Surprising dos and don’ts

Avoid surprises: You could go to jail if you do this in a national park

Millions of people visit US national parks each year, but many are surprised by what they find when they arrive. Even if it feels like we know everything about national parks, there are plenty of surprising, bizarre rules most people have never heard of, and even a few things you never thought would be allowed, but they are. From getting married there to even facing up to six months in prison for getting too close to wildlife, here are 10 curious, little-known facts about our incredible national parks.

In southeastern California, in the Mojave Desert (with a small part in Nevada), sits Death Valley National Park. One of its standout attractions is its saline hot springs, which attract thousands of visitors each year.

But one rule always surprises people: giving birth there is prohibited. Why? While some areas allow bathing, a few visitors apparently thought it might be a good idea to have a baby there. Beyond being unsafe for both mother and child, it could also harm the fragile environment, hence the strange and surprisingly specific rule.

Imagine saying "I do" amid the breathtaking glaciers of Glacier National Park in Montana, or taking wedding photos against the iconic backdrop of Yosemite National Park in California. It seems that many people don’t know that getting married in some US national parks is perfectly legal. It does require permits and some paperwork, though, and you may need to keep the guest list small.

We know, wildlife in US national parks is fascinating, but getting too close can be dangerous—not just for your safety, but for your wallet, too. Approaching or interacting with an animal in a way that makes it feel threatened or agitated can be considered a federal offense and can lead to fines of up to $5,000 and even up to six months in jail.

Many of us feel tempted to pick up a small stone as a souvenir in a place as beautiful as Yellowstone National Park. But there’s a clear rule against it. Not only can you not take rocks with you, but you’re not supposed to move them at all. You can pick one up, feel its texture, and put it back, but rolling stones, throwing them, or stacking them into little piles is prohibited across national parks. The reason is simple: keep the natural landscape exactly as it is.

Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, about 75 miles west of Washington, DC, Shenandoah National Park is known for its scenic views, waterfalls, and miles of trails, including the Appalachian Trail. Since camping is so popular here, there are strict rules about handling human waste to protect the environment. Visitors are advised to go well away from water sources and bury waste properly: at least 3 inches deep, though 6 to 8 inches is recommended. It may sound a bit unusual, but it helps keep the park clean and safe for everyone.

Although visitors to most US national parks are encouraged to protect and not disturb the landscape and wildlife, there are a few things you’re actually allowed to take, namely, wild foods. In some parks, like Glacier National Park and Shenandoah National Park, you can gather small amounts of berries, nuts, or mushrooms for personal use.

When you’re hiking steep or rocky trails, a few scrapes and bruises are part of the experience. But even if that can hurt, here’s something unexpected: it’s best to watch your language. Technically, profanity falls under regulations against disorderly or inappropriate behavior in US national parks. It’s not about offending the wildlife; it’s about maintaining a respectful environment for everyone.

Swearing and unnecessary shouting are generally discouraged in most national parks, but there’s one important exception.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger from certain large wildlife, such as bears or mountain lions, making noise is not only allowed; it’s recommended. In those situations, you should shout, yell, or clap to scare the animal away and protect yourself.

While you can get married in some national parks, you can’t celebrate a birthday in Joshua Tree National Park, at least not with balloons.

All types of balloons are banned in this stunning desert park about 140 miles east of Los Angeles. But why? Balloons can travel miles if they slip away, eventually landing in remote areas where they pollute the landscape and take a long time to break down. Even worse, wildlife may mistake the latex for food, which can be dangerous or even fatal.

As camping is so common in many national parks, there’s a regulation that encourages using only firewood sourced within the park. And it’s not arbitrary; there’s a solid scientific reason behind it. Firewood can carry tiny bugs and organisms you may not even see, and bringing wood from outside can introduce invasive pests or insects that don’t belong in the ecosystem. So, now you know, if you’re building a fire, use local wood provided or gathered where permitted; no need to bring your own.

Step by step

America, the walkable: these 12 cities are great to explore on foot

Surely, almost every single city can be walked, as long as it has sidewalks. But that alone does not make a city walkable, at least not in the sense that we will discuss. A city earns that distinction when its most important and meaningful parts are within walking distance of each other. Several cities and towns in the U.S., beyond the most famous and touristy ones, fall within that desired category. Have you ever been to one of the following 12? Or even live in one of these?

Image: ils Huenerfuerst

Madison is remarkably walkable thanks to its compact layout between two lakes. Downtown streets radiate from the Capitol square, connecting cafés, bookstores, and the university district without long gaps or dead zones.

A single walk can easily take you from lakeside paths to busy sidewalks and quiet neighborhoods. The city feels lively but relaxed, making it ideal for slow, curiosity-driven exploration on foot.

Image: Ricky Beron

Asheville’s downtown packs a lot into a small footprint. Independent shops, historic buildings, galleries, and street musicians cluster tightly, so most highlights sit within a few walkable blocks.

Side streets reveal cozy cafés and local breweries, while gentle slopes keep walks manageable. It’s a place where wandering feels creative and spontaneous rather than planned or rushed.

Image: Chris Winchester

Ann Arbor thrives at walking speed, no pun intended. Its flat, compact downtown is filled with bookstores, theaters, cafés, and restaurants, all arranged in a friendly grid that’s easy to navigate.

The nearby University of Michigan keeps the streets lively but not overwhelming. You can cover most of the city center in an afternoon and still feel like you’ve truly experienced it.

Image: Stephen Mease

Burlington pairs walkability with lake views, a rare combination, indeed. The pedestrian-only Church Street Marketplace anchors downtown with shops, coffee stores, and public spaces.

A short walk downhill leads to Lake Champlain’s waterfront paths, turning a simple stroll into a scenic loop. The city feels compact, friendly, and thoughtfully designed for walkers.

Image: Jenny Sherman

Santa Fe’s historic core is dense and visually cohesive. Adobe buildings, plazas, museums, and galleries are situated close together, encouraging exploration on foot rather than by car.

Walking here feels unhurried and atmospheric. Short distances between landmarks make it easy to wander, pause, and absorb the city’s unique blend of history and culture.

Image: Sina Neshat

Key West is small enough that walking quickly becomes second nature. Old Town’s narrow streets, colorful houses, and shaded sidewalks keep most attractions within easy reach.

From historic homes to waterfront views, everything connects naturally. The island’s compact scale makes wandering intuitive, relaxed, and far more rewarding than driving.

Image: Vincent Yuan @USA

This city’s walkability comes from its well-preserved 19th-century layout. Main Street rises gently along a hillside, lined with historic storefronts, cafés, and scenic viewpoints.

Nearly the entire downtown area can be explored on foot. The pace is unhurried, the streets are compact, and the town feels designed for lingering rather than rushing.

Image: Jack Prommel

Old Town Alexandria is orderly, compact, and, yes, ideal for walking. Brick sidewalks link row houses, small shops, restaurants, and waterfront paths in a tight grid.

Everything flows smoothly from one area to the next. It’s a calm, scenic place where walking feels practical, pleasant, and deeply tied to the city’s character.

Image: Matthew Williams

Boulder’s walkable heart centers on Pearl Street Mall, a long pedestrian corridor filled with shops, cafés, and street performers. It’s lively without feeling crowded.

Side streets branch toward neighborhoods and nearby trailheads, making it easy to combine urban strolling with light outdoor activities. Walking is definitely the best way to explore the city.

Image: Peregrine Photography

Portsmouth packs history into a compact downtown. Curving streets reveal colonial-era buildings, small shops, restaurants, and harbor views, all within a short walking distance.

You can cross the city center in minutes, yet each block feels distinct. The city is perfectly sized for unplanned wandering and slow discovery on foot.

Image: Moses Malik Roldan

This coastal city’s historic district is dense and pedestrian-friendly. Narrow streets connect plazas, forts, museums, and old buildings with very short distances between them.

Walking here feels immersive, as if the city unfolds scene by scene. Its compact layout makes it easy to explore fully without fatigue or confusion.

Image: Bryan White

Missoula surprises visitors with just how walking-friendly it is. Downtown streets link directly to riverfront paths, bridges, parks, and local shops, forming natural walking loops.

The city is small but varied, with green spaces and urban life closely mixed together. Exploring on foot reveals its character more fully than any quick drive ever could.