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Good night, Old Faithful. The lodge and other overnight facilities near the world-famous geyser in Yellowstone National Park may soon be closed. A new master plan for the nation's oldest national park calls for gradually converting the scenic area to day use only. Reason: the unique geothermal features in the upper geyser basin need protection, says the National Park Service.

The lodge dates back to the days when visitors came on horseback and needed a place to stay. Since the 1930s, however, the Park Service has realized that a number of the buildings and roads amid these spectacular sights should be removed to less critical areas.

An environmental impact statement has been issued on these plans and the Park Service is seeking public comment.