YELLOWSTONE To day Official Newspaper of Yellowstone National Park Winter 2002/2003

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Contents Enjoy Yellowstone’s Winter Wonderland Safely ACTIVITIES Center Section General Safety ...... 2 Snow and cold combine with natural automobile travel is the Gardiner, to the laws of the operator’s state of MAP...... Back Cover wonders to create an incomparable winter MT–Cooke City, MT road (North residence and have a muffler in good Park Issues...... 8 experience in Yellowstone. Prepare yourself Entrance to 7 miles east of the Northeast working order. (See page 6.) Services ...... 10–11 well to enjoy your winter visit safely. Entrance). Snow tires or chains are ◆ Operators must have a valid state motor always recommended and at times may Snowmobiling ...... 6 ◆ Use extra care near canyons, waterfalls, vehicle driver’s license. be required. Skiing & Snowshoeing...... 5 hydrothermal areas, overlooks, and ◆ Before beginning your trip—whether on wildlife. ◆ Snowmobiles and snowcoaches are Hydrothermal Areas in Winter....7 snowmobile, skis, or snowshoes—obtain ◆ Watch your children. Your hand and permitted only on groomed roadways; an up-to-date road and weather report. Winter Highlights...... 3 sidehilling and off-road travel are illegal. voice may be too far away once your Additional tips for safe snowshoeing, ◆ Winter Safety Tips ...... 4 child leaves your side. Privately owned and operated snow- skiing, and snowmobiling are on Winter Wildlife ...... 7 ◆ The only road open for year-round mobiles must be registered according pages 4–6.

International Der Yellowstone National Park hat gewisse Gefahren. Sehen Sie Seite 2. Sie können Park Information: 307-344-7381 Visitors Information auf Deutschan den Besucherzentren und Parkeingangen Road Updates: 307-344-2117 Le Parc national de Yellowstone présente bekommen. des risques particuliers. Regardez la page 2. TDD: 307-344-2386 Des renseignements en francais sont Existen peligros únicos en el Parque www.nps.gov/yell disponibles aux centres des visiteurs dans le Nacional Yellowstone.Vea página 2. Se parc et aux kiosques d’entreé. puede conseguir información en español en los Centros de Visitantes y las entradas. Emergency—Dial 911

Printed on recycled paper with soy ink 2 You Need to Read This Page

Winter 2002/2003

CALDING ATER Watch for Ice on Roads and Trails CAUTION: S W Only two roads in the • They are maintained • Speed limit for all Trails and overlooks Beautiful but deadly: Yellowstone’s hydrothermal park are plowed: only during daylight vehicles, including may be snow-covered, features can kill you. Their waters are frequently near 1 Between the North hours and may close snowmobiles, is 45 icy, and dangerous. or above boiling. The crust surrounding them is thin Entrance and Cooke during severe storms. mph (73 kph), lower Obey trail closures. and breaks easily, and often overlies scalding water. City, Montana • Expect snowpack, ice, where posted. Proceed cautiously at frost heaves, drifts. People have died in these pools. 2 From Mammoth Hot • Do not stop on the road all times and watch • Snow tires or tire and block traffic when your children. ◆ You must stay on boardwalks and designated Springs to the parking chains may be required area at the Upper viewing wildlife or trails. They exist to protect you and to preserve and are always scenery. Please use delicate formations. Terraces recommended. See map on back page. pullouts. ◆ Keep your children close to you at all times; make sure they understand the danger. Attention Anglers Hypothermia is a rapid loss of body heat that can cause death ◆ Pets are prohibited in hydrothermal areas. The fishing season in Yellowstone National Park closed on the if not treated. Early warning signs include shivering, slurred ◆ Swimming or bathing is prohibited in hydro- first Sunday in November and reopens the last Saturday in May. speech, memory lapses, drowsiness, and exhaustion. Know these thermal pools or streams where water flows warning signs and how to treat them. Seek help as soon as you entirely from a hydrothermal spring or pool. Avalanches can. ◆ Where swimming is allowed, swim at your own Avalanches occur throughout Yellowstone on slopes 25º or Frostbite can permanently damage tissue and affect use of risk. Yellowstone’s natural waters tend to be steeper. Be especially alert for them if you are snowmobiling fingers, toes, nose, ears, or other extremities. Protect yourself very hot or very cold—immersion in extreme over Sylvan Pass or if you are skiing or snowshoeing in the back- with warm, layered clothing and frequent stops to warm up. temperature water can be fatal. Hot water can country. It is your responsibility to check conditions before also harbor an organism known to cause a fatal beginning a trip, and to know the warning signs, safety rules, Lost & Found meningitis infection. Exposing your head to hot and how to respond should you or one of your party be caught Call 307-344-2109 to report or retrieve lost items. water by any means—immersion, splashing, or in an avalanche. See page 4 for more information. touching your face—increases your risk of Pets burns and infection. Obtain more information Backcountry Permits Pets must be leashed. They are prohibited on all trails, in the at any ranger station or visitor center. Permits are required for overnight backcountry use. Obtain backcountry, and in hydrothermal basins. Pets are not allowed them in person up to 48 hours in advance from any ranger more than 100 feet from a road or parking area. Leaving a pet station. Rangers will provide information on weather, trails, unattended and/or tied to an object is prohibited. snow conditions, and any special winter hazards. Backcountry winter campers must carry stoves and fuel for cooking and Winter Camping STAY AWAY FROM WILDLIFE melting snow; no wood fires allowed. Winter car-camping is available only at Mammoth Campground (accessible via the North Entrance). Heated restrooms and water Yellowstone is not a zoo and the animals are not tame. High Altitude are available; wood fires allowed. No overnight camping or stop- Do not approach any wildlife. View them from the Most of the park is above 7,500 feet (2,275 m). Allow time to ping allowed outside of this designated campground. Primitive safety of your vehicle. If an animal reacts to your pres- acclimate and drink plenty of liquids. Be aware of your physical winter camping is available at Old Faithful on a limited basis and ence, you are too close. limitations. Don’t overexert; drink plenty of water to forestall the at backcountry sites. No facilities. Permit required. dehydrating effects of the park’s dry climate. Stop and rest Keep your distance and stay safe—and you will be Weapons rewarded by seeing more of an animal’s natural behav- frequently. No firearms or weapons, including state-permitted concealed ior and activity. This is especially important in winter: Hypothermia and Frostbite Cold and deep snow can make finding food difficult weapons, are allowed in Yellowstone. Unloaded firearms may be Know the warning signs of hypothermia and frostbite and treat- and any extra movement costs animals precious energy. transported in a vehicle when the weapon is cased, broken down ment for both. They occur when you are exposed to cold tem- or rendered inoperable, and kept out of sight. Ammunition must Each year park visitors are injured by wildlife when they peratures, wind, and when you lack sufficient layers of clothing be placed in a separate compartment of the vehicle. approach animals too closely. You must stay at least and appropriate gear. 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from all other animals—including bison, elk, bighorn sheep, deer, moose, wolves, coyotes. BISON are unpredictable and dangerous; they weigh up AVOID These Illegal Situations to 2,000 pounds (900 kg) and sprint 30 miles per hour (48 kph). Visitors are injured every year. •speeding (radar enforced) •violating camping natural (flowers, antlers, • calling in elk by imitating regulations & rules etc.) or cultural (artifacts) their calls or using buglers COYOTES quickly learn habits like roadside feeding. • driving while intoxicated features This may lead to aggressive behavior toward humans (open container law •having pets off leash or on • imitating wolf howls and can increase the risk of the coyote being poached enforced) trails and boardwalks •violating fishing regula- Law enforcement rangers or hit by a vehicle. • leaving detachable side •littering tions strictly enforce all park mirrors attached when not •feeding or approaching regulations to protect you BEARS may be out in early and late winter. Be alert for •swimming in hydrothermal pulling trailers wildlife and the park. tracks and sign; do not approach carcasses. If you pools observe a bear or bear sign, report it to a park ranger as •traveling off-road by •traveling off boardwalks in •spotlighting elk, deer, or soon as possible. vehicle or bicycle hydrothermal areas other wildlife (viewing ani- • improperly storing food mals with artificial light) RAVENS have learned to unzip and unsnap packs of •removing or possessing snowmobilers and other visitors. Do not allow these birds access to your food. Know These Numbers WILDLIFE HAVE THE RIGHT OF WAY ◆ If you are snowmobiling, follow the guidelines on page 6. 25 100 45 911 ◆ If you are skiing or snowshoeing, stop or detour = the number of YARDS = the number of YARDS = the speed limit = the number to around animals. you must stay away from you must stay away from a in the park call in an all wildlife—except . . . bear unless otherwise posted emergency Welcome to Winter 3

Winter 2002/2003

graphic removed for faster loading graphic removed for faster loading NPS photo/Mark Marschall NPS photo/Mark

Facts & Tips

◆ Area: approximately 2.2 million acres or 3,472 NPS photo square miles in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho Geysers & Hot Springs Lake Area ◆ Elevations: 5,300 ft (1,608 m) at the North An unparalleled array of hydrothermal phenomena— Yellowstone Lake is North America’s largest high-altitude Entrance to almost 11,358 feet (3,640 m) at geysers, hot springs, mudpots, and steam vents—are lake. During winter, its 136 square miles (354 sq km) of Eagle Peak on the east boundary; most roads evidence of a volcanic past and the active earth beneath surface freeze solid except for isolated spots of hydro- lie at 7,500–8,000 feet (2,275–2,427 m) our feet. Many of the most famous features can be found thermal activity. Freeze-up is a gradual process in such a ◆ Speed limit: 45 mph (73 kph) or lower where between Mammoth Hot Springs and Old Faithful. large body of water. Water temperature gradually drops, posted Hydrothermal areas include Mammoth Hot Springs, cold water sinks as warm water rises, and the process con- Norris Geyser Basin, Fountain Paint Pot, Midway Geyser tinues until the water is uniformly cold enough to freeze. ◆ Yellowstone Lake: about 110 miles (170 km) of Basin, and the Old Faithful area. West Thumb Geyser Basin Although shallow lagoons or bays may freeze earlier, shoreline and approximately 136 square miles is 17 miles east of Old Faithful; Mud Volcano is north of (354 sq km) of surface area widespread freeze-up takes place after a subzero night. On Yellowstone Lake. average, the lake is ice-locked by December 25. Between ◆ Hydrothermal features: About 10,000 hydro- In winter, the clash of extreme heat and cold creates freeze-up and the accumulation of insulating snow, solar thermal features are known, including more extraordinary beauty—ghost trees, ice cones, eruptions radiation causes heating and expansion of the vast sheet. than 300 geysers seemingly amplified in the frigid air to several times their The lake “sings” as ice creaks, pops, and groans. ◆ Winter temperatures often hover near zero summer height. Warm ground, steam, and hot water run- This vast body of water is a complex system influencing throughout the day, occasionally reaching highs off create microclimates; in places, plants grow in summer- climate, plants, and animals over a far greater area than its in the 20s. Subzero nighttime lows are common. like lushness. Animals are drawn to hydrothermal areas shoreline. Set against the Absaroka Mountains, it defines ◆ The lowest recorded temperature is -66˚F at the because food is easier to find. the essence of winter—a wilderness snowscape, harshly West Yellowstone station on February 9, 1933. You may be surprised to see puffs of steam at random beautiful. locations. Countless tiny hydrothermal features elude ◆ For most of the park, annual snowfall averages detection by summer visitors, but winter reveals and high- Viewing Wildlife close to 150 inches. At higher elevations, lights their presence. Other clues to hydrothermal influ- Yellowstone is home to a variety and abundance of wildlife amounts are normally well over 200 inches ence include patches of bare ground, ice-free streams or unparalleled in the lower 48 states. The numbers and annually, and, in some locations, over 400 ponds, and frozen spray where no waterfall exists. variety of animals you see are largely a matter of luck and inches. In contrast, the Lamar Valley often has coincidence. As you travel snow-covered roads by snow- less than 24 inches on the ground. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone mobile or snowcoach, look for birds along the waterways, ◆ As many as 2,000 snow machines, including The Yellowstone River has carved a great canyon through elk and bison in the hydrothermal areas, and coyotes track-conversion vehicles and snowcoaches, rocks altered by hydrothermal activity. Snow clings to almost anywhere. Along the road between Gardiner and operate on a busy day in the park. canyon walls in patterns determined by pinnacles, ridges, Cooke City, Montana, you may see large numbers of elk ◆ General park information: 307-344-7381 gullies, and slopes. Deep in the canyon, steam plumes and bison. This is also the area where wolves are seen most (long distance from some park locations) mark locations of hot springs, geysers, and fumaroles. frequently. See page 7 and the insert “Yellowstone Tracker” Massive sheets of ice muffle the roar of the Upper and for more information about wildlife in winter and how to ◆ Lodging and services: 307-344-7311 Lower Falls. At the base of the Lower Falls, spray freezes view them. (long distance from some park locations) and grows into an ice cone that sometimes reaches half the Often, a visit is most remembered and enjoyed for the ◆ Yellowstone National Park Official Web Site: height of the falls. Overlooks along the North and South discoveries made on your own. Patience and alertness may www.nps.gov/yell Rims offer views of different portions of the canyon and of bring you moments of extraordinary beauty or reveal the the Upper and Lower Falls. story of a jumble of tracks in the snow. May your visit be safe, rewarding, and special.

YOUR FEE DOLLARS AT WORK Accessibility Guide Available A free Visitors Guide to Accessible Features in Yellowstone National In 1996, Congress authorized a pilot fee program to demonstrate the feasibility of spreading some of the costs of Park is available at all entrance stations and visitor centers in the park. managing public lands among those who use them. Yellowstone and Grand Teton are among the National Park This guide describes which facilities have been judged to be negotiable for Service units that participate in this pilot fee program. The additional funds generated by the fee increase are being wheelchair users. Additional facilities are being made accessible as quickly used for projects that the parks have been unable to fund through yearly Congressional allocations. as possible within funding limitations. Entrance and campground fees are dedicated to projects that increase the quality of the visitor experience and For more information: enhance the protection of park resources. Projects underway include a major renovation of Canyon Visitor Center Park Accessibility Coordinator including the development of new geology exhibits, campground and amphitheater upgrades, construction of a P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190 new accessible restroom at Mammoth Hot Springs, preservation of rare documents, and studies on bison. 307-344-2017 TDD only (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf) 307-344-2386 www.nps.gov/yell 4 Winter Safety Tips

Winter 2002/2003

Weather Yellowstone’s weather is unpredictable and changes suddenly. Obtain current weather conditions and forecasts at visitor centers or ranger stations. Be prepared for a range of conditions, whether you are out for several hours or overnight. Know the locations of warming huts and phones (map on the back page). Plan your trip and follow your plan.

graphic removed Avalanches for faster loading ◆ Avalanche hazard can be high on roads between the East Entrance and Fishing Bridge Junction, on Dunraven Pass, on trails in the Cooke City vicinity, and in many areas of the backcountry. Learn about avalanche mechanics, safe travel methods, and rescue procedures before going into the backcountry. ◆ Avalanches most commonly occur on hillsides or in canyons with slopes of 30–45˚, but can happen on any slope. ◆ When travelling through such areas, cross the slope one at a time while others watch. ◆ Avalanches are more likely to occur during or after heavy fresh snowfall, high winds, or extreme temperature changes. NPS photo/Jim Peaco NPS photo/Jim ◆ Call the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center, 406-587-6981, for recorded avalanche Please leave the ski tracks for the skiers; don’t walk or snowshoe in them. advisories for Bozeman, Livingston, West Yellowstone, and Gardiner; or check with a local ranger for a current forecast. For Skiers and Snowshoers For Snowmobilers

◆ Evaluate your party’s ◆ Do not approach wildlife. ◆ On groomed roads used by ◆ Travel in groups; emergencies are more easily handled than if you are alone. capabilities. Plan your Wild animals are unpre- snowmobiles, keep to the ◆ Dress for extreme cold. Essential items: helmet, face mask, heavily insulated gloves or mittens, outing so that everyone dictable; if they charge, you right. felt-lined boots, and a heavily insulated snowmobile suit. Avoid tight-fitting garments; they will enjoy it. can’t outrun them in deep ◆ Orange trail markers restrict circulation and increase the possibility of frostbite. snow. If they run, you are ◆ Know your equipment’s attached to trees may be ◆ Carry extra food for 12 hours beyond your planned trip, extra fuel, drive belt, spark plugs and capabilities and weaknesses forcing them to use energy difficult to find in winter. they need to survive. appropriate tools, plus extra parts that frequently break down or wear out. Always include a and be prepared to repair ◆ If you venture into the flashlight, matches and a first aid kit. Repair services are not available in the park except for it. ◆ When passing through backcountry, carry a USGS minor repairs and parts at Old Faithful. areas of dead trees (snags), ◆ Never go close to geysers, topographic map and a ◆ stay on established trails Know the locations of warming huts, snowmobile gas, visitor centers, and public phones (see hot springs, or mudpots. compass—and know how the back page of this newspaper). You may fall through over- and be alert. Snags can fall to use them. ◆ Before starting your trip, check on road and weather conditions. Blowing and drifting snow hanging snow ledges or with little warning. ◆ Even on a well-marked can be especially hazardous in Hayden Valley (between Canyon and Fishing Bridge junctions) thin crust. Do not leave ◆ Exertion in dry mountain trail, you can become lost and on Swan Lake Flats (approximately 4 mi [6.4 km] south of Mammoth Hot Springs). designated trails in hydro- air can dehydrate you. easily in a whiteout or thermal areas. Drink two quarts of water ◆ Avalanches may occur on steep hills or in canyons. When travelling through such areas, do not blizzard. bunch up—spread out. Avalanches are more likely to occur during or after heavy fresh snow- ◆ Beware of icy conditions a day. Carry gear to melt ◆ Attempt off-trail travel only fall, high winds, or extreme temperature changes. on downhill grades leading water from snow or dip it out of a stream from a safe if you are completely famil- ◆ Hazardous conditions may temporarily close Sylvan Pass (between the East Entrance and into hydrothermal areas. iar with the specific area Side-step or walk down the distance with a ski pole. Fishing Bridge Junction). Boil water from lakes or where you will be skiing. hill rather than risk skiing ◆ The road from Tower Junction to the Washburn Hot Springs Overlook, 4 miles (6.4 km) north out of control into a boil- streams to reduce the ◆ Obtain specific information of Canyon Junction, is closed to snowmobiling due to avalanche danger. ing pool. chance of infection from on conditions at the area’s water-borne diseases. ranger station, backcountry ◆ When crossing frozen office, warming hut, or Wild Animals Have the Right of Way! lakes, use extreme caution ◆ Learn as much as you can about winter survival. Talk visitor center. and check ice thickness by ◆ with park rangers before ◆ Most of the park is above If bison or other wildlife are on the road, stop at least 25 yards away and/or pull your machine prodding with a ski pole. as far as possible to the opposite side of the road; give them a chance to move off the road. Ice, snow covered or not, you leave on any trip. 7,000 feet. If you are com- may be thin, especially near Many good books are also ing from lower elevations, ◆ Do not make sudden or erratic movements; use groomed pullouts where possible. inlets, outlets, and waters available on this topic. acclimate yourself and test ◆ Do not chase animals or cause them to stampede. your capabilities by taking warmed by hydrothermal ◆ Follow basic ski etiquette: ◆ short day trips before con- If the animal appears agitated, do not attempt to pass as any advance may cause the animal to activity. Crossing rivers may skiers going uphill yield to charge. be dangerous; some have those going downhill. sidering longer excursions. bridges and some do not. ◆ If animals run toward you and you can confidently turn around, do so, moving to a safe place ◆ Let someone know where to reassess the situation. Ask a ranger about local you are going. crossings. ◆ If they walk or run toward you and you cannot turn around, get off your machine and stand to the side of it, keeping the machine between you and the animals. ◆ If they are standing calmly, inch toward them and assess their behavior. If they remain calm, pass on the opposite side of the road at a moderate speed.

There is no guarantee of your safety. Skiing & Snowshoeing 5

Winter 2002/2003

Yellowstone’s 2.2 million acres provide miles of trails for the adventurous skier and snowshoer. Whether you are on a groomed trail in the front country or venturing into the backcountry, remember that you are traveling in wilderness with all its dangers: unpredictable wildlife, changing weather conditions, remote hydrothermal areas, deep snow, open streams, and avalanches. You have chosen to explore and experience the land on its own terms, but there is no graphic removed guarantee of your safety. Be prepared for any situation. Carefully read the safety information on for faster loading the previous page, plus all backcountry guidelines/regulations, and know the limits of your ability.

You have a choice of ski trails throughout the park—a few are described here. Maps and Trails trail brochures are available for trails in the Mammoth, Tower, Northeast, Canyon, Old Faithful, and West Yellowstone/Gallatin areas. These trails range from easy to difficult.

Old Faithful the snow vehicle road until of Rustic Falls. Along the Soda Butte Creek along an NPS photo/Hirschmann you reach the Biscuit Basin trail, you will have views of abandoned roadway that Lone Star Geyser Trail Trail, which takes you the Gallatin Mountains and parallels the Northeast This moderate 9-mile trail through the Upper Geyser the Gardner River Canyon. Entrance Road at the base Winter Gear Guide begins at the Old Faithful Basin past Morning Glory The trail ends in the Mam- of Barronette Peak. It Snow Lodge and takes you Pool and Geyser Hill. The moth maintenance area. travels through a forest and ◆ to Kepler Cascades. From entire trip is about 8 easy offers spectacular scenery Before you rent or borrow equipment, check for fit there, you follow an Blacktail Plateau Trail and suitability for wilderness use. Choose skis and miles. and consistent snow unplowed service road This trail begins 7.5 miles conditions. boots made for touring or mountaineering. Narrow Northern racing skis may not give you enough surface area to alongside the Firehole River east of Mammoth and break trail and low shoes may not give you enough to Lone Star Geyser. The Region follows an unplowed West ankle support. geyser erupts about every Skiing opportunities 8-mile road. Enjoy vistas of Yellowstone three hours from a 12-foot ◆ abound along the plowed meadows surrounded by Winter temperatures are severe in Yellowstone, high sinter cone. Beginning mountain peaks, and look Riverside Trail but you can be comfortable and safe if you dress road between Mammoth skiers should return the and the Northeast for elk, deer, coyotes, and This trail begins on Boun- properly. Appropriate clothes prevent chilling and same way; more advanced dary Street and heads one overheating. Entrance. See map below. bison scattered throughout skiers might like to return their winter range. mile through forest to the ◆ Prepare for changing conditions by wearing clothes via the Howard Eaton Trail, Upper Terrace Trail Upriver and Downriver in several adjustable layers: which is steep and requires In winter, Upper Terrace Tower Fall Trail loops. Both loops provide windproof, hooded outer layer caution. Drive becomes a groomed This trail begins at Tower scenic views of the Gallatin wool or other insulated garments underneath 1.5 mile ski trail. You’ll Junction and follows the Range and Madison River. wool or synthetic trousers Fairy Falls Trail have fantastic views of the unplowed Tower-Canyon Total distance varies from Catch a snowcoach shuttle long underwear steaming lower terraces and road for 2.5 miles past the 2.5 miles to 4.5 miles, at Old Faithful Snow Lodge wind or rainpants for extra warmth on windy days historic Fort Yellowstone. Calcite Springs Overlook to depending on your route. to the southern end of the wool socks This is a hydrothermal area; Tower Fall. You’ll have Fairy Falls trailhead at the gaiters or overboots please stay on the trail. views of the Yellowstone Steel Bridge. From here you For more details about gloves or wool mittens with shells River Canyon and you can ski to one of the most these and other ski trails, ◆ Do not wear cotton clothes of any kind, including Bunsen Peak Trail might see bison, bighorn spectacular ice-encrusted check at the visitor jeans, sweatshirts, underwear, socks. They retain This 6-mile trail follows the sheep, or bald eagles. falls in the park. You will be centers at Mammoth or moisture and put you at risk for hypothermia. old Bunsen Peak road; in Continue on the 5.5 mile skiing through areas of Old Faithful or at the ◆ places it is steep and has Chittenden Loop Trail or Protect yourself from the sun: burned forest so be alert Public Lands Desk, West sharp turns. Catch the return to Tower Junction. wear dark sunglasses on sunny days for falling trees. You can ski concessioner-operated ski Yellowstone Chamber of apply sunscreen lotion to avoid sunburn back to Old Faithful by shuttle from Mammoth to Barronette Trail Commerce. ◆ As you plan your trip, allow for limited daylight, following the trail next to the trail’s upper end, south This 3.5-mile trail follows changing snow conditions, temperature extremes, and the number of people in the group and their experience and physical condition. ◆ ◆ On day trips, consider taking some or all of these Ski Trails A permit is required for all overnight trips in the items to increase your safety: Yellowstone backcountry. Inquire about backcountry permits at visitor centers or ranger extra clothing matches or lighter In Northern stations. water & food map compass ski repair kit Yellowstone ◆ Pack it in—Pack it out: No matter what trail you are on or its length, you must pack out all refuse. ◆ If you are planning an overnight ski trip, carry all of the above, plus: backcountry permit repair parts and tools backpack sleeping bag Plowed Road closed-cell sleeping pad shovel North Snow Vehicles Only Road Entrance easily-prepared food small tarp Northeast first-aid kit stove and pots Entrance knife tent or bivouac bag 5 mi/8 km probe pole transceiver Mammoth Hot Springs 18 mi/29 km Bannock Upper Terrace Slough Creek Barronette Blacktail Plateau Bunsen Peak Pebble Creek Tower Indian Creek Junction Tower Fall

29 mi/47 km 6 Snowmobilers: Read This Page

Winter 2002/2003

New regulations take effect this winter. You are responsible for knowing all the rules and regulations.

◆ Snowmobile operators must have a valid state motor ◆ Wildlife have the right of way. vehicle driver’s license in possession. Persons with a ◆ Do not idle your machine more than 10 minutes. learner’s permit may operate a snowmobile when supervised one-to-one within line of sight (but no ◆ When stopping, pull to the far right and park in more than 100 yds.) by a licensed person 21 years single file. old or older. ◆ Stay on designated roads. Sidehilling, bermriding, or ◆ Roads are open ONLY between 7 AM and 9 PM. any off-road travel is prohibited and carries a fine of Snowmobiles and snowcoaches are not allowed to up to $5,000. operate in the park between 9 PM and 7 AM. ◆ Report accidents to a ranger. ◆ Snowmobilers entering from the West Entrance must ◆ Operating a snowmobile while intoxicated is illegal. purchase passes before arriving at the gate at the Possession of open alcoholic beverage containers, West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce, Public including bota bags, is illegal. Lands Desk (open daily, 7 AM–6 PM) or at some ◆ hotels and snowmobile rental agencies. Snowmobiles must be registered according to applicable state law. ◆ Use hand signals when turning or stopping. ◆ Lights and brakes must be in good working ◆ Allow enough distance between snowmobiles when condition. traveling. ◆ Snowmobile exhaust and muffler systems must be in ◆ Pass only when safe. good working order. The maximum noise allowed ◆ If you turn around, do so within the road width. is 78 decibels when measured during full accelera- ◆ tion at a distance of 50 feet. Most stock exhaust Drive on the right side of the road even if the road is systems meet this standard; after-market (piped) rough. exhaust systems often do not. Snowmobiles exceed- ◆ Drive in single file. ing the decibel standard are denied entry to the park.

Snowmobiles are NOT allowed ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ on these side roads: Canyon Junction to Washburn Hot Springs ALL ROADS CLOSE AT NIGHT Firehole Canyon Drive No snowmobiles or snowcoaches are allowed Fountain Flat Road on park roads between 9 PM and 7 AM. Lake Butte Overlook Drive North Canyon Rim Drive Plan accordingly. Riverside Drive ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Virginia Cascades Drive Snowcoaches ONLY are allowed on these side roads. Artwork courtesyArtwork of & Resorts Parks Xanterra Know These Numbers ◆ Use hand signals. ◆ Obey the speed limit: 45 mph or less, as posted. 35 mph 45 mph 911 is the speed limit between the West or lower = the number to call ◆ Always give animals the right Entrance and Madison, and between is the speed limit in the park except in an emergency of way. Madison and Old Faithful. as noted at left or otherwise posted.

Save On Park Entrance Fees Private, noncommercial automobile $20 (7 days, both Yellowstone and Grand Teton) go directly to projects that help visitors experi- Individual snowmobile, motorcycle $15 (7 days, both parks) ence the area. The remaining proceeds go to a Single entry (foot, bike, ski, etc.) $10 (7 days, both parks) graphic removed national fund that supports projects at any of the Annual Pass, both parks $40 (valid one year from date of purchase) for faster loading national parks in the system. To obtain your pass, National Parks Pass $50 (valid one year from date of purchase for entrance fees at National Park Service areas) The stop by one of Yellowstone’s entrance stations, or National purchase the pass online at Golden Eagle Pass $65 (valid one year from date of purchase at most fee collection areas) Parks Pass www.nationalparks.org or call toll-free: 1-888-GO-PARKS (1-888-467-2757). For an Golden Age Pass $10 (one-time fee for lifetime pass—available to those provides a way to save money when visiting additional $15, you can upgrade your National citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. 62 years of national parks. For one annual fee of $50, you Park Pass to a Golden Eagle Pass, which provides age and older) can enter all National Park System areas. You admission to all national parks, national wildlife Golden Access Pass Free (available to those citizens or permanent receive a great value and you also support your residents of the U.S. who have been determined refuges, and other federal fee areas. (Neither pass favorite national parks. A full 70% of the pro- to be blind or permanently disabled) is good for user or parking fees, such as at ceeds from the sales of passes at Yellowstone will Remember to keep your admission receipt in order to re-enter the park. Mount Rushmore.) Winter Wonderland 7

Winter 2002/2003

◆ Hydrothermal Areas Below Zero thick steam makes ◆ plants can grow in geyser eruptions warm, wet hydro- look larger than in thermal areas summer through the winter ◆ steam also forms ◆ plants in hydro- “ghost trees” (see thermal areas photo at right) provide food for ◆ runoff channels animals of all cool quickly— sizes—including which means less bison, elk, and habitat for some Canada geese thermophiles (heat- ◆ underwater loving organisms) hydrothermal fea- ◆ graphic removed if thermophile mats for faster loading tures keep holes are dark green, the open in the ice on previous few days Yellowstone Lake have been cloudy ◆ through these ◆ if thermophile mats holes, otters enter are bright green, and exit the lake as the previous few they hunt for fish days have been ◆ dippers—dark birds sunny the size of robins— ◆ ephydrid flies live search for aquatic year-round in the insects year-round hot water in rivers free of ice NPS photo/Frank Balthis NPS photo/Frank

Wildlife Be a Wise Wildlife Watcher Remember that you are a guest in the home of wildlife. ◆ Stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and at least 25 yards (23 m) from all other animals. ◆ Stop in a pullout instead of the middle of the road. ◆ Turn off your engine. ◆ graphic removed Always talk quietly. for faster loading ◆ To find out what people are observing, get out of your car or offyour snowmobile, approach them, and speak quietly. Never call or shout from your vehicle. NPS photo/Peaco

Wildlife in Yellowstone may cles or become exhausted ◆ Respect wildlife—never appear tolerant of humans, chasing traffic. approach too closely but this is a dangerous Human foods in an ani- and be alert for illusion. Animals that have mal’s diet may result in changes in their become habituated—that behavior. graphic removed tooth decay, ulcers, for faster loading is, used to people—are still digestive problems, or ◆ Never feed wild wild and unpredictable. failure to accumulate fat animals—including Habituated wildlife can reserves for the winter. ravens. quickly become condi- Beggar birds and other ◆ Follow the law: tioned to human foods. wildlife may become Stay at least 100 yards Swans, coyotes, bighorn aggressive and have away from bears and sheep, bears, ravens, and occasionally injured park 25 yards away from all other species have all visitors. other animals. NPS photo/Peaco demonstrated begging The park is not a zoo. Winter is the season of greatest stress to all living things. behavior in Yellowstone. Animals live and die based This seemingly harmless on their species’ adapta- Even animals in good condition cannot endure repeated activity is dangerous for tions and their individual stress without depleting energy reserves. Now more than both you and the animals. ability to survive in this ever, you must avoid unnecessarily disturbing wildlife. When they come to the environment. And all ani- roadside to obtain food, mals in the park are wild Never approach animals closely—you may cause an animal they are often hit by vehi- and potentially dangerous. to move, and exertion through deep snow consumes great quantities of energy. 8 Issues in Yellowstone

Winter 2002/2003

Progress On the Winter Use Plan

While you enjoy winter in Yellowstone, we would like you to think about a vexing dilemma we all face. Human use of the park has skyrocketed in the past 20 years, and we have many effects on the habitat and wildlife that we only now are beginning to understand. graphic removed As visitation grows, each person is less assured of the quality experience for faster loading for which Yellowstone is so famous. We have been preparing a new winter use plan since late 1997. It was approved in 2000, but is undergoing additional review. A final plan is expected in 2003. We encourage you to stay informed about the progress of this plan. NPS photo/Peaco

Plan’s Purpose winter use plan and mass-transit snowcoaches. to consider new informa- SEIS process, the Depart- from 9 PM to 7 AM. Winter recreation within Environmental Impact Regulations implementing tion and to seek additional ment of Interior has pub- • Some side roads open Yellowstone and Grand Statement (EIS). NPS this decision were complet- public comment. lished a rule to delay the only to snowcoaches. Te ton National Parks and involved 3 states, 5 coun- ed in January 2001. Cooperating agencies were existing rule by one year. (See page 6.) the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. ties, and the U.S. Forest The delay rule was pub- Supplemental the same as for the EIS, Memorial Parkway should Service as cooperating with the addition of the lished on November 18, For Updates complement the unique agencies for this planning Environmental U. S. Environmental 2002 and goes into effect •Ask at any visitor center or aspects of each landscape effort. Impact Protection Agency (EPA). on December 18, 2002. warming hut. within the ecosystem. The Statement The EIS addressed visitor Additional information Status of •Check this website: range of winter experiences access, affordability, On December 6, 2000, the from the International the SEIS www.nps.gov/yell/techni- and settings should not emissions, sound, socio- Secretary of the Interior, Snowmobile Manufacturers cal/planning/winteruse/plan •Release the Final SEIS mid impact sensitive natural economic impacts and et al., were named as defen- Association is being consid- /index.htm resources, wildlife, cultural wildlife concerns. It dants in a lawsuit brought ered, plus any other new or February 2003. • Call Yellowstone’s Planning areas, or the experiences of received 59,000 public by the International updated information not •Sign the Record of Decision Office at 307-344-2021. other park visitors. comments. In November Snowmobile Manufacturers available earlier. More than in mid March 2003. •Write to Winter Use 2000, NPS signed the Association, et al. A settle- 350,000 additional public •Begin implementing winter Winter Use Planning, P.O. Box 168, Record of Decision (ROD) ment agreement was comment letters and use plan in 2003. Plan EIS to eliminate both snow- reached on June 29, 2001. e-mails were received and Yellowstone National Park, In May 1997, the Fund for mobile and snowplane The Department of Interior considered on the draft This Winter Wyoming 82190. Animals sued the NPS over use from the parks by the directed the National Park SEIS. •No limits on snowmobile winter use and its potential winter of 2003–2004. Service to prepare a supple- The existing rule will numbers this season. effects on wildlife. The NPS Under this decision, access mental environmental remain in effect during the •Roads closed to snow- settled the lawsuit and to the parks would be impact statement (SEIS). An SEIS process. Parallel to the agreed to prepare a new provided by NPS-managed, SEIS was deemed necessary mobiles and snowcoaches

Bison Management Yellowstone’s bison are wild and they do not recognize political boundaries. However, a group of cooperating agencies have agreed to more intensively manage bison that leave the park because In the Yellowstone Area some bison carry the disease brucellosis. These agencies are committed to reducing the possibility of bison transmitting the disease to domestic livestock.

A bison management plan, agreed to by federal and state Plan Highlights agencies, has been in effect since December 2000. The plan ◆ Establish special management areas outside the is founded on the principle of adaptive management and park where bison will be allowed during winter provides the agencies opportunity to gain knowledge and when cattle are not present. experience before proceeding to the successive steps. The ◆ Vaccinate bison when a safe and effective vaccine is biggest challenge is learning if bison and cattle can be available. separated successfully outside the park. To meet this graphic removed ◆ challenge, the plan calls for phasing in greater tolerance of Vaccinate and monitor cattle in specific areas near for faster loading bison during winter in special management areas outside Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone National Park. The adaptive management ◆ Haze bison onto appropriate public lands during principle allows refinement of the plan as managers and winter or back into the park in the spring to keep scientists learn more about brucellosis, bison, cattle, and bison separated from cattle. their management. ◆ Adapt the plan as more knowledge and experience is acquired about the management of brucellosis, The Park’s Objectives bison, and cattle. ◆ NPS photo/Peaco Maintain a wild, free-ranging population of bison plus its genetic integrity and its ecological function in You can view the federal Record of Decision at the Yellowstone area (providing food for predators www.planning.nps.gov/document/yellbisonrod.pdf and scavengers, grazing on Yellowstone’s grasslands). or you can request a copy of the plan by calling the park at 307-344-2207. ◆ Address the risk of brucellosis transmission to protect the economic interest and viability of Montana’s livestock industry. The “Secret” Season 9

Winter 2002/2003

Yellowstone National Park’s quietest time arrives after the winter season ends and as early spring begins. During this special time, visitors can see things that you don’t see in other seasons and can do things you can’t do any other time.

◆ Look for bears—both black and grizzly—newly emerged from their dens. They will be searching for food, such as the carcasses of animals that did not survive winter. ◆ You may see adult wolves busy hunting for food to carry back to the den where pups wait. ◆ Look for newborn bison calves—their orange coats are bright against the landscape. ◆ After roads are plowed, they open for bicycling and walking. It’s just you and park administrative graphic removed vehicles. Check at visitor centers for dates when for faster loading roads open for bicycling and walking. ◆ Enjoy a spring snowshoe or ski near Cooke City and in the Canyon Area. ◆ Visit the mudpots at Mud Volcano, West Thumb, and Fountain Paint Pot. Melting snow makes these features wetter and noisier than in summer or fall. ◆ Begin your hiking season early by exploring the trails near Mammoth; they usually dry earlier than others. ◆ Look for glacier lilies on snow-free slopes. You may even find them blooming among the melting snow. Above: People bring ◆ Look for migrating waterfowl on open water. their binoculars and Some are pausing on their trip north; others will spotting scopes to be nesting here. the Lamar Valley to As always, though, be careful search for wolves and ◆ bears. Observe all wildlife from a safe distance (100 yards from bears; 25 yards from all other animals). Right: You’ll need a graphic removed ◆ for faster loading Check at a visitor center or with a park ranger sharp eye—not a about current conditions of trails, boardwalks, and spotting scope—to roads. see the first flowers ◆ Also check on avalanche hazards, which can be of spring, such as extreme in spring. these glacier lilies. ◆ Watch the weather before you explore Yellowstone’s wild wonders. Carry winter gear and rain gear, and be ready for falling temperatures, strong winds, NPS photo/Jones & Austin & NPS photo/Jones snow, rain, and even lightning. NPS photo/Peaco What’s Open In Early Spring? Yellowstone Services available Credit Card Will Camping: Mammoth Campground, open all year graphic removed Benefit the Park for faster loading Clinic: Mammoth Clinic, open weekdays 8:30 AM–1 PM and 2–5 PM; closed Wednesday afternoons The Yellowstone Park Foundation Lodging: Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Old Faithful Snow Lodge open May 2; and Elan Financial Services have Old Faithful Inn opens May 9; Lake Yellowstone Hotel opens May 16. Other created the new Yellowstone facilities follow within a few weeks. Visa® credit card. The card is The new Yellowstone Visa® credit card features this photograph of Store/Food: Mammoth General Store, open year-round giving individuals who love bull moose by wilderness photographer Tom Murphy Yellowstone the opportunity to Visitor Center: Albright Visitor Center open daily, 9 AM–5 PM. help protect and preserve the park. ◆ Elan will donate a portion of every purchase Spring Road Openings—Weather Permitting made with the Yellowstone Visa card to the Yellowstone Park Foundation at no addi- April 18 Mammoth to Old Faithful; Madison Junction to West Entrance tional cost to the cardholder. The money raised from the credit card program will help fund projects in Yellowstone that are beyond the financial capacity of the National April 25 Norris Junction to Canyon Park Service. ◆ The Yellowstone Visa card features a low introductory APR, seasonal May2 Canyon to Lake, Lake to East Entrance, Tower to Tower Fall discounts with advance reservations at select Yellowstone National Park Lodges, and May9 Lake to South Entrance, West Thumb to Old Faithful many other benefits. ◆ To apply for the card over the phone, or to request an appli- cation, call 888-327-2265 and ask for extension 8302. ◆ To apply for the Yellowstone May 23 Beartooth Highway Visa online, log onto the Yellowstone Park Foundation’s website at www.ypf.org. Closed for construction: Dunraven Pass, Chittenden Road south to Canyon. 10 Friends of Yellowstone

Winter 2002/2003

You Can Help Preserve and Protect Yellowstone

In our increasingly crowded and developed world, Yellowstone National Park provides a source of refuge and renewal for those who enter its quiet places. The park’s magnificent wilderness areas offer a glimpse of what our continent was like when humans first gazed in wonder upon its steaming geysers, thundering waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. However, Yellowstone exists today only because generations who came before us understood its value and made its preservation a priority. Because so many visitors who love Yellowstone want to help ensure that it stands wild and unimpaired for our future, two separate organizations have been established. The Yellowstone Park Foundation and the Yellowstone Association work in partnership with the National Park Service and each other to provide a means for visitors to contribute to Yellowstone’s preservation. Please help us protect and preserve this national treasure. Your contribution to either organization will designate you as a true friend of Yellowstone; contributors of $1,000 or more will have their names displayed on the park’s Honor Wall at Old Faithful, receiving special recognition as stewards and benefactors of Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone will exist tomorrow as one of America’s most treasured places only if our generation understands its value and makes its preservation our priority.

Yellowstone Park Yellowstone Foundation Association

he Yellowstone Park Foundation ecological impacts of the park’s wolf Tis dedicated to funding projects packs; that protect, preserve, and enhance •A new Visitor Education Center to Yellowstone National Park. Its mission replace the outdated and inadequate Join us! is to raise money for important proj- visitor center at Old Faithful (see ects and programs in Yellowstone that as a partner in preserving and protecting page A). otherwise would go unfunded, due to Yellowstone through education! shrinking federal budgets and a Now more than ever, Yellowstone needs $600–700 million operating and infra- your help! The Yellowstone Park structure backlog for the park. Foundation receives no annual govern- Join us! ment funding; it relies on the generous Since January 1997 the Foundation has in any Yellowstone Association bookstore in park visitor contributions of private individuals, raised in excess of $15 million to fund centers and browse through our extensive selection of foundations, and corporations. For a more than 55 projects for Yellowstone. donation of $50 or more, you will books, maps, and videos! Current and ongoing projects include: Our games, puzzles, and activity books will delight your children and help them receive a special premium gift. Donors learn more about Yellowstone’s wildlife and geology. •New interpretive exhibits for the of $25 or more are recognized in museum at Fishing Bridge; Yellowstone’s Honor Book at Old Faithful for one year. Individuals who •A Lynx Population Study to help Join us! donate $1,000 or more are recognized on in the Old Faithful Visitor Center to view a spectacular conserve this threatened species of the Wall of Honor for one year. wild cat; new film provided to visitors by the Yellowstone Association! Please help protect the park’s wonders Learn about the massive volcanic hotspot just under your feet which shaped • The Yellowstone Wolf Project, which and wildlife by becoming a Friend of Yellowstone and fuels hot springs and geysers today! monitors the habits, habitat needs, and Yellowstone. Join us! Yes, make me a Friend of Yellowstone National Park! in a Yellowstone Association Institute class! Contributor Supporter Guardian Steward Other Yellowstone is the teacher, Mother Nature supplies the classroom materials, and the Yellowstone Association Institute provides an experienced and capable instructor. $25 $50 $100 $1,000

Enclosed is a tax-deductible gift of Join us! Name to receive many benefits available only to members! Address Benefits include educational quarterly Yellowstone Association newsletters, plus discounts on your Association purchases, Institute classes, and selected park lodging. City State Zip Proceeds from your Yellowstone Association purchase and membership fund a Phone ( ) E-mail wide range of educational and preservation programs. A beautiful Yellowstone bookbag is free to all who join in park visitor centers. Charge to: MC Visa Credit Card # Exp. Date Join us! and join the thousands who are already helping preserve and Make checks payable to The Yellowstone Park Foundation. protect Yellowstone National Park through education. Ye llowstone Association The Yellowstone Park Foundation P. O. Box 117, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190 (307) 344-2293 222 East Main, Suite 301 www.YellowstoneAssociation.org [email protected] Bozeman, MT 59715 406-586-6303 or visit our website at www.ypf.org Services in the Park 11

Winter 2002/2003

Lodging and Learning

This summer, make a deeper connection the sights and sounds of Yellowstone in with Yellowstone by joining a Yellowstone autumn. Daily guided adventures include Association Institute naturalist for four birding, hiking, and wildlife watching. This days of guided discovery in the world’s package also includes dinner served in the first national park. The “Lodging and historic Roosevelt Lodge and private Learning” programs, offered through a accommodations in Roosevelt’s rustic unique partnership between Yellowstone cabins. National Park Lodges and the Yellowstone With Yellowstone for Families, enjoy Association Institute, are multi-day pack- family activities together such as animal graphic removed ages that include lodging, breakfasts and tracking, wildlife watching, photography, lunches, in-park transportation, daily educational videos, painting, and hiking. for faster loading naturalist-led adventures, and optional This program is designed for families with evening programs. children ages 8–12, but other ages may be Trails Through Yellowstone offers accommodated. You’ll stay at Mammoth naturalist-led hiking, wildlife viewing and Hot Springs Hotel by night, and by day discovery in areas like Mammoth Hot you’ll have the opportunity to discover Springs, the Old Faithful and Norris areas like Lamar Valley and the Grand Geyser Basins, Lamar Valley, the Canyon Canyon of the Yellowstone. area, and Hayden Valley. Comfortable Call 307-344-5566 for Lodging and accommodations and excellent meals are Learning program details and reserva- provided at the Mammoth Hot Springs tions, or log on to www.yellowstoneasso- Hotel and Grant Village. ciation.org/institute/packages/index.htm As part of the September Roosevelt for more information. Yellowstone. Don’t Rendezvous program, you’ll experience just see it, experience it!

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS Yellowstone Today

EMERGENCY: 911 is produced by the Division of Interpretation, National Park Service, Yellowstone National Park, Lodging, dining, camping, in cooperation with the Yellowstone Association activities: 307-344-7311 or and park concessioners. We welcome comments TDD 307-344-5395 about the paper. Write to us at Yellowstone Today, Park Information: 307-344-7381 P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone, WY 82190.

Snowmobilers— Yellowstone Park Service Stations YPSS Offers Services, Advice

Prior to the invention and proliferation of the know where you are as you travel. Dress intelli- snowmobile, the roads of Yellowstone National gently and carry a tow rope, flashlight, matches, Park were seldom travelled in the winter. The an extra drive belt, and spare spark plugs. Fill Yellowstone Park Service Stations has been serving Yellowstone resident winterkeepers, a few hardy souls on your fuel tank when you have the opportunity visitors since 1947. Since 1972, we have also served winter travelers, skis and snowshoes or in snowplanes, and an to do so. Travel at least in pairs if you can and occasional ranger were about the only people watch each other for signs of hypothermia. offering quality petroleum products at four winter locations. out there among all of the winter wildlife and Let someone know what your travel plans are, Snowmobile fuel is available at Canyon, Old Faithful, and scenery. The tempo has changed during the past especially if traveling after dark, and check back Fishing Bridge December 18–March 9 and 30 years, but the unique Yellowstone winter in with them when you arrive at your destina- at Mammoth Hot Springs December 18–March 2. wilderness experience is still here. tion. Be on the lookout for animals on the road. Yellowstone Park Service Stations (YPSS) has Do not approach wildlife closely. The energy an Drive belts, spark plugs, and accessories are available at offered basic services to snowmobilers in animal expends running from you may seriously Old Faithful, Canyon, and Fishing Bridge. Yellowstone since 1972. You are encouraged to affect the animal’s prospects for survival. (Snowmobile repair services are not available.) play it safe out there—Yellowstone can be very It is a privilege to be able to live and work here unforgiving in winter. Familiarize yourself with in the winter. All of us who do hope you enjoy Conoco, Master Card, Visa, Discover, and American Express the location of warming huts, public tele- your winter visit. credit cards are accepted. phones, and other services in the park, and Yellowstone Roads & Facilities Park Information: 307-344-7381 TDD: 307-344-2386 Emergency: dial 911

Spring Plowing Starts March 3 Throughout the park, groomed roads will close Over-snow to oversnow vehicle (snowmobile and snow- Roads coach) traffic for spring plowing as follows: Closed March 3: Mammoth to Norris March 5: Madison to 9 PM –7 AM Norris to Canyon March 10: All other park roads close to oversnow traffic.

Roads close at 8 AM on graphic removed the days listed. for faster loading Spring road opening dates are on page 9.

Chambers of Commerce SPEEDSPEED KILLSKILLS Montana Wyoming Big Sky 406-995-3000 Cody 307-587-2297 moremore tthanhan 110000 llargearge mmammalsammals Billings 406-245-4111 Dubois 307-455-2556 eacheach yearyear Bozeman 406-586-5421 East Yellowstone/ SLOWSLOW DOWNDOWN Cooke City–Silver Gate Wapiti Valley 406-838-2495 307-587-9595 andand Jackson 307-733-3316 savesave a lifelife Gardiner 406-848-7971 Livingston 406-222-0850 Idaho Red Lodge 406-446-1718 Idaho Falls 208-523-1010 West Yellowstone Eastern Idaho 406-646-7701 Visitor Info Center Lodging only 800-634-3246 406-646-9488

Mammoth Clinic: Open weekdays 8:30 AM– Food service Lodging 1 PM and 2–5 PM; closed Wednesday afternoons; Dining Rooms: Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel: Dec. 21–Mar. 2 phone 307-344-7965. Mammoth Hotel, Dec. 21–Mar. 2 Old Faithful Snow Lodge: Dec. 18–Mar. 9 Old Faithful Clinic: Staffed every 2 weeks Old Faithful Snow Lodge, Dec. 18–Mar. 9 Campground during the winter season. Call the Mammoth Fast Foods: Old Faithful Snow Lodge— Mammoth Hot Springs: Open year-round Clinic for more information. Geyser Grill, Dec. 18–Mar. 9 Warming Huts Visitor Centers Snack Bars: Madison and Canyon warming huts, Dec. 18–early March: Mammoth, Indian Creek, Mammoth Hot Springs: Open year-round Dec. 18–Mar. 9 Old Faithful: Dec. 18–Mar. 2 Madison Junction, Old Faithful, West Thumb, General Store Fishing Bridge, Canyon Snowmobile Fuel Mammoth Hot Springs: Open year-round Old Faithful (9 AM–5 PM), Canyon Junction (10 Telephone AM–5 PM), Fishing Bridge (10 AM–5 PM): Dec. Restrooms 18–Mar. 9; Mammoth Hot Springs (10 AM–5 PM): Over-snow routes— Dec. 18–Mar. 3 no wheeled vehicles

This map is courtesy of Conoco—providing petroleum products since 1917 . . . All service stations in Yellowstone offer environmentally sensitive fuels, specially formulated by Conoco to reduce hydrocarbon emissions and decrease other pollution-related problems. A WINTER ACTIVITIES Winter 2002/2003

What can you do in Yellowstone? Check out the listings inside this special section of Yellowstone Today. You’ll find activities, talks, and other special events and experiences in and around Yellowstone National Park.

Yellowstone to Build Visitor Centers and Warming Huts Contents New Visitor Education Center Albright Visitor Center, Mammoth West Yellowstone: Chamber of Page A Daily, year-round: 9 AM–5 PM. Information, Commerce, Public Lands Desk New Education Center at Old Faithful bookstore, and exhibits on wildlife and Daily, Dec. 18–March 9: 7 AM–6 PM. Self-Guiding Trails history. Films on the national park idea and Information, park entrance passes, Visitor Centers artist Thomas Moran are shown through- publications. Located on the corner of Warming Huts out the day. Call 307-344-2263. Yellowstone Avenue and Canyon Street. Old Faithful Visitor Center Call 406-646-4403. Page B graphic removed Ranger-Led Programs for faster loading Daily, Dec. 18–March 9: 9 AM–5 PM. Information, bookstore, and geyser predictions. New film about hydrothermal Page C features. Call 307-545-2750. Xanterra Parks & Resorts: Programs & Tours Warming Huts Junior Ranger Program Old Faithful Geyser is visited by more than Mammoth Indian Creek —Winter 85 percent of the 3.1 million people who come to Dec. 18–Mar. 2: 8 AM–5 PM Dec. 18–Mar. 2: 24 hours daily Vending machine snacks and cold drinks Page D Yellowstone each year. On peak summer days, more Fishing Bridge than 25,000 visitors await eruptions of Old Faithful are available. On-the-Web Learning: Dec. 18–Mar. 9: 24 hours daily Electronic Field Trips and explore the surrounding geyser basin, which Old Faithful Vending machine snacks and cold drinks contains the world’s largest concentration of active Residential Learning: Dec. 18–Mar. 9: Daytime only available. Expedition geysers. Vending machine snacks are available. Canyon Yellowstone But the existing visitor center at Old Faithful does Madison Dec. 18–Mar. 9: 24 hours daily Yellowstone Institute not meet visitor needs for information, orientation, Dec. 18–Mar. 9: 24 hours daily Light snacks and hot drinks sold during Classes or educational services. It is too small and has no Light snacks and hot drinks sold during the day; vending machine snacks available interpretive exhibits. The auditorium lacks sufficient the day; vending machine snacks available any time. seating for the many people who want to see new any time. and exciting films about the park. Visitors leave the West Thumb geyser basin without understanding its unique natu- Dec. 18–Mar. 9: 24 hours daily ral resources and their importance. The National Park Service has long recognized the need for a new visitor center at Old Faithful, but Self-Guiding Trails more pressing problems have taken precedence. Now the Yellowstone Park Foundation is leading a Stretch your legs on these self-guiding trails. Check at a areas and enjoy a scenic ski or snowshoe through the capital campaign to raise at least $15 million for an visitor center for current conditions and to purchase a trail Upper Terraces. guide for a 50¢ donation. The guides are also available at Old Faithful Visitor Education Center. A $1.25 mil- Mud Volcano Area lion grant from Unilever began the funding drive, each trail. Discover turbulent and explosive mudpots, including Mud followed by $2 million from Conoco and, most Canyon Area recently, $1 million from the Coca-Cola Foundation. Volcano and Dragon’s Mouth. View—and smell—Sulphur View the colorful Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River Caldron. Located on the road between Lake and Canyon, Additional private donations have brought the total and the Upper and Lower Falls from overlooks; see for 6 miles (9.6 km) north of Fishing Bridge Junction. amount pledged to this project to more than yourself why viewpoints are named Grandview and Artist $9 million. Point. Norris Geyser Basin The new visitor education center will fit into the Explore the hottest, most dynamic geyser basin in the park, historic landscape. It will be fully accessible, energy- Fort Yellowstone which includes Steamboat, the world’s tallest geyser. It efficient, of sustainable design, and built with envi- Enjoy a walking tour around this historic site at Mammoth erupted in September 2002—its second eruption since ronmentally friendly construction materials and Hot Springs. Most buildings were constructed during the May 2000. techniques. In the approximately 10,000 square feet time that the U.S. Army managed the park (1886–1918). of exhibit space, visitors will discover a “window They are now used by the National Park Service as its Old Faithful & Upper Geyser Basin on the Earth” with interactive exhibits, computer headquarters. The world’s largest concentration of geysers is located in animations and simulations, videos, and films. the Upper Geyser Basin. View Old Faithful then walk the Fountain Paint Pot trails past hundreds of geysers and hot springs. If you would like to contribute to the Old Faithful View examples of the four types of hydrothermal features: Visitor Education Center, please contact the geysers, hot springs, fumaroles, and mudpots. Eight miles West Thumb Geyser Basin Yellowstone Park Foundation: 406-586-6303; 222 (12.9 km) north of Old Faithful. The boiling springs in this basin, including the famous East Main Street, Suite 301; Bozeman, MT 59715; Fishing Cone, discharge their waters into chilly www.ypf.org, or complete and mail the coupon on Mammoth Hot Springs Yellowstone Lake. The Absaroka Mountains provide a page 10. Hot spring activity is sculpting an ever-changing landscape backdrop to this self-guiding trail. of travertine terraces. Walk through active and inactive B Ranger–Led Programs

Winter 2002/2003 Mammoth Hot Springs

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Visitor Center 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM Open daily, year-round Snowshoe Yellowstone! Starts December 31, ends February 25 Experience Yellowstone National Park’s winter beauty on a guided snowshoe walk 1:30 PM with a park ranger. Learn about the diversity of life in this season as you silently traverse the snow. Advance reservations required. Call 307-344-2263 or stop by Albright (Mammoth) Visitor Center. Some snowshoes are available free or they can be rented for $8 (half day) from the Bear Den Ski Shop next to the Mammoth Hotel. Come prepared with warm, layered clothes, sunglasses and water. You will need to drive 5–15 miles to a suitable location. Beginners welcome! 2 to 3 hours Winter Wildlife Tour Starts December 25, ends February 26 Join a park ranger on this narrated bus tour of Yellowstone’s northern range, an 1 PM important winter habitat for many species. Dress warmly. A limited number of binoc- ulars and spotting scopes are provided. Meet at the Mammoth Hotel Lobby. Advance reservations required through Xanterra Parks and Resorts. Call 307-344-7311 or stop by the Mammoth Hotel ($21, children less). 3–31⁄2 hours Talk: Feathers, Fur, and Fleece—Warm Up to Winter 4 PM 4 PM Starts December 23, ends February 24 Wolves, elk, bison, birds, and other animals survive and thrive in the frozen winter environment of Yellowstone National Park. How do you warm up to winter? Grab a cup of coffee or hot cocoa and join a ranger for a talk about the park’s wildlife. Meet in the Mammoth Hotel Map Room. 1⁄2 hour Evening Program Starts December 26, ends March 1 Join a park ranger for an illustrated program highlighting a fascinating aspect of 8:30 PM 8:30 PM 8:30 PM Yellowstone’s natural, cultural, or scenic wonders. Program descriptions will be posted in the Mammoth Hotel and Albright Visitor center. Meet in the Mammoth Hotel Map Room. 1 hour

Old Faithful

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Visitor Center 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM Open Daily, 12/18/02–3/9/03 Geology Talk Starts December 25, ends March 9 Yellowstone’s history of volcanoes, earthquakes, and glaciers reveals a restless 11 AM 11 AM 11 AM 2 PM 2 PM 11 AM 11 AM geological past (and present!). Learn about Yellowstone’s geology and its effects on the ecosystem during this presentation. Meet in the Old Faithful Visitor Center Auditorium. 20 minutes Old Faithful Walk Starts December 25, ends March 9 Learn the ins and outs of one of the rarest geological features on earth—geysers! 2 PM 2 PM 2 PM 2 PM Accompany a park ranger for this 0.7-mile walk around Old Faithful Geyser and explore the world of hydrothermal features. Come prepared with warm layered clothes and warm sturdy footwear. Meet at Old Faithful Visitor Center. 1 hour Evening Program Starts December 25, ends March 9 Join a park ranger for an slide-illustrated program highlighting a fascinating aspect 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM of Yellowstone’s natural, cultural, or scenic wonders. Weekly program descriptions posted in Old Faithful Visitor Center. Meet at the Old Faithful Visitor Center Auditorium. 45 minutes

West Yellowstone

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce, Public Lands Desk 7 AM–6 PM 7 AM–6 PM 7 AM–6 PM 7 AM–6 PM 7 AM–6 PM 7 AM–6 PM 7 AM–6 PM Open Daily, 12/18/02–3/9/03 Snowshoe Walk Starts December 28, ends March 8 Discover Yellowstone’s fascinating winter ecology while wearing snowshoes. Join a 1:30 PM 1:30 PM park ranger for a 2-mile walk into Yellowstone National Park along the Riverside Trail. Meet at the Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center, corner of Yellowstone Avenue and Canyon Street, in West Yellowstone, Montana. Bring snowshoes—no experience necessary. Also bring water and a snack. For information, please call 406-646-4403. 3 hours = Accessible Tours & Other Programs C

Winter 2002/2003 Xanterra Parks & Resorts Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

INTERPRETIVE SNOWCOACH TOURS Full and half-day adventures in heated oversnow vehicles. From West Yellowstone to Old Faithful: $46 11:30 AM– 11:30 AM– 11:30 AM– 11:30 AM– 11:30 AM– 11:30 AM– 11:30 AM– 2:30 PM 2:30 PM 2:30 PM 2:30 PM 2:30 PM 2:30 PM 2:30 PM From Old Faithful to West Yellowstone: $46 8–10:30 AM 8–10:30 AM 8–10:30 AM 8–10:30 AM 8–10:30 AM 8–10:30 AM 8–10:30 AM From Mammoth to Old Faithful: $48.50 8 AM–NOON 8 AM–NOON 8 AM–NOON 8 AM–NOON 8 AM–NOON 8 AM–NOON 8 AM–NOON From Old Faithful to Mammoth: $48.50 2–6 PM 2–6 PM 2–6 PM 2–6 PM 2–6 PM 2–6 PM 2–6 PM From Old Faithful to Flagg Ranch: $51 9 AM–NOON 9 AM–NOON 9 AM–NOON 9 AM–NOON 9 AM–NOON 9 AM–NOON 9 AM–NOON From Flagg Ranch to Old Faithful: $51 1–4:30 PM 1–4:30 PM 1–4:30 PM 1–4:30 PM 1–4:30 PM 1–4:30 PM 1–4:30 PM Canyon Day Tour, from Old Faithful: $97 8:30 AM– 8:30 AM– 8:30 AM– 8:30 AM– 8:30 AM– 6 PM 6 PM 6 PM 6 PM 6 PM Canyon Day Tour, from Mammoth: $92 8:30 AM– 8:30 AM– 8:30 AM– 8:30 AM– 8:30 AM– 5 PM 5 PM 5 PM 5 PM 5 PM Old Faithful Day Tour, from West Yellowstone: $92 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM 9 AM–5 PM Firehole River Wildlife Tour, Old Faithful only: $24 1–4 PM 1–4 PM 1–4 PM West Thumb Geyser Basin Tour, Old Faithful only: $24 1–4 PM 1–4 PM INTERPRETIVE BUS TOURS Winter Wildlife Tour, Mammoth Hotel only: $21 1–4 PM Ranger-led interpretive tour to Lamar Valley via bus or van Daybreak Tour, Mammoth Hotel only: $23 7–10:30 AM Tour to Lamar Valley via van or bus, with continental breakfast SKI AND SNOWSHOE TOURS Grand Canyon Ski Tour, from Old Faithful: $99 8 AM–6 PM 8 AM–6 PM Grand Canyon Ski Tour, from Mammoth: $99 8 AM–6 PM Afternoon Ski-Daddles, Old Faithful to Fairy Falls: $35 Noon–5 PM Afternoon Ski-Daddles, Old Faithful to DeLacy Creek: $35 Noon–5 PM Cooke City See and Ski, from Mammoth: $59 8:30 AM–5:30 PM Guided Snowshoe Tour, Mammoth or Old Faithful: 8:30–11:30 AM 8:30–11:30 AM $27 tour with snowshoe rental; $22 tour only (Old Faithful only) EVENING PROGRAMS Interpretive slide show and talk about early visitor experiences in Yellowstone 8:30 PM 8:30 PM 8:30 PM 8:30 PM Mammoth Map Room Live Piano Music in the Mammoth Map Room 5 PM 5 PM 5 PM 5 PM 5 PM 5 PM 5 PM

Other Activities Through Xanterra Become a Winter Junior Ranger unioru Yellowstone National Park Lodges is again Nordic Heaven—Includes 1-day ski rental JRANGERR offering Winter Getaway value packages, which and ski drop per person. Children, invite your family to join you on an YELLOWSTONE make it easier to enjoy the park under its frosty Mammoth: unforgettable adventure—Yellowstone National cover. Mammoth packages include a 1-hour $116 Per Person Double Occupancy Park’s official Winter Junior Ranger Program. hot tub rental and unlimited ice-skating. Old $180 Single Occupancy Faithful packages include round-trip snow- You get to hike, ski, or snowshoe a trail, attend a Old Faithful: coach transportation per person. Plus, each ranger-led program, and complete fun-filled $235 Per Person Double Occupancy package includes 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts activities designed for students 5–12 years old. $345 Single Occupancy per person, a welcome gift and a Snow Card Simply purchase your copy of Yellowstone’s Nature, Earn a (good for 10% off of meals, select gifts, in-park Snomo-Deal—Includes 1-day snowmobile the 8–page Junior Ranger activity paper for $3 at the winter patch. transportation, tours, ski shop services and rental (1 machine) and clothing package. Extra Albright Visitor Center in Mammoth, the Old It’s new snowmobile rentals. The Snow Card is valid all snowmobile and snowmobile clothing package: Faithful Visitor Center, or the West Yellowstone this year! winter, so keep it for your next visit!) Rates $148 additional Chamber of Commerce—Public Lands Desk. below are valid January 1–March 9, 2003, and Mammoth: Once you have completed the program requirements, stop back into one of these do not include tax. $171 Per Person Double Occupancy locations so a ranger can review your work and award you an arrowhead-shaped Frosty Fun Package $312 Single Occupancy patch like the one shown above. It’s new this winter and features a snowflake. Mammoth: Old Faithful: Participate in this winter program and join more than 17,000 children who $94 Per Person Double Occupancy $290 Per Person Double Occupancy became Junior Rangers last year. $158 Single Occupancy $477 Single Occupancy Old Faithful: Visit our website at www.TravelYellowstone.com $213 Per Person Double Occupancy for details. To reserve, stop by one of the hotel $323 Single Occupancy front desks or call us at 307-344-7311. A National Park Service Program D Other Educational Opportunities

Winter 2002/2003 With the National Park Service Classes at the Yellowstone Institute

Lodging and Learning programs are WINDOWS INTO WONDERLAND learning vacations offered in cooperation Attention all middle school students! with Xanterra Parks and Resorts. The packages include instruction by an Now loading the cyber-bus to adventure! Institute naturalist/guide, breakfast and graphic removed box lunch daily, accommodations at park Climb aboard Yellowstone wolf, learn how a pup electronic adventure hotels, ski/snowshoe rental, and in-park for faster loading National Park’s cyber-bus grows to become a full- through “Wonderland,” a transportation. Programs are offered and look through its fledged pack member, and nickname for Yellowstone weekly throughout January and February. Windows Into Wonder- find out how the gray wolf even before it became a The Lodging and Learning programs are: land. These electronic was restored to Yellow- national park. • Yellowstone for Families—Winter field trips serve as your stone National Park. These trips are free, so Three days discovering winter in passports to fascinating Come face to face with a be sure to mention this courtesyPhoto ofAssociation Yellowstone the Yellowstone with an expert naturalist. journeys, simply by log- grizzly bear and discover exciting opportunity to • Winter Wolf Discovery ging on to the website. its habits and life history, The Yellowstone Association Institute is a your teachers and friends. Tw o days learning about Yellowstone’s non-profit field school operated in part- During the 2002–2003 then take a crash course Your class will be able to wolves with an Institute wolf biologist. school year, learn about in bear-country safety. register online and nership with the National Park Service to Walk into the works of help visitors gain a deeper appreciation • Winter Wildlife Expedition fire ecology and visit Yellowstone park staff will Tw o days discovering the abundant artist Thomas Moran or for the world’s first national park. To Yellowstone during the answer your questions for and varied wildlife. photographer William enhance your winter visit, the Institute 1988 Summer of Fire. three days after the pre- • Wonderland Travel back in time 11,000 Jackson. You’ll witness miere of each field trip. offers three types of programs: the influence of art in Five days exploring Yellowstone’s years to an ice-covered Field Seminars explore a single topic winter environment on skis, snow- Yellowstone first-hand as Come join the fun! Last Yellowstone landscape; in depth, from nature writing to wolf shoes, and during interpretive snow- they reveal the marvels of year’s Windows Into then return to the present Wonderland explorers biology. Based at the historic Buffalo coach trips to Old Faithful and with brief stops at land- Yellowstone to the Ranch in the northeast corner of the Canyon. American public. included students from all mark events in the park’s 50 states and 19 other park, the courses are taught by a variety • Yellowstone On Skis history. Enter the den of a Here is your chance for an countries. of Yellowstone experts. Accommodations Five days of interpretive ski tours from are available on site in simple and com- geyser basins to Yellowstone’s Grand www.windowsintowonderland.org fortable log cabins. Canyon. This winter’s courses include: Yellowstone Educational Adventures are personal nat- Family Winter Adventure (Dec. 19–22), ural history tours based on your own graphic removed Winter Photography (Jan. 6–8), Avalanche schedule and interests. An Institute natu- for faster loading Safety (Jan. 9–12), Yellowstone’s Wolves ralist will meet you in Mammoth and join (Jan. 17–19), Basic Snow Tracking (Jan. you in your vehicle for a day of watching 19–21), Wilderness First Aid (Jan. 22–23), and learning about Yellowstone wildlife. Writing About Winter (Jan. 27–30), The Institute is sponsored by the Bring Your Class to Yellowstone & Exploring Yellowstone on Snowshoes Yellowstone Association, a non-profit (Jan. 30–Feb. 2), Wildlife on Yellowstone’s organization whose mission is to foster Let Us Do the Teaching! Northern Range (Feb. 8–9), Yellowstone the public’s understanding, enjoyment, Coyotes (Feb. 10–12), Wolf Watching in and appreciation of Yellowstone National Teachers: How would you investigations, hikes, cre- expanded to incorporate Yellowstone (Feb. 28–March 2), Wolf Park by funding and providing education- like to spend 4–5 days and ative dramatics, journal 7th and 8th grades and Conservation and Management (March al products and services. To obtain infor- nights with your 4th–6th writing, and group discus- winter lesson plans with 3–5), Wolf Social Behavior (March 5–7), mation or register for a course, contact grade students? If it sounds sions, students learn about the goal to expand to a Snow Tracking (March 13–16), Wildlife the Institute registrar at 307-344-2294 or too good to be true, believe the natural and cultural nine-month program for Observation—Winter (March 21–24), and [email protected]. it! The historic Lamar resources of Yellowstone 4th–8th grade classes. A Coyote and Raven (March 22–24). Complete course information is also avail- Buffalo Ranch in Yellow- and the current issues staff of park rangers with able at www.yellowstoneassociation.org. stone National Park is affecting the Greater diverse education back- where dreams really do Yellowstone Ecosystem. grounds instructs these come true. This is where This program currently expeditions through the parent chaperones have operates during the park. The Expedition: said, “This is the most months of April–May and Yellowstone! coordinator important thing that could September–October in the will work with you to tailor happen to children during northeast corner of the an itinerary for your stu- their elementary educa- park. As a cost-recovery dents that best meets their tion” and that “The experi- program, fees cover faculty educational needs. All ence benefits the adults as salaries and instructional activities are correlated to graphic removed much as the students.” materials. For groups Wyoming, Montana, and for faster loading Your students, chaperones, between 30–40 students Idaho state education stan- and yourself are invited to and adults, the cost is dards. For more informa- participate in Expedition: $20/person/night and tion, contact the Yellowstone!—a curriculum- groups less than 30 people Expedition: Yellowstone! based residential education are charged $25/person/ Coordinator, PO Box 168, program in its 18th year of night. Presently, the Yellowstone, WY 82190. operation. Through field curriculum is being Photo courtesyPhoto ofAssociation Yellowstone the