The Sesquicentennial of the Civil War has also brought renewed interest in the Underground Railroad, and a talk this Saturday at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park will examine an intriguing subject: "The Underground Railroad Quilt Code - Truth or Myth?"

The deadline in Traveler's national parks essay contest is March 1. Have your children entered? Winners get free lodging in a national park and great gear!

With Congress struggling to come to terms on a federal budget, should the politicians extend the Continuing Resolution to keep the national parks and the federal government operating beyond March 4, or should they let the government shut down?

For the past 32 years a Colorado blue spruce planted on the Ellipse in Washington, D.C. has served as the official National Christmas Tree. The tree was a victim to gusty winds last weekend and will have to be replaced.