President Trump's executive order Tuesday calling for a ramp-up in coal production from federal lands and a scrapping of President Obama's Climate Action Plan was quickly criticized by conservation and environmental organizations. Unclear, however, was how the move might directly impact national parks and the National Park Service's climate change initiatives.

Delicate trilliums, glorious columbines, and flamboyant redbuds are some of the harbingers of spring found across the National Park System. This is a favorite season for birds, bees, and photographers. Wildlife is more easily seen in the spring in many parks, too, making the coming three months idyllic for exploring the parks.

Surfcasters have an easier way to reach Cape Point at Cape Hatteras National Seashore on North Carolina's Outer Banks.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be open to the public for a free climb on Saturday, December 10, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.. This event is part of the OBXmas Weekends celebrated with the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau.