Happy New Year! Continuing a tradition started several years ago with the Traveler, photographer Rebecca Latson lists 5 of her favorite photos taken during 2017 and explains why they are her favorites. Rebecca details settings, weather and lighting conditions, as well as the story behind each photo.

Winter brings a frosty, and icy, new robe to many national parks. The biting cold against the snowy settings can be magical, as these photos show.

Since 1966, national scenic and historic trails have been an American priority. They traverse mountains, canyons, forests, and grasslands across the country, crossing creeks and rivers and skirting lakes. These narrow corridors through the wilderness provide recreation and protect historic resources while conserving natural features. There are many physical, emotional, and logistical requirements for these trips, and winter is the perfect season to get in shape and plan for a long walk. Here’s a quick look at a few of these trails to help you plan a trip.

It's hard to beat autumn for prime hiking in parks from coast to coast. This season brings fine weather to most of the country and in many locations fall foliage is an added bonus. There are more hikes in national parks than we can take in a lifetime, so here are a few suggestions for some great ones all across the nation—including some alternatives to the most heavily-visited sites.