One of the most popular areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Alum Cave area, is on tap for some serious restoration work that will take about two years and result in some occasional trail closures. The result, though, will make the trail safer for hikers and better protect natural resources, according to park officials.

They're big, hard to see until the last minute, can do substantial damage to your vehicle, and likely will wind up dead if you run into them. With longer nights having arrived across the National Park System, it's time to drive a little more carefully and slowly so you don't run into wildlife.

What’s your ideal place to stay for a wintry escape into the National Park System? Is it a cozy cabin with fireplace and ample wood, or perhaps something in a warmer climate with views of sun-kissed turquoise waters? Or does your desire lie somewhere in-between? Fortunately, the park system is large and diverse. Finding that perfect home-away-from-home for a winter adventure may come down to deciding if you like it cold and snowy, or hot and sandy.

Documents entered into a court case over the backcountry fee at Great Smoky Mountains National Park confirm that a private resort outside the park boundaries cleared and maintained a trail inside the park for a number of years.