Crater Lake National Park saw its most visitors in a quarter-century last year, but that mark might not last long thanks to a partnership that spans the Pacific Ocean. In a nod to increasing tourism from the world’s most-populous country, representatives from Crater Lake traveled to China last week to establish a “sister park” relationship with Wuyishan National Scenic Area.

How are we to act in a national park? That might seem to carry an obvious answer, but it's not always so obvious these days. As different generations, different racial groups, and different cultures enter the National Park System, not all seem out to enjoy the natural beauty on display in the landscape parks simply by walking about and gazing at the setting, hiking or backpacking, paddling or climbing, or watching wildlife.

Firefighting efforts will require a temporary closure of the north entrance to Crater Lake National Park in Oregon, as well as a section of the Pacific Crest Trail, this Sunday evening.

Maps unlock the world in front of us...even if we're not standing right in front of the landscape contained on the map we're gazing at. They allow us to wander through the landscape, cross mountains, ford rivers and streams, and envision campsites in the backcountry. And, in the case of a new eBook, they allow us to look into the past of some national park settings.