The first day of fall kicks in not just more colorful forests, but at Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah some operational changes and some construction projects visitors should be aware of.

Thanks to all those who donated to National Parks Traveler in our recent fundraising drive. For those who donated $50 or more, and requested a Traveler water bottle, they shipped today, September 21.

National parks in one state are subject to wildfire smoke wafting in from other states on fire. This smelly, thick haze affects more than just one's ability to view the scenery. It also impacts human health along with the health of wildlife and plant life. But how? After a recent trip into Mount Rainier National Park, where smoke from wildfires in California and Oregon hid much of the landscape, turned the sky and atmosphere a dirty yellow, and smelled strongly of burning wood, photographer Rebecca Latson tried to find some answers to her questions.

In a decision that could lead to litigation, the National Park Service is moving to preserve the ranching industry at Point Reyes National Seashore in California for two more decades. While the hefty decision document also calls for maintaining the seashore's free-ranging Tule elk herds, it also allows for the killing of elk near livestock operations.