National Parks Traveler

Expect some access restrictions at Point Reyes National Seashore beginning Monday. That's because the harbor seal pupping season is upon us, and the national seashore boasts the "largest mainland, breeding colony of harbor seals in California."

What can you glean from glancing at a map? If it's a road map, folks will look for routes to their destinations, interesting sidetrips, population centers. Topographical maps can provide rich details of landscapes and help us navigate through them. In this episode from Yosemite Nature Notes, Producer Steven M. Bumgardner introduces us to the map wonders of Yosemite National Park. There's even a cameo appearance by Ken Burns!

A group of rafters heading down the Colorado River through Grand Canyon National Park received an unexpected helicopter lift when their boat became stranded on a rock garden in the river near Crystal Rapid. This was no quick and easy rescue, though, as it took 14 rangers, with air support, more than a day to get the rafters heading back downstream.

The National Mall is often described as the nation's front yard, and the lawn has bare spots, the walks are cracking, the porch is sagging. It's time for a serious facelift, the NPS is working on a plan to restore the Mall, and your comments are welcome.