Geological mapping requires a high level of skill in Earth science, willingness to go into remote wilderness areas and endure rugged conditions, patience, perseverance, and curiosity. Today, mapping is aided by satellite and airborne data, and an ability to drive close to most areas of geological interest. But imagine being a geological mapper in the 1870s!
When the waterline breaks — as happens almost monthly on the South Rim and canyon floor of Grand Canyon National Park — the canteen at Phantom Ranch and other park restaurants break out disposable plates and plastic utensils instead of dishware requiring water to wash.
When the campgrounds open in Glacier National Park in Montana later this year, the Avalanche Campground will again be available, while the Avalance, Two Medicine, and Many Glacier campgrounds will be available via advance reservation only through Recreation.gov.
If you're planning to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park this year you're going to need a "parking tag" if you plan to stop for longer than 15 minutes as you explore the park.
Much is left up to the imagination when you watch koholā (humpback whales) from shore on Hawaiʻi Island. You will see plenty of blows in the distance, as well as tail and pectoral flipper slaps. You may luck into spyhopping or a dramatic breach — but you need binoculars or a spotting scope to really see what’s going on. Mostly, you have to be patient and fill in the visual blanks.
The National Park Service has awarded a roughly $33 million contract for demolition of outdated structures and construction of new maintenance facilities at Acadia National Park headquarters. Funded by the Great American Outdoors Act, the project is expected to provide park staff with enhanced facilities to better serve visitors and protect park resources.
The National Park Service recently issued a prospectus for the operation of one of its most unusual lodging facilities, Kettle Falls Hotel in Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota. The prospectus also involves such associated services as retail, boat rental and portage, marina services, guest transportation, and food and beverage service. The hotel is accessible only by boat or float plane and is the only Park Service lodging facility within the park. Transportation for guests can be scheduled when room reservations are made.