Erika’s editorial scope
« Erika focuses on official planning information and logistics for remote parks in Alaska, Hawaii and the U.S. territories. »
Erika covers Alaska, Hawaii and the U.S. territories. Her editorial scope is the logistics of remote parks: access by small plane or boat, short operating seasons, permits and the official information travelers need before departure. This is an editorial profile only; it attributes no personal field story or quotation to her.
Three parks they recommend without hesitation
Guides
12 national parks covered by Erika for American Parks.
Articles
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes: The Hōlei Sea Arch Has Collapsed into the Pacific As of October 1, 2026, the famous Hōlei Sea Arch is gone. Here's what it means for visiting the park's coast. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes: Keanakākoʻi Area Closed After a Surge in Kīlauea Activity Earthquakes and volcanic unrest at Kīlauea's summit have closed the Keanakākoʻi area for safety, until further notice. 
Haleakalā: No Water or Restrooms at Kīpahulu, Pack Your Own On Haleakalā's south coast, the Kīpahulu District has lost its restrooms and water, so come prepared with your own drinking water. Haleakalā: New Bilingual Hawaiian-Language Exhibits Open at the Summit New exhibits in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi and English now greet visitors at the Haleakalā summit visitor center, according to Maui Now. 
Glacier Bay Lifts the Whale Waters Speed Limit Starting October 1, 2026 The 13-knot limit in Queen Inlet and eastern Lower Bay ends October 1, 2026, at 5 a.m. Here's what it means for your boating. 
Denali Shifts Into Winter Mode: The Visitor Center Moves to Mile 1.3 As of September 24, 2026, Denali's visitor services move to the Murie Science Center, and private vehicle access to mile 30 closes soon. Haleakalā Closes Both Districts as Tropical Storm Nolo Approaches Tropical Storm Nolo forces both districts of Haleakalā in Hawaii to close, with sunrise reservations and campgrounds cancelled through the week. 
Fat Bear Week 2026: Vote for the Biggest Bear in Katmai, Alaska Voting for Fat Bear Week 2026 runs through September 29, so watch Katmai's bears live and help crown this year's champion. Fat Bear Week 2026 at Katmai: Grizzly Season Is Almost Here The 2026 Brooks Falls fattest-bear contest is almost here, and fall is still the best time to watch Katmai's grizzlies.