National Parks Traveler

Things are warming up in Alaska, and that's not a good thing. At Kenai Fjords National Park, the average monthly temperature in December was nearly 6 degrees Fahrenheit above normal, the same departure noticed in November. Just one day in December saw temperatures dip below freezing, as measured at the Seward airport.

Many national parks include inholdings, privately-owned property which poses a potential threat for development that would be detrimental to surrounding park lands. Unfortunately, Congress often fails to appropriate funds in a timely fashion to purchase these inholdings, even if an owner wants to sell to the NPS. In the case of three California desert parks, a non-profit partner is helping to fill this gap.

The rumors are true. Not only has the National Park Service been eyeing the Rose Bowl Parade as a way to help celebrate its centennial next year, but the agency has persuaded the Tournament of Roses Parade to make "Find Your Adventure" the theme of next year's parade.

The many snowshoe companies on the market, with so many models of shoes, give you plenty of options to consider when you are looking for a good pair.