National Park Service Teewinot U.S. Department of the Interior Winter 2010-2011 (November–April)

The official newspaper of Grand Teton National Park & John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Grand Teton Guide Memorial Parkway

Panoramic created from photographs taken for 360 Degrees of Grand Teton National Park project.

Welcome to Grand Teton National Park Drive Safely! FEW LANDSCAPES IN THE recent frontier settlement, of which Park Service, Grand Teton preserves WORLD are as striking and more than 300 historic structures a piece of America’s natural memorable as that of Grand Teton remain in the park. and cultural heritage for future National Park. Rising abruptly generations. from the valley floor, the Tetons This spectacular mountain range offer a testament to the power and the desire to protect it resulted While you are here, take a moment and complexity of nature. The in the establishment of Grand Teton to put your cares aside: take a scenic mountains, valleys, lakes, rivers National Park in 1929. Through the drive, celebrate winter by skiing or and skies are home to diverse and vision and generous philanthropy of snowshoeing, and lose yourself to abundant plants and animals. John D. Rockefeller, Jr., additional the power of this place. lands were added, creating the Winter driving can be challenging; park roads may be covered with People have been living in the present day park in 1950. We hope you will be refreshed ice or hard-packed snow; winter shadow of the Teton Range for and restored during your visit, and storms can create white-out driving more than 11,000 years. The human Grand Teton National Park is truly stay connected to this magnificent conditions. Make sure your vehicle history of this area is extensive, a unique place. With thoughtful landscape long after you have is equipped with winter or all-season beginning with American Indian use and careful management, it can returned home. tires and carry tire chains when driving over mountain passes. prehistoric life, to the early Euro- remain so for generations to come. American explorers, to the more As with other sites in the National For updated road information in the park call: (307) 739-3682.

n Roads may be icy or snow- covered, drive below the speed limit As You Drive, when conditions warrant. Keep Them Alive! n Watch for wildlife on the roadway, especially in the evening Annual Impacts of Vehicle and morning.

Collisions with Wildlife n Carry an emergency kit and a shovel in your vehicle. Snow storms $155,000 Personal property damage may occur at any time. Roads may closed for visitor safety. 100 Large animals killed annually Slow n Always wear your seat belt. Down! n Be prepared for changing Slow Down! Stay Alert! weather conditions.

International Visitors Contact Information Contents

Des renseignements en Français sont disponibles Grand Teton National Park Web site http://www.nps.gov/grte/ Trip Planning 2 aux centres des visiteurs dans le parc. Grand Teton National Park News Releases http://www.gtnpnews.blogspot.com Concessioners 2 Safety 3 EMERGENCY 911 Sie konnen Informationen auf Deutsch in den Partners 3 Park Dispatch (307) 739-3301 Besucherzentren bekommen. Park Map 4 Visitor Information (307) 739-3300 Weather (307) 739-3611 Se puede conseguir información en Español en Road Conditions (307) 739-3682 el Centro del Visitante. Backcountry & River Information (307) 739-3602 Climbing Information (307) 739-3604 Accessibility information available at visitor centers and on the Grand Teton Camping Information (307) 739-3603 Web site: http://www.nps.gov/grte. TDD (Telecommunication Device for Hearing Impaired) (307) 739-3400 Snowshoe Hike Reservations/Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center (307) 739-3399

TEEWINOT [Winter 2011] Make the Most of Your Park Visit

December to mid-March. Call the Craig the park and parkway. Jackson Lake is Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center open to fishing year-round except during at (307) 739-3399 to make reservations. the spawn from October 1–November 1. Reservations are accepted beginning Jenny, Leigh, Phelps and Two Ocean lakes December 1st of every year. A $5 per adult, are open year-round. $2 per child donation is suggested for the use of snowshoes. The Snake River is open November 1–March 31 for catch-and-release only Winter Camping trout fishing; from April 1–October 31, Park campgrounds are closed during the trout creel limits apply. From December winter; however, primitive winter camping is 15–March 31, the Snake River floodplain is permitted near the Colter Bay Visitor Center closed to all entry (including fishing) from for $5 per night. Pay at the self-pay station by Moran Junction to Menors Ferry near the restroom. Camp on the snow that covers Moose to protect wildlife. Obtain fishing the parking lot. regulations at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center. Use caution when Snowmobiling wearing waders in or near swift water. Snowmobiling is limited in Grand Teton National Park. Please inquire at a visitor Floating the Snake River Wondering how to make the most of your time in Grand Teton National center for the most up to date snowmobiling The Snake River from Moran Junction to Park? Take a look at the suggestions below to help plan your visit. Stop by information. Menors Ferry is closed to floating from the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center for trail maps, weather December 15–March 31. Only hand- Backcountry Skiing & propelled boats are permitted on the forecasts, and other trip planning assistance. Snowboarding Snake River within the park and parkway. Jackson Hole is world-renowned for both Register non-motorized vessels (fee Safety in the Backcountry Cross-country Skiing its lift-accessed and backcountry skiing charged) at the Craig Thomas Discovery Safety is your responsibility, and depends & Snowshoeing opportunities. Few places provide the and Visitor Center permits desk. On the upon your good judgment, adequate Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing scenery, variety of terrain, ease of access and surface, the Snake River may not seem preparation and constant awareness. are two of the best ways to experience the challenging lines that can be found in the powerful, but only experienced floaters Backcountry users should be in good exhilaration of winter. Watch for wildlife park’s backcountry. should attempt this swift, cold river. physical condition and stick to routes that such as moose, coyote and snowshoe hares, are within your ability and comfort levels. and look for signs of wildlife in the snow. When skiing or snowboarding in the Boating Hypothermia and frostbite can set in national park backcountry you are Motor boats are allowed only on Jackson quickly, and are difficult to treat while Please respect groomed ski tracks responsible for managing and assessing and Jenny lakes. Human-powered vessels in the backcountry. Take preventative avalanche risks. Many skiers and are permitted on Jackson, Jenny, Phelps, measures, such as layering warm clothing by walking or snowshoeing beside snowboarders access the park from the Emma Matilda, Two Ocean, Taggart, and staying well-hydrated, to avoid the them rather than on them. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, but keep Bradley, Bearpaw, Leigh and String Lakes. dangers of cold weather; look for signs in mind that, unlike the ski resort, the A boat permit is required. Obtain permits of hypothermia and frostbite in members park does not do control work and boat regulations at the Craig of your group. Traveling alone can be From November 1 through April 30th, the for avalanches. Always carry an Thomas Discovery and especially dangerous; always give friends or Teton Park Road from the Taggart Lake avalanche beacon, probe and Visitor Center. family a detailed itinerary and stick to that trailhead all the way to Signal Mountain shovel and know how to use plan. Permits are required for all overnight Lodge is open for non-motorized use only. them. Before heading out on backcountry trips and are free of charge and You can ski or snowshoe on this road, your excursion, take a look available at the visitor center in Moose. which is intermittently groomed to provide at the park map on page 4 a packed surface for snowshoeing and to locate wildlife closures. Hiking cross-country touring. Other places to enjoy For current local avalanche Beginning in November most park trails cross-country skiing and snowshoeing forecasts, information and will be partially or completely snow- include Colter Bay, Antelope Flats Road, weather conditions stop covered. As snow begins to accumulate Taggart Lake and Flagg Ranch. by the Craig Thomas in the mountains, route-finding may be Discovery and Visitor difficult; ask at a visitor center for recreation Ranger-guided Center. Call the Bridger- suggestions. Snowshoe Walks Teton National Forest Are you curious about winter ecology Avalanche Center for Climbing & Backpacking or snow science? Have you ever wanted daily forecasts at (307) Permits are required for overnight to experience the park in the winter? A 733-2664. backcountry trips and may be obtained snowshoe walk with a park naturalist is at the visitor center in Moose. Only the perfect way to introduce yourself to Fishing backcountry users with knowledge of winter in the Tetons and to experience Fishing in Grand Teton avalanche safety and proper snow and travel on snowshoes. Naturalists provide National Park is subject to ice equipment should venture onto steep guided snowshoe walks from the Craig Wyoming state regulations. mountain slopes. Check avalanche and Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center daily A Wyoming fishing license weather forecasts before you leave. when snow conditions permit, usually late is required for fishing in

Average Temperatures Park Concessioners & Lodging Moose, WY January High 25.7 ° F Low 1.2 ° F CLIMBING GUIDES NOLS/RMB Dornans Spur Ranch Exum Mountain Guides (800) 710-6657 Open year-round February High 31.1 ° F Low 3.6 ° F (307) 733-2297 www.nols.edu (307) 733-2522 March High 39 ° F Low 11.9 ° F Open year-round www.dornans.com Rendezvous Ski Tours www.exumguides.com April High 49 ° F Low 22.1 ° F (307) 353-2900 Additional May High 60.9 ° F Low 30.9 ° F Jackson Hole Mountain www.skithetetons.com accommodations Guides can be found in the June High 70.6 ° F Low 37.2 ° F (307) 733-4979 The Hole Hiking Experience nearby communities July High 79.8 ° F Low 41.2 ° F Open year-round (866) 733-4453 of Jackson, Wilson, www.jhmg.com www.holehike.com and Teton Village. August High 78.8 ° F Low 39.6 ° F Visit the Jackson Hole September High 68.9 ° F Low 32.2 ° F CROSS COUNTRY WINTER LODGING Chamber of Commerce FACILITIES web site for more October High 55.9 ° F Low 23.2 ° F SKI TOURS Triangle X Ranch information at www. Jackson Hole November High 38 ° F Low 13.7 ° F Mountain Resort Open: late December to late jacksonholechamber. December High 26 ° F Low 1.5 ° F (307) 733-2292 March com. www.jacksonhole.com (307) 733-2183 www.trianglex.com

2 TEEWINOT [Winter 2011] 3 Craig Thomas Discovery & Know Before You Go Visitor Center

WINTER SAFETY PETS  Protect yourself. Know your equipment and During the winter, pets are not allowed away your capabilities and limitations. from plowed roadways or parking areas, except the unplowed portions of the Teton Park and  Avoid skiing or snowshoeing alone. Always let Moose-Wilson roads. Restrain pets on a leash someone know your planned destination, route no longer than six feet at all times. Keep pets and expected time of return. within six feet of roadways; pets are not allowed Stop by the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center on trails or in the backcountry, in boats on  HYPOTHERMIA is a major cause of human located in Moose for help with trip planning and for the Snake River, in boats on lakes other than fatality in mountain country. Carry extra Jackson Lake or in visitor centers. Pet owners information. Learn about the people, wild communities clothing and dress to prevent hypothermia. are required to clean up after their animals. and preservation of this place though engaging exhibits. Never leave a member of your party alone. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the park by walking along the If someone you are with begins to act or talk FIREARMS abnormally, make him or her put on more one-of-a-kind Video River. Wyoming state regulations apply. Carrying or clothing and drink warm liquids. Learn about possessing firearms is prohibited in buildings treating hypothermia before your trip. Children will love the touch-friendly exhibits and can where notice is posted. Firearms may not discover wildlife hidden throughout the visitor center. Ask for a winter  Be prepared for sudden changes in the be discharged in a national park, except by Junior Ranger activity book or our winter discovery backpacks. Watch the WEATHER. Snow and weather conditions may permitted individuals during legal hunting Discovery Communications, Inc. park documentary in high definition. See how vary considerably throughout the day and by seasons. mountaineering has evolved in the Teton Range and learn how to place climbing elevation. Check the weather forecast before you venture out, and above all use common protection gear on a rock wall interactive display. CAMPFIRES sense. Prevent fires by following regulations. Get inspired by one of the greatest views in the park from the lobby. Free  Be alert for AVALANCHE hazards, especially Backcountry campfires are not permitted except wireless internet service is also available. The visitor center is open daily year- in mountain canyons and along ridge tops. by permit on Leigh and Jackson lakes. Always make sure your campfire is completely out. round, but closed on December 25th. The visitor center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 Inquire about current and forecasted avalanche hazard conditions at a visitor center. Call the p.m. from November 1, 2010 through April 30, 2010 (the center closes at 2 p.m. Bridger-Teton National Forest Avalanche Center on Nov. 25th and Dec. 24th). for daily forecasts at (307) 733-2664.

Park Partners

Park partners help Grand Teton Association Grand Teton National Park Teton Science Schools The Murie Center University of Wyoming/ accomplish park goals P.O. Box 170 Foundation P.O. Box 68 P.O. Box 399 AMK Research Station by supporting important Moose, WY 83012 P.O. Box 249 Kelly, WY 83011 Moose, WY 83012 P.O. Box 3166 (307) 739-3403 Moose, WY 83012 (307) 733-4765 (307) 739-2246 Laramie, WY 82071-3166 projects, programs and www.grandtetonpark.org (307) 732-0629 www.tetonscience.org www.muriecenter.org www.uwyo.edu visitor services. www.gtnpf.org

We invite you to become an annual member-at-large entitled to a 15% discount Yes! I would like to be a part of the on purchases at all GTA visitor center outlets, as future of Grand Teton National Park. well as on catalog and web site orders. Many cooperating

association stores nationwide offer reciprocal discounts. Name: Address: $35 Individual Annual Member with discount privileges City: State/Zip Code: $50 Associate Annual Member with discount privileges and Email: Phone: commemorative Grand Teton canvas bookbag Please include your check made out to the Grand Teton National Park Foundation, or supply the following credit card information. Name: Address: Credit Card Number Exp. Date City: State/Zip Code: Date of Application: Phone: Visa Mastercard Cardholder’s Signature Paid by Cash Check Credit Card Card Number Exp. Date Grand Teton National Park Foundation • P.O. Box 249 • Moose, WY 83012 Grand Teton Association • P.O. Box 170 • Moose, WY 83012 (307) 732-0629 • www.gtnpf.org (307) 739-3403 • www.grandtetonpark.org

GRAND TETON ASSOCIATION When you make a purchase at an Association GRAND TETON NATIONAL Grand Teton National Park. The foundation Grand Teton Association was established in 1937 bookstore, profits are returned to the park PARK FOUNDATION relies solely on the generous contributions in the form of donations to support park of private individuals, foundations, and as the park’s primary partner to increase public The Grand Teton National Park programs. Your purchase also supports the corporations. If you would like to become a understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment Foundation was established in publication of this newspaper, books, and the member of the Grand Teton National Park of Grand Teton National Park and the Greater 1997 as the only private, nonprofit free educational handouts available at visitor Foundation please fill out the coupon above Yellowstone area. Since that time, the Association organization dedicated exclusively centers and entrance stations. and return it with your donation. has been aiding the interpretive, educational, and to raising money for projects that research programs. protect, preserve, and enhance

2 TEEWINOT [Winter 2011] 3 Park Map

Yellowstone National Park LEGEND South Entrance Ranger Station Turnout or overlook Restrooms Unpaved road Flagg Ranch Grassy Lake Road Lodging Distances are shown between markers Food Service No motorhomes or trailers Gasoline Non-motorized use only (Nov. thru Apr.) JOHN D. 7.5 mi ROCKEFELLER, JR. Store Winter closures for wildlife protection

MEMORIAL Snake River Picnic Area Closed to Wheeled Vehicles To Ashton PARKWAY North Do not use this map for backcountry hiking or skiing. Purchase USGS topographic maps at a visitor center.

5 Kilometers

5 Miles

Teton 16 mi 16 Wilderness GRAND TETON Leeks NATIONAL PARK Marina

Colter Bay

JACKSON LAKE

Caribou-Targhee Jackson Lake Junction 5 mi National Forest

Moran Entrance Station Mt. Moran Signal 3 mi 12,605 ft. Signal Mountain Mountain To Dubois Summit

Area closed Leigh Lake Dec. 15 thru Apr. 1

8 mi Teton Park Road Grand Targhee Resort Apr. 1 Ski Area

String Lake one-way North Jenny Lake Junction

Area closed Dec. 15 thru Jenny 4 mi Snake River Lake Triangle X Ranch Teton Canyon (Road not plowed in winter) TETON RANGE Grand Teton 13,770 ft. 8 mi 18 mi Driggs Bradley Lake Area closed Dec. 15 thru Apr. 1 Taggart Bridger-Teton Lake Cottonwood Creek National Forest Taggart Lake Trailhead ANTELOPE FLATS

Areas closed Static Peak Antelope Flats Teton Science Dec. 15 thru 11,303 ft. Moose Entrance Road Schools Apr. 1 Station Craig Thomas Discovery Prospectors Mountain & Visitor Center 11,241 ft. Dornans Gros Ventre Road Phelps Mt. Hunt Lake Area closed Unpaved road not 10,783 ft. Dec. 15 thru plowed in winter Apr. 1 Gros Ventre Laurance S. Kelly Slide Wilson RoadRockefeller 8 mi Preserve Victor Jackson Hole Moose- Airport

Teton Gros Ventre River Village Gros Ventre Junction National Elk To Idaho Falls Bridger-Teton Refuge

National Forest Wilson Rd.

Moose -

5 mi Teton Pass 10,783 ft.

Wilson

Jackson

Road Information

As you Drive Keep Them Alive Accessible Roads During Winter Seasonal Road Closures Every year drivers kill more than 100 large The park’s main roadways, Highway 89/191 Much of the Teton Park Road (also called animals, causing property damage and and Highway 26/287, are plowed and open the inner park road) and the Moose-Wilson personal injury. Drive at or below all posted for winter travel from the town of Jackson Road are closed to vehicles during the winter speed limits, and drive cautiously during to Flagg Ranch near Yellowstone National months. See the map for additional seasonal dawn and dusk when animals are most Park’s south boundary. Park roads are often road closures. The unplowed section of active. Moose, deer, elk, bison, wolves and snow-covered and icy. Be prepared for winter the road from Taggart Lake parking area to grizzly and black bears cross roadways and driving conditions. In addition, wildlife can Signal Mountain—a distance of 15 miles—is can be especially difficult to see at night. linger near park roads, so be alert, and drive open to non-motorized use only (skiers and slowly for their safety and yours. snowshoers).

TEEWINOT [Winter 2011]