Besides hiking, camping, picknicking and birdwatching American national parks are a popular place to kill yourself.

The Associated Press reports that since 2008 began, at least 18 people have committed suicide in the national parks. Al Nash, a spokesman at Yellowstone, where five suicides have been recorded since 1997, explains:

Parks hold a special place in people's hearts. There are some individuals who feel it's important to have that kind of connection in those final moments.

Biology professor Jerry O. Wolff disappeared into Utah's Canyonlands National Park last month after mailing a letter to family and friends:

I am gone in a remote wilderness where I can return my body and soul to nature. There is no reason for anyone to look for me, just leave me where I am.

That was the last Wolff was heard of and park officials assume he committed suicide.