National Parks Traveler

In a move certain to dismay many national park advocates, the National Park Service has proposed to convert to commercial use a number of buildings on Alcatraz, a popular component of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The proposed developments would include souvenir stands, special venues, and lodging facilities.

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By Bob Janiskee - April 19th, 2011 4:08pm

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Glen Canyon NRA Starting Random Boat Inspections to Prevent Mussel Infestation

In a bid to keep non-native and invasive Zebra and Quagga mussels out of Lake Powell, officials at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area are beginning random inspections of boats heading to the reservoir.

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By Kurt Repanshek - June 6th, 2008 2:18pm

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How We View National Parks Today Matters For Tomorrow

We all love America's national park system, but we often have different expectations about local federal parks than about places farther away. Nowhere is this better illustrated than in arguments about Point Reyes National Seashore.

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By Kurt Repanshek - September 10th, 2015 4:50pm

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Ribbon-Cutting Planned for $70,000 "Bio Toilet" at Mount Rainier National Park

From the outside it looks pretty much like any other composting toilet in the National Park System. But the new $70,000 'loo' at Mount Rainier National Park has been deemed worthy of a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

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By Kurt Repanshek - June 5th, 2008 7:49pm

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Hamilton Grange National Memorial Relocation Update

If you're going to be in New York City on Saturday, you might want to head over to the Hamilton Heights section of Harlem to see the Hamilton Grange National Memorial arrive at its new location.

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By Kurt Repanshek - June 4th, 2008 5:59pm

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24 Trails Added to National Trails System

The National Trails System, launched 40 years ago, has gone through a growth spurt courtesy of the addition of two dozen trails in 16 states. The segments added range from the 62-mile-long multiple-use Black Canyon Trail in Arizona to roughly 100 miles of water trail in Florida.

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By Kurt Repanshek - June 4th, 2008 5:34pm

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Park History: Lowell National Historical Park

Lowell National Historical Park tells the story of the farm-to-factory transition, immigrant and labor history, and the emergence of America’s industrial technology. Key attractions include a cotton mill museum, boarding houses, guided tours, special programs, and canal boat rides.

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By Bob Janiskee - June 5th, 2008 3:33pm

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Fallen Climber Rescued on Mount McKinley in Denali National Park

A solo climber who slid nearly 2,000 feet down a steep pitch on Mount McKinley has been rescued by Denali National Park mountaineering rangers. Rangers hoped to transfer the 44-year-old man from the mountain to a hospital once weather allowed.

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By Kurt Repanshek - June 4th, 2008 2:26pm

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National Park Quiz 5: Biggest This or That

Bigger is not always better, but it certainly can be interesting. Many national parks claim bragging rights to the biggest something-or-other. Can you sort them out? Take this week's quiz and see how you measure up. Answers are at the end. No peeking.

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By Bob Janiskee - October 29th, 2011 9:35am

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Yellowstone Officials Now Recommending that Sylvan Pass Remain Open For Snowmobiling

In a nearly complete reversal of their initial decision, Yellowstone National Park officials are now recommending that Sylvan Pass and the park's east entrance be kept open for winter use.