If you live relatively near to Acadia National Park, you just might want to make a notation for Dec. 6 on your calendar. That's the day the park kicks off a 50-percent-off sale for its annual pass.

Restoring backcountry patrol cabins. Buying GPS units to help with search and rescue missions. Caretaking of the exhibits at the Museum of the National Park Ranger. These are some of the projects the Yellowstone Park Foundation hopes to pay for with its Yellowstone Ranger Fund.

A plan to improve the area around the Bright Angel Trailhead in Grand Canyon National Park is now available for public comment.

Slipping away from the Lewis Lake boat dock in Yellowstone National Park opens the door to a backcountry adventure few parks can match. Paddling, hiking, and hot springs are just part of the package.