camping with a green tent

Your ultimate guide to delicious winter camping meals

Winter camping meals require a bit more preparation, but it’s worth it for the crisp, beautiful experience of camping during the most magical time of year.
Lava at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

This is when you should avoid visiting Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park this month

Currently, flight operations are scheduled for November 12, 15, 20, and 22. Visitors may experience noise and trail closures.
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia

You’re now able to visit most of the Blue Ridge Parkway after hurricane damage

Restoration efforts have been under way at the Blue Ridge Parkway as the National Park Service clears 55 miles of debris from Hurricane Helene.
sediment slide alters water flow at canyonlands national park fishmouth slump 10 29 2024 d ippolito

How a recent sediment slump will affect your trip to Canyonlands National Park

tay informed about current river conditions by checking the Canyonlands National Park website, and heed all safety recommendations while out and about. 
Sunset at "The Window" near Chisos Mountain Lodge at Big Bend National Park

Discover Texas through its stunning national parks

The Lone Star State has a lot to offer when it comes to national parks. There are two official national parks: Big Bend and Guadalupe Mountains. 
least visited national parks three bright yellow tents on red autumn tundra with mountains blue sky  amp survey equipment

Looking for solitude? These are the 3 least visited national parks in America

If you're sick of crowds at your favorite national park, you're not alone. Here are some of the least-visited national parks according to 2023 statistics.
A stand of Giant Sequoia trees in California.

Plan your adventure: The best time to visit Sequoia National Park

So which time of year is the best time to visit Sequoia National Park? No matter what time of year you go, this national treasure has a lot to offer.
A view of the continental divide mountains in Rocky Mointains National Park on a Sunny day

What you need to know about Rocky Mountain National Park road closure

Effective on October 25, 2024, the Trail Ridge Road, also known as U.S. Highway 34, has been officially closed to through-traffic.
where to stay in yosemite national park matthew fournier yedrqd2phy8 unsplash

Where to stay for your unforgettable multi-day trip to Yosemite

Yosemite has so many great lodging options to choose from. Select one that suits your needs, then get ready to explore the most treasured national parks.
Bear 399 and her cub at Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton’s beloved bear Grizzly 399 meets tragic demise in a vehicle incident

This particular bear had captivated wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and visitors from around the globe for nearly three decades, making her one of the most recognized grizzlies in the world.
West ridge of Amphitheater Mountain at Yellowstone National Park in the winter

Now’s your last chance to visit this popular national park before winter closures

Starting November 1, the West, South, and East entrances, along with most park roads, will close to regular vehicles as park officials prepare them for snowmobile and snowcoach season.
California's Channel Islands

Here are the most jaw-dropping national parks in California

These five California national parks provide some of the most awe-inspiring outdoor experiences in the country. There's something for everyone.
A picture of the Yosemite Valley during springtime

Juggling between Yellowstone vs. Yosemite? Here’s where you should go this year

If you've only got enough PTO for one trip this year, there's a chance you might be juggling between Yosemite and Yellowstone.
Super full moon with dark background

Never seen a super moon? This may be our favorite way to experience one

This fall, Effigy Mounds National Monument is offering visitors an opportunity to explore the super moon.
Yosemite National Park water and mountains

Going to Yosemite National Park just got a whole lot easier

Going to Yosemite National Park just got a whole lot easier with the elimination of their reservation system for the rest of 2024.
A view of Lake Crescent at the Olympic National Park.

Going to Olympic National Park? This winterizing adjustment could affect your trip

Olympic National Park crews are set to remove the temporary bridge on the North Shore Quinault Road on October 23, 2024, in preparation for the challenging winter months ahead.
Yellowstone National Park geysers

Why more and more people are flocking to this national park this year

America's first national park, Yellowstone, is set to rank in the top 5 visited national parks this year with a massive 200,000 increase in visitors this year.
Angels Landing in Zion National Park

These are the most beautiful U.S. national parks

From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the peaceful coastlines of the Atlantic, these parks showcase diverse ecosystems, stunning views, and a deep sense of peace for the weary soul.
Road damage at Great Smoky Mountains after Hurricane Helene

Should you visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park? The latest on its hurricane damage

Despite the damage from Hurricane Helene, all visitor centers and most park facilities are operating as usual, and all Tennessee campgrounds are currently open.
Fort Pulaski National Monument

The planned changes at this Georgia attraction are designed to make it more accessible

The National Park Service (NPS) has just unveiled a new development concept plan for Fort Pulaski National Monument aimed at addressing infrastructure challenges.
Jorden Pond at Acadia National Park

Looking to visit Acadia National Park? Here’s when you should go

No matter the season, this national park has something for you. Here's the best time to visit Acadia National Park.
Full dinner grilling on a metal grate over an open campfire with a blurred couple in the background.

3 of the best camping meals for your next outdoor adventure

With just a bit of planning, you can fuel your adventures with delicious meals that are easy to prep, pack, cook.
Airplane wing and purple sky

These are the upgrades coming to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

The National Park Service (NPS) has approved two projects aimed at enhancing the traveling experience for Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).
Chadwell Gap Trail after Hurricane Helene at Cumberland National Historical Park

What Cumberland Gap National Historical Park visitors should know after Hurricane Helene

Staff and volunteers at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park are working tirelessly to assess and address the damage caused by Hurricane Helene.
Fire danger warning at Teton National Park

The fire danger level at this national park has been upgraded to ‘very high’

Grand Teton National Park, Bridger-Teton National Forest, and the National Elk Refuge face high fire danger.
Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon National Park will soon reduce its hours — what you need to know

Grand Canyon National Park will be closing the North Rim for all overnight activities. This closure will begin on October 16, 2024, and will include reduced hours and services.
Fallen Journalists Memorial design

There’s a new memorial coming to Washington, DC — here’s what you need to know

The National Park Service seeks opinions on a new memorial in Washington D.C. that honors the sacrifices made in journalism.
Great Smoky Mountains in October

Great Smoky Mountains opens US 441 after Hurricane Helene (but here’s why you shouldn’t visit)

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, you may want to reconsider your trip to the Great Smoky Mountains due to the record-breaking devastation.
A view of the grand canyon during the day

Here are the best times to visit the Grand Canyon

While the best time to visit the Grand Canyon ultimately depends on your personal preferences, it's definitely worth the trip no matter when you go. 
Utah during the fall

How to experience the magic of Zion National Park in fall

Ready to experience Zion National Park in fall? Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.
Bighorn sheep

What you need to know about Big Bend National Park’s temporary closure

Big Bend National Park's desert bighorn sheep might be in trouble as population dwindles. The NPS will conduct a survey Oct. 9-10 to help protect the animals.
A view between a valley in Yosemite national park during February

Winter, spring, summer, fall: Here’s the best time to visit Yosemite

No matter what time of year you choose to visit, Yosemite National Park has an unforgettable adventure in store for you.
Brown bear in snow

It’s almost time for the weirdest (but best) contest for outdoor enthusiasts: Fat Bear Week

It's time to cast your vote for the chunkiest bear in 2024 as Fat Bear Week returns to Katmai National Park in Alaska!