The newly designated Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail will link three national parks, seven national forests, several major mountain ranges, and two border-to border national scenic trails. One day it will also be a key link in the coast-to-coast pathway that trail developers have been dreaming about.

Leading kids into national parks has gotten a little bit easier, thanks to the creative genius of Kat and John LaFevre. This couple has come up with a creative hiking guide for youngsters that encourages them to go down the trail in search of items perfect for a scavenger hunt.

South Carolina ETV’s new documentary “Roots in the River: The Story of Congaree National Park” will be aired in association with Ken Burns’ six-part documentary on America's national parks. A sneak preview of clips from both documentaries will be screened for the general public at the Congaree National Park visitor center on Sunday, September 20.

Volunteer cleanup days will be held in a number of parks this year, but one of the most ambitious is scheduled for five days next week at Yosemite National Park. "Yosemite Facelift" will be held September 23-27, and anyone who participates is eligible for some "thank you" perks in addition to the satisfaction of a job well done.