A man enjoying the Fourth of July with his son at Mount Rainier National Park died when a crust of snow covering Edith Creek collapsed and sent him into the icy water, which swept him 30 feet downstream beneath the snow.

Claims by Yellowstone National Park Superintendent Dan Wenk that a preferred winter-use plan will result in a cleaner, quieter park open to more visitors seem to be contradicted by data contained in documents upon which the plan is built.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways officials have instituted fire restrictions for their park, prohibiting all open fires, including campfires. Fires in campstoves and in grills with lids will continue to be permitted for the time being.

It's the heart of summer, the hottest time to visit Petrified Forest National Park, but that doesn't mean you still can't enjoy the Long Logs and Agate House trails near the park's south entrance. You just have to be strategic in planning when to do these companion hikes.