PARK ETIQUETTE

There are lots of little things all visitors can do to help make everyone's stay in national parks more enjoyable. We prefer to think of them as niceties rather than rules, ways of being polite to the other people who enjoy coming to the Parkway as much as you do.

Quiet hours are in effect from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. Camping out can be a real adventure and a special thrill for kids. Just remember though that most visitors come to the campgrounds for a little peace and quiet.

• Always make sure your fire is completely out before leaving. What would camping out and picnicking be without cook-outs over an open fire? The taste of grilled hamburgers and hotdogs can't be beat. But hot summer days soon dry out the forest, making wildfire a real threat to the Parkway.

• Be aware of faster drivers and pull off at an overlook to let people by. Although the speed limit along the Parkway is 45 m.p.h. (35 m.p.h. in developed areas), some visitors prefer to take their time. If this is your style, great, but it doesn't suit everyone.

• Remember to share the road. Cars aren't the only vehicles allowed on the Parkway. Bikes are very popular because of the great views and low speed limits. So if you're in a car, always be on the look-out for bike traffic.

• Please leave things as you find them. The Parkway boasts many old cabins, interesting rock formations, and other historical and natural wonders. While it may be tempting to leave a reminder of your visit, remember that any kind of vandalism is ugly and destructive, and ruins the site for others.

• Don't forget to Recycle. Picnics usually produce a lot of trash. You know to use the bins at overlooks and picnic areas for your trash, but did you know that the Parkway also recycles cans and bottles? Look for the bins with the recycle symbol.

• It's best to find the nearest overlook to park your car. The Parkway is a beautiful road to drive, and you'll probably see many places that you want to explore further. If you do decide to park on the grass, your car should be far enough off of the road so you can enter and exit without stepping into traffic.

• Stick to the established trails on your hikes and save everyone some trouble. For anyone who likes to hike, the trails along the Parkway can provide hours of fun. But a few steps off the trail to go exploring can lead to problems, for you, the rangers, and the wildlife.

• Bicycle only on roads. Some visitors crave excitement and bypass hiking for sports like rock and ice climbing, cross-country skiing, and mountain biking. Bikes are welcome on the roadway but are too hard on the trails.