Efforts by Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives to exact spending cuts in return for agreement to raise the nation's debt ceiling could have crippling impacts on the National Park Service.

If you’ve ever visited Lassen Volcanic National Park, you’ll probably have hiked the Bumpass Hell Trail. It’s one of those must-do hikes. But that’s not the only trail you should tackle. Contributing photographer and editor Rebecca Latson hiked Cinder Cone Trail in the more remote northeastern portion of the park and firmly believes the rewards are worth the effort.

Despite National Park Service Director Chuck Sams' pledge to focus on raising the morale of his vast workforce, the latest survey of government agencies shows park employees don't feel they're getting the recognition they deserve and continue to be concerned over the Park Service's ability to meet its mission.

A survey last summer of more than 500 visitors to Arches National Park found strong support for a reservations system to manage visitation at the highly popular park in southeastern Utah.