For the last 31 years, Yosemite Park Ranger Laurel Boyers has had your dream job. She's been working for the park, patrolling and managing the wilderness backcountry of Yosemite. In a few days, she'll retire. Our story links to a WildeBeat audio program.

The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has just jumped into podcasting, a welcome addition for those of us who love to listen to an insiders perspective on parks. The first program is with an interpreter in Yosemite National Park. It is a quality program, the likes of which we are sure to hear more of, in the months to come.

Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross, knew how to heal the wounded, but surfing the web was probably not something she did often, especially considering she died in 1912. Well, fortunately for us, the modern day web surfers of the world, the Park Service has set up a new online exhibit which provides an interactive look at her home in Glenn Echo.

Today (Jul 31) is World Ranger Day, an international day of recognition for park rangers around the world. In honor of the day, a new movie called "The Thin Green Line" will premiere around the nation and world to celebrate the work of rangers everywhere.

Ever hike to the top of a volcano? Typically, this is a pretty tough activity, but at Lassen Volcanic National Park, this goal can be accomplished through a 2.5 mile strenuous hike. It's a pretty popular activity, but, if you'd like to avoid the crowds, listen to this story about backcountry hiking opportunities within Lassen Park.

Engaging audio program about a solo hiking trip in Denali National Park in which the hiker (a photographer) encounters unexpected challenges on his way back to civilization.

A recent entry on the WildeBeat about the natural soundscapes present within our parks, has me inspired to share my experience and equipment list used to capture an 'audio snapshot' of my own visits.