Almost like stepping stones in a stream, national parks play a key role in protecting migratory species as they move back and forth between the United States and Central and South America. They are in many ways both resting areas and protected areas where species can recharge as they migrate.

What's in a number? When it reflects visitation to national parks, it's not always as obvious as it might seem.

It's going to be a great weekend in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, both because of the Wildflower Pilgrimage and because the Cades Cove Loop Road is reopening after a substantial reconstruction of the road.

While National Parks Week is just about spent, with one glorious weekend to go, that doesn't mean an end to enjoying the national parks. In fact, the National Park Service and National Park Foundation have put together a list of ways to enjoy the parks.