National Park Service Park News U.S. Department of the Interior Summer 2005

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

LATHAM JENKINS Welcome to Grand Teton National Park

Few landscapes in the world are as striking and memorable as that of Grand Teton National Park. The Teton Range, the central feature Caring for the and focus of the park, draws the eyes for miles, captivating park American Legacy visitors and local residents alike. For generations, the Tetons have Grand Teton National Park is one of touched all who have witnessed their beauty. nearly 400 park sites administered by the National Park Service (NPS). The NPS preserves the natural and cultural Rising abruptly from the valley floor, the Tetons offer a testament to resources and values of the National Park the power and complexity of nature. The mountains, valleys, lakes, System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future rivers, and skies are home to diverse and abundant plants and generations. The NPS also cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of animals. People have been living in the shadow of the Teton Range natural and cultural resource conservation for almost 11,000 years. The human history of this area is extensive, and outdoor recreation throughout this View of Teewinot Mountain from Jenny Lake country and the world. beginning with American Indian prehistoric life, to the early Euro- American explorers, and the more relatively recent frontier On August 25, 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed the act creating the settlement, which left more than 300 historic structures. National Park Service, a new federal bureau in the Department of the Interior responsible for protecting the 40 national This spectacular mountain range and the desire to protect it parks and monuments then in existence, as well as those yet to be established. resulted in the establishment of Grand Teton National Park in 1929. Over time, through the vision and generous philanthropy of John D. The Organic Act of August 25, 1916, states that: “The Service thus established Rockefeller, Jr., additional lands were added, creating the present- shall promote and regulate the use of day park. This area continues to be protected through the Federal areas known as national parks, monuments and reservations – by such combined efforts of the National Park Service, the local community, means and measures as conform to the and Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem partners. Grand Teton fundamental purpose of the said parks, E E L

monuments and reservations, which S S E National Park is a dynamic example of people from all walks of life J purpose is to conserve the scenery and Alpine forget-me-not American white pelican the natural and historic objects and the working together to protect a mountain range and its surrounding wild life therein and to provide for the landscape of natural and human communities. enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future Grand Teton National Park is truly a special and unique place. With generations.” thoughtful use and careful management, it can remain so for The National Park Service strives to meet generations to come. As with other sites in the National Park System, those original goals, while filling many other roles as well: guardian of diverse Grand Teton preserves a piece of the natural and cultural heritage cultural and recreational resources; environmental advocate; world leader in of America for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations. the parks and preservation community; and pioneer in the drive to protect America’s open space. While you are here, take a moment to put your cares aside, stroll through a grassy meadow, hike a park trail, sit on a quiet lakeshore, Please join us in protecting Grand Teton National Park by following park and lose yourself to the power of this place. We hope you will be regulations and watching out for your refreshed and restored during your visit, and stay connected to this own safety and the safety of others. Enjoy your visit. magnificent landscape long after you have returned home. Maud Noble Cabin

International Visitors Contact Information Index Visitor Services...... 2 Des renseignements en Français sont disponibles Grand Teton National Park’s website ...... www.nps.gov/grte/ Geology ...... 3 aux centres des visiteurs dans le parc. EMERGENCY ...... 911 Wildlife ...... 4 Sie konnen Informationen auf Deutsch in den Park Dispatch ...... (307) 739-3301 Natural History ...... 5 Besucherzentren bekommen. Visitor Information ...... (307) 739-3300 Hiking ...... 6 Weather...... (307) 739-3611 Safety ...... 7 Se puede conseguir información en Español en Road Conditions...... (307) 739-3682 Camping ...... 8 el Centro del Visitante. Backcountry & River Information ...... (307) 739-3602 Park Partners...... 9 Climbing Information ...... (307) 739-3604 Fire Management ...... 10 Accessibilty information available at Camping Information...... (307) 739-3603 Yellowstone ...... 11 visitor centers and on www.nps.gov/grte TDD (Telecommunication Device for the Hearing Impaired)...... (307) 739-3400 Park Map ...... 12

TEEWINOT [Summer 2005] 1 Services and Facilities www.nps.gov/grte/ Open/close dates and hours of operation subject to change at any time. Facilities listed north to south.

Gros Ventre Camping Gros Ventre Campground May 1-Oct 15 (307) 543-3100 360 sites, dump station. First-come, first-served. (800) 628-9988

Moose Visitor Center Moose Visitor Center Year-round (307) 739-3399 NPS visitor center, open 8 a.m.-5 p.m., 8 a.m.-7 p.m. June 6-September 5. Lodging Dornan’s Spur Ranch Year-round (307) 733-2522 One- and two- bedroom cabins with kitchens, located on the Snake River. Food Service Dornan’s Chuck Wagon June 11-Sept 18 (307) 733-2415 x203 Traditional western fare. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dornan’s Pizza & Pasta Co. Year-round (307) 733-2415 x204 May 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m., June-Sept 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Oct-April 11:30 a.m.-3p.m. Dornan’s Trading Post Year-round (307) 733-2415 x201 Gourmet items, groceries, cheeses, and deli. Deli open May-September. Dornan’s Wine Shoppe Year-round (307) 733-2415 x202 May 10 a.m.- 8 p.m., June-Sept 10 a.m.- 10 p.m., Oct-April 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Camp Store/Gift Shops Dornan’s Gift Shop Year-round (307) 733-2415 x301 May 8 a.m.-5 p.m June-Sept 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Oct-April 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Moosely Seconds May-Sept (307) 739-1801 Located at Dornan’s. Mountaineering and camping equipment. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Service Station Dornan’s Year-round Automotive fuel, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Other Snake River Anglers May-Oct (307) 733-3699 Located at Dornan’s. Spin and fly fishing, float trips, Wyoming fishing licenses. Adventure Sports May-Sept (307) 733-2415 x302 Located at Dornan’s. Bike, kayak, and canoe rentals and sales. 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

South Visitor Center Jenny Lake Visitor Center June 6-Sept 30 NPS visitor center, open 8 a.m.-7 p.m. until Sept 6. Open until 5 p.m. Sept 6-30. Jenny Lake Ranger Station Jenny Lake Ranger Station May -Sept (307) 739-3343 NPS ranger station offering backcountry permits, maps, and climbing information. Lodging AAC Climber’s Ranch June 11-Sept 30 (307) 733-7271 Located south of Jenny Lake, very rustic accommodations. Camping Jenny Lake Campground May 15-Sept 25 (307) 543-3100 51 sites, tents only. First-come, first-served. (800) 628-9988 Camp Store/Gift Shops General Store May 13-Sept 18 Camping and hiking supplies, groceries, film and gifts. Boat Tours Jenny Lake Boating May 15-Sept 30 (307) 734-9227 Shuttle and tours across Jenny Lake. Kayak and canoe rentals available.

North Lodging Jenny Lake Lodge June 3-Oct 9 (307) 733-4647 Modified American Plan. Jenny Lake (800) 628-9988 Food Service Lodge Dining Room June 3-Oct 9 Breakfast 7:30-9 a.m., lunch 12-1:30 p.m., dinner 6-8:45 p.m. Reservations required for dinner. Gift Shops Jenny Lake Lodge June 3-Oct 9 Gifts, books, and apparel.

Signal Lodging Signal Mountain Lodge May 7-Oct 16 (307) 543-2831 Lakefront suites, motel units, and log cabins. Mountain Food Service Peaks Dining Room May 7-Oct 12 Open daily for dinner, 5:30-10 p.m. Hours vary during shoulder seasons. Trapper Grill May 7-Oct 16 Open daily. Breakfast 7-11 a.m., lunch 11 a.m-5:30 p.m., dinner 5:30-10 p.m. Hours vary during shoulder seasons. Camp Store/Gift Shops Needles Gift Store May 7-Oct 16 Open daily 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Hours vary during shoulder seasons. Timbers Gift Store May 7-Oct 16 Open daily 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Hours vary during shoulder seasons. Service Stations May 7-Oct 16 Open daily 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Hours vary during shoulder seasons. Marina Signal Marina May 21-Sept 18 Rentals, guest buoys, lake fishing trips, gas and courtesy docks. Hours vary Camping Signal Mountain CG May 7-Oct 15 (307) 543-2831 86 sites, 30-foot vehicle max, dump station. First-come, first-served. (800) 672-6012

Jackson Lake Lodging Jackson Lake Lodge May 23-Oct 3 (307) 543-3100 Lodge (800) 628-9988 Food Service Mural Room May 23-Oct 3 Breakfast 7-9:30 am, lunch 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., dinner 5:30-9 p.m. Dinner reservations recommended. Pioneer Grill May 23-Oct 3 Open daily 6 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Blue Heron May 23-Oct 2 Open daily 11 a.m.-midnight. Gift Shops Jackson Lake Lodge May 23-Oct 3 Sundries, magazines, books, gifts, souvenirs, and apparel. Service Station May 23-Oct 3 Gas and diesel. Horseback Riding Jackson Lake Lodge Corral May 24-Oct 3 (307) 543-2811 Breakfast and dinner rides, wagon seats available. Trail rides.

Triangle X Lodging Triangle X Ranch May 22-Oct 31 (307) 733-2183 Full service guest ranch with horseback riding, and other ranch activities. Dec-March Winter activities include skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and sightseeing.

Colter Bay Visitor Center Colter Bay Visitor Center May 7-Oct 10 (307) 739-3594 NPS visitor center and museum, open 8 a.m.-7 p.m. May 28-Sept 5. & Indian Arts Museum Otherwise 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Lodging Colter Bay Cabins May 27-Sept 25 (307) 543-3100 Tent Village June 3-Sept 5 (800) 628-9988 Camping RV Park May 27-Sept 25 (307) 543-3100 Hook-ups available. (800) 628-9988 Colter Bay Campground May 27-Sept 25 (307) 543-3100 350 sites, dump station, propane, laundry and showers nearby. (800) 628-9988 Food Service Chuck Wagon May 27-Sept 25 Breakfast 6:30-11 a.m., lunch 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., dinner 5:30-9 p.m. Café Court June 3-Sept 5 Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Camp Store/Gift Shops General Store May 27-Sept 25 ATM, groceries, gifts, and firewood. Marina Store June 1-Aug 31 (depending on water levels) Fishing tackle, film, outdoor apparel, beverages and snacks. Service Stations Highway Station Apr 30-Oct 16 Gas, diesel, beverages, snacks, souvenirs, and firewood. Village Station May 27-Sept 11 Propane, gas, diesel, beverages, snacks, souvenirs, and firewood. Horseback Riding Colter Bay Corral June 3-Sept 5 (307) 543-2811 Breakfast and dinner rides, wagon seats available. Trail rides. Marina Colter Bay June 1-Aug 31 (depending on water levels) Scenic cruises, boat rentals, guided fishing, gas.

Leek’s Marina Food Service Leek’s Pizzeria May 26-Sept 5 (307) 543-2494 Pizza and sandwiches. Open daily 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Marina Leek’s Marina May 21-Sept 11 (307) 543-2546 Dependent on water levels.

Lizard Creek Camping Lizard Creek Campground June 3-Sept 5 (307) 543-2831 60 sites, 30-foot vehicle max. First-come, first-served. (800) 672-6012

Flagg Ranch Visitor Center Flagg Ranch Information Station June 6-Sept 5 (307) 543-2372 NPS visitor center, open 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Lodging Flagg Ranch Resort May 15-Oct 10 (307) 543-2861 Log style units. Food Service Flagg Ranch Resort May 15-Oct 10 (800) 443-2311 Home-style menu, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Camp Store/Gift Shop Flagg Ranch Resort May 15-Oct 10 Essentials for camping and fishing, diesel, and snowmobile rentals. Camping Flagg Ranch Campground May 28-Sept 30 (307) 543-2861 Full hook-ups, tent sites, laundry, showers. Horseback riding Flagg Ranch Resort June-August (307) 543-2861 One-hour trail rides. Snowmobiling/Snowcoach Flagg Ranch Resort Dec-March (307) 543-2861 Guided snowmobile and snowcoach trips into Yellowstone.

Other Services Jackson Information Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce (307) 733-3316 Located in Jackson. All services available, visitor center located at 532 N. Cache. Environmental Education Teton Science School May-August (307) 733-4765 Field natural history seminars. One- to four-day field trips. Horseback Riding Jackson Hole Trail Rides May-Sept (307) 733-6992 Two- and four-hour trail rides from Teton Village. Mountaineering Exum Mountain Guides Year-round (307) 733-2297 Daily basic and intermediate schools. AMGA accredited. JH Mountain Guides Year-round (307) 733-4979 Guide service for individuals or small groups. AMGA accredited. Snake River Float Trips Barker-Ewing Float Trips May-Sept (307) 733-1800 10-mile scenic trips. Departures throughout the day. Flagg Ranch Resort May-Sept (307) 543-2861 Whitewater and scenic trips. Only trips north of Jackson Lake. Snake River Angler May-Oct (307) 733-2853 Scenic rafting trips depart daily. Guided fishing trips. Grand Teton Lodge Co. May 23-Oct 30 (307) 543-2811 10-mile scenic float trips; guided fishing trips. Jack Dennis Fishing Trips May-Sept (307) 733-3270 Guided fishing float trips; fly or spin. Heart 6 Float Trips May-Sept (307) 543-2477 10-mile scenic trips and sunrise wildlife trips. National Park Float Trips May-Sept (307) 733-6445 10-mile scenic wildlife trips, group arrangements available. O.A.R.S. May-Sept (800) 346-6277 Sea kayak and float trips. Signal Mountain Lodge May 21-Sept 25 (307) 543-2831 10-mile scenic float trips. Solitude Float Trips May-Sept (307) 733-2871 10-mile scenic float trips. Triangle X Float May-Sept (307) 733-5500 5- and 10-mile scenic trips. Recycling Recycling stations are located throughout the park. Please check at any visitor center for more information.

Medical Services Medical Emergencies Call 911 St. John’s Medical Center (307) 733-3636 Located in Jackson. Grand Teton Medical Clinic May 23-Oct 3 (307) 543-2514 Located at Jackson Lake Lodge. Open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Worship Services Interdenominational Sundays, check at visitor centers for more information. Various Park Campgrounds May-Sept Provided by A Christian Ministry in the National Parks. Episcopal Chapel of Transfiguration May 29-Sept 25 (307) 733-2603 Sunday, Eucharist 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.

L.D.S. Sunday, Sacrament 9:30 a.m. and 5:45 p.m., Jackson Lake Lodge May 22-Sept 25 Sunday School 7 p.m., Priesthood/Relief Society 7:45 p.m.

Roman Catholic Chapel of the Sacred Heart June 1-Sept 30 (307) 733-2516 Saturday 5:30 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m., Holy Days 5:30 p.m.

2 TEEWINOT [Summer 2005] Grand Teton National Park www.nps.gov/grte/

Reading the Landscape Peak Names

The Teton Range dominates the skyline of the fault. Today, the mountains rise more Highway 26/89/191). Today, moraines Static Peak Grand Teton National Park, attracting the than a mile above Jackson Hole, with a support forests of lodgepole pine and other In the Teton Range north of Death attention of all who pass through Jackson total displacement of 30,000 feet. conifers. Elk and black bears seek refuge Canyon. Named because it is often hit Hole. The geologic events that created the and shade in morainal forests and graze in by lightning. dramatic scenery of Jackson Hole As recently as 12-14,000 years ago, small nearby meadows during cooler parts of the indirectly account for the distribution and mountain glaciers flowed from high day. Buck Mountain abundance of wildlife and plants found elevation cirques and gouged out U-shaped Named for George A. Buck, recorder for here. Herbivores – plant-eating animals canyons. Mountain glaciers spilled from The southern part of Jackson Hole T.M. Bannon’s 1898 mapping party. like moose, mule deer, and elk – inhabit the canyons to the valley floor, forming contains dry, poorly developed, rocky soils. Bannon gave the name "Buck Station" to As the climate warmed, glacial ice melted the triangulation station he and George and broke through the moraines, flowing Buck established on the summit in 1898. south through the valley and carrying away soil. Sagebrush, grasses, and wildflowers Grand Teton adapted to thrive in this rocky, dry Highest mountain in the Teton Range. landscape. Some mammals and birds favor Named by French trappers. Upon viewing the sagebrush flats, bison graze on grasses the Teton Range from the west, the there, and pronghorn eat sagebrush itself. trappers dubbed the South, Middle, and Sage grouse, large chicken-like birds, eat Grand, Les Trois Tetons, meaning ”the sagebrush leaves. three breasts.” Wilson Price Hunt called them ”Pilot Knobs” in 1811 because he For the past 10,000 years or so, the Snake had used them for orientation while River has cut through glacial moraines to crossing Union Pass. In his Journal of a flow through the southern end of Jackson Trapper, Osborne Russel said that the Hole. Old river terraces paralleling today’s Shoshone Indians named the peaks Snake River indicate that it once carried ”Hoary Headed Fathers.” much more water. Cottonwood and spruce trees, home to bald eagles, grow along the Mount Owen The Cathedral Group left to right: Teewinot, Grand, and Mt. Owen. Snake River. Beavers occasionally dam side Northeast of the Grand Teton. Named for channels of the Snake River, establishing W.O. Owen, who climbed the Grand areas where their food sources exist. basins now filled by Leigh, Jenny, Bradley, ponds that Canada geese and ducks use for Teton in 1898 with Bishop Spalding, John Carnivores – meat-eating animals such as Taggart, and Phelps lakes. Ridges of glacial nesting and feeding. Moose and beavers eat Shive, and Frank Petersen. bears, coyotes, and weasels – follow the debris, called moraines, surround these willows that flourish in wetlands along the herbivores they prey upon. lakes and mark the edge of the glaciers’ river. Willows and other wetland plants Teewinot flow. provide cover and nest sites for a multitude Towers above Cascade Canyon and Jenny The Tetons owe their existence to of songbirds. Lake. Its name comes from the Shoshone movement along a fault located on the While small glaciers flowed within the word meaning ”many pinnacles.” eastern front of the range. Starting about Teton Range, an icefield covered much of As you explore Grand Teton National Park, Teewinot probably once applied to the 13 million years ago, movement along this what is now Yellowstone National Park. read its landscape. Note the work of entire Teton Range, rather than just this fault, caused by massive earthquakes, Beginning 50,000-25,000 years ago, lobes glaciers on the mountains and canyons, and one peak. Fritiof Fryxell and Phil Smith occurred every several thousand years or from this icefield flowed south, gouging out the old river terraces carved by the Snake named the peak when they successfully so. The mountain block uplifted along the the depression that Jackson Lake fills today, River. Watch for the wildlife that provides completed the first ascent of the west side of the fault, while the valley and carrying debris as far as Snake River clues to the ancient processes that formed mountain in 1929. block dropped down on the east side of Overlook (eight miles north of Moose on and shaped this area. Mount Saint John Between Cascade and Paintbrush canyons. A series of peaks of nearly equal John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway height. Named for Orestes St. John, geologist of Hayden’s 1877 survey, whose monographs of the Teton and Wind River Located at the heart of the Greater ranges are now classics. Yellowstone Ecosystem, the Rockefeller Parkway connects Grand Teton and Mount Moran Yellowstone national parks. The late Most prominent peak in the northern conservationist and philanthropist John D. end of the Teton Range. Named by Rockefeller, Jr. made significant contributions Ferdinand V. Hayden for the landscape to several national parks including Grand artist Thomas Moran, who traveled with Teton, Acadia, Great Smoky Mountains, and the 1872 Hayden expedition into Virgin Islands. In 1972, Congress dedicated Yellowstone and into Pierre’s Hole on the a 24,000-acre parcel of land as the John D. western side of the Teton Range. He Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway to produced many sketches and watercolors recognize his generosity and foresight. Congress from these travels. also named the highway from the south boundary of Grand Teton to West Thumb in From the book Origins by Hayden Yellowstone in honor of Rockefeller. The contains features characteristic of both born of volcanic flows from the north line and Nielsen. Rockefeller Parkway provides a natural link areas. In the parkway, the northern Teton the Snake River and form outcroppings between the two national parks and Range tapers to a gentle slope, while rocks scattered atop hills and ridges.

TEEWINOT [Summer 2005] 3 Wildlife www.nps.gov/grte/ Where to Look For Wildlife The Always Keep a Safe Distance When Viewing Wildlife Migration All animals require food, water, and shelter. Antelope Flats Road, bison and pronghorn Each species also has particular living can be seen grazing in spring, summer, and space, or habitat, requirements. To learn fall. Also watch for coyotes, Northern Dilemma more about wildlife habitats and animal harriers, and American kestrels hunting behavior, attend ranger-led activities. mice, Uinta ground squirrels, and Birds serve as colorful, sweet-sounding grasshoppers in open fields. Sage grouse, indicators of biodiversity. The return of OXBOW BEND sage thrashers, and sparrows also frequent migratory birds each spring seems as One mile east of Jackson Lake Junction. the area. certain as spring itself. National parks Slow-moving water provides habitat for fish like Grand Teton provide sanctuary for such as suckers and trout, which become SNAKE RIVER many species. Unfortunately, many of food for river otters, ospreys, bald eagles, Jackson Lake Dam south to Moose. Elk and our birds spend only a part of their lives Moose within national park protection. When American white pelicans, and common bison graze in grassy meadows along the river. birds fly south each fall, they face mergansers. Look for swimming beavers and Bison also eat grasses in the sagebrush flats numerous perils. Human-caused habitat muskrats. Moose browse on abundant on the benches above the river. Bald eagles, changes have fragmented forests, willows at the water’s edge. Elk occasionally ospreys, and great blue herons build large removing safe feeding and roosting graze in open aspen groves to the east. stick nests within sight of the river. Beavers areas along migration corridors. Birds and moose eat willows that line the waterway. that migrate as far as the tropics may TIMBERED ISLAND lose their winter ranges due to A forested ridge southeast of Jenny Lake. CASCADE CANYON deforestation. Small bands of pronghorn antelope, the West of Jenny Lake. Look for, but do not fastest North American land mammal, forage feed, golden-mantled ground squirrels at Birdwatchers and scientists alike have on nearby sagebrush throughout the day. Elk Inspiration Point. Pikas and yellow-bellied become concerned about the future of leave the shade of Timbered Island at dawn marmots live in scattered boulder fields. migratory birds. Become involved by Golden-mantled ground squirrel enjoying birds in your backyard and and dusk to eat the grasses growing among Mule deer and moose occasionally browse during your travels. At home, plant the surrounding sagebrush. View wildlife on shrubs growing at the mouth of the 26/89/191. Old beaver ponds have filled in native vegetation to provide food, from your vehicle. canyon. Listen for the numerous songbirds and now support grassy meadows where shelter and nest sites for migratory that nest in the canyon. elk graze during the cooler parts of the day. birds. Protect birds by keeping your cats MORMON ROW Several kinds of ducks feed in the side indoors. Assist scientists measuring bird East of Highway 26/89/191, one mile north of BLACKTAIL PONDS channels of the Snake River. Moose browse population changes by participating in Moose Junction. Along Mormon Row and Half-mile north of Moose on Highway on willows growing along the river. bird counts and surveys, such as the annual Christmas Bird Count and the North American Migration Count. Find ® out about the Partners in Flight Give Wildlife a Brake program in your home state. Use your interest and knowledge of birds to help Moose, bison, elk, mule deer, pronghorn, black Rockefeller Parkway, Yellowstone National night. For your own safety and for the assure their future! and grizzly bears – a host of large animals Park, and surrounding areas. Animals are on protection of wildlife, please drive carefully and inhabit Grand Teton National Park, the roads and highways at any time of the day or stay alert.

What Kind of Bear Is That? For Wildlife Observers Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway provide habitat for black and grizzly bears. To distinguish between the two bear species, see below. and Photographers Grizzly Bear Color Ranges from blond to nearly black, sometimes have silver- Be a responsible wildlife observer. including increased levels of stress and the tipped hairs that give them a grizzled appearance. Remember that patience is rewarded. Use avoidance of essential feeding areas. binoculars, spotting scopes or long lenses Physical Features Grizzly bears have a dished, or concave, facial profile for close views and photographs. Always Please remember, nesting birds are easily and a large hump of heavy muscle above the maintain a safe distance of at least 300 disturbed. For wildlife, raising young is a shoulders. Their claws are long and relatively straight, feet from large animals such as bears, private affair. If an adult bird on a nest flies extending two or more inches (5 cm) beyond their toes. bison, moose, and elk. Never position off at your approach, circles you, or screams yourself between an adult and its offspring. in alarm – you are too close to the nest. Females with young are especially defensive. Unattended nestlings readily succumb to predation and exposure to heat, cold, and It is illegal to feed wildlife, including ground wet weather. squirrels and birds. Feeding wild animals 1 makes them dependent on people, and Allow other visitors a chance to enjoy 0 0 2

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animals often bite the hand that feeds them. wildlife. If your actions cause an animal to W C

flee, you have deprived other visitors of a ® Do not harass wildlife. Harassment is any viewing opportunity. Use an animal’s human action that causes unusual behavior, behavior as a guide to your actions, and Black Bear or a change of behavior, in an animal. limit the time you spend with wildlife, just Color Color is not a reliable indicator of the species. Contrary to Repeated encounters with people can have as you would when visiting a friend’s home. their name, black bears are often brown, cinnamon, and/or negative, long-term impacts on wildlife, Follow all park regulations and policies. blond in color.

Physical Features Black bears have a straight facial profile and lack a large hump above the shoulders. Their claws are short and curved, usually not extending more than 1.5 inches (4 cm) beyond their toes. 1 0 0 2

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S S ® E J Grizzly Bears

4 TEEWINOT [Summer 2005] Ecology www.nps.gov/grte/

LAWRENCE ORMSBY Natural Communities in the Park

The natural systems of Grand Teton FOREST COMMUNITIES long-tailed weasels, pine martens, mountain that are dominated by water. The Snake National Park and Jackson Hole create a There are a number of forest communities lions, and the rare wolverine. Williamson’s River and its tributaries drain the magnificent environment showcasing an in Grand Teton National Park. Because of sapsuckers, hairy woodpeckers, Steller’s mountains surrounding Jackson Hole, incredible diversity of vegetation and the variations in the height of trees, shrubs, and gray jays, olive-sided flycatchers, and providing a rich habitat for a variety of wildlife. Many natural communities in the and grasses, forests support a wide variety mountain chickadees are among the birds wildlife. Trout and other fish are a valuable park are defined by the plants and animals of animal species. The most extensive of the occupying this forest type. food source for bald eagles, ospreys, and that live within them. forest communities is the lodgepole pine river otters. The slower-moving braided forest community, which extends from the SAGEBRUSH COMMUNITIES channels of the river are home to beavers, southern portion of Yellowstone National The sagebrush community is the most otters, muskrats, and several reptiles and Park and along the lower elevations of the visible community in Grand Teton, covering amphibians. The Oxbow Bend is an Tetons to the south end of the range. Elk most of the valley floor. Rocky, well-drained excellent area to find white pelicans, great and mule deer find shade here during soils make it difficult for most plants to blue herons, and a variety of waterfowl. sunny, summer days. Red squirrels inhabit survive, but hardy big sage, low sage, Moose feed on aquatic plants and browse the trees, gathering seeds and storing them antelope bitterbrush, and more than 20 on streamside vegetation. for the long winter. Snowshoe hares, deer species of grasses thrive here. Though it mice, and red-backed voles are among the appears barren and sparse, this is a small mammals found on the forest floor. surprisingly diverse community. Black and grizzly bears, short-tailed weasels (ermine) and pine martens prey Sage grouse use sage for food, shelter, and ALPINE COMMUNITIES upon smaller animals. Colorful western nesting sites. Arrowleaf balsamroot and Plants and animals in the alpine community tanagers fly through the less dense parts of spring beauty add spring color to the silvery survive in the harshest of Grand Teton’s the forest canopy. green of the flats. Small mammals such as environments. High elevation, long winters, Uinta ground squirrels, deer mice and least and short summers present special Other forest communities include Douglas chipmunks make their homes here. Badgers challenges to the inhabitants above tree line. fir and spruce-fir forest communities. Stands can sometimes be seen digging burrows Summer is short and intense, with long, of Douglas fir are found while coyotes and bright days and cold nights. Lichens cling to on either dry, south- wolves may lope across rocks and miniature, low-growing mat- facing slopes up to about the cobbly plains. WET MEADOW COMMUNITIES forming plants, such as phlox and pussytoes, 8,000 feet or on dry Pronghorn are summer Wet meadows and willow flats are covered guard themselves from wind and cold by north-facing slopes at residents on the by water for at least part of the year. A high growing only inches above the soil. Since lower elevations. Voles, sagebrush flats; they water table and good soil make an bees are infrequent, many alpine flowers mice, and gophers also must migrate south to abundance of grasses, sedges, and forbs have unpleasant odors to attract pollinating live here; they are hunted avoid deep winter possible. Small mammals and birds that rely flies and other insects. The insects in turn by great horned owls. snows. Large herds of on this type of vegetation are common here. attract horned larks and white-crowned Other birds found amongst the Douglas fir elk feed on the grasses during the morning Willows also provide critical habitat for sparrows. The alpine forget-me-not rewards include chickadees, nuthatches, pine and evening hours of spring, summer, and moose, which feed heavily on them, hikers with its vibrant blue color. Yellow- siskins, Cassin’s finches, and fall. Areas where bitterbrush is abundant are especially in late winter. bellied marmots often sun themselves on dark-eyed juncos. good foraging places for moose, especially rocky hillsides as Clark’s nutcrackers fly in fall and winter. Birders can find western Whatever the community, it is important to overhead. Tiny rabbit-like pikas spend the Spruce-fir forests are dominated by meadowlarks, sage thrashers, green-tailed remember that the wildlife, plants, and warm months collecting and storing food for Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir and are towhees, vesper and Brewer’s sparrows, and habitats within Grand Teton National Park the long winter. Golden eagles sometimes often located at higher elevations. Moose raptors of many kinds among the sage. are protected. While birding or watching soar on warm air currents searching for prey. feed extensively on subalpine fir in the animals, please keep a respectful distance. By the time snow falls, most alpine residents winter months and elk and deer use these WETLAND COMMUNITIES Please do not pick or disturb the vegetation. have moved to lower elevations or begun a forests at other times during the year. Other Wetland and aquatic communities in and In order to continue to enjoy this national long winter hibernation. mammals can be found here, including around rivers, lakes, and marshes are those park, we must all work to preserve it.

TEEWINOT [Summer 2005] 5 Visiting the Park www.nps.gov/grte/ Self-Guiding Trails around the Park

Sample the cultural history, natural history, String Lake and mystery of Jackson Hole. Obtain free trail guides at visitor centers and trailheads. Expanded versions of the trail guides for Cascade Canyon, Taggart Lake and the Colter Bay area are also sold at park visitor centers.

CASCADE CANYON TRAIL Follow part or all of the Cascade Canyon Trail. From the east shore boat dock to Inspiration Point the distance is 5.8 miles roundtrip (2.2 miles via shuttle boat).

CUNNINGHAM CABIN TRAIL Cunningham Cabin is located 6 miles south of Moran. Take a 3/4-mile walk to learn about the early ranching history of Jackson Hole.

FLAGG RANCH AREA The Polecat Creek Loop Trail (2.3 miles) and nearby Flagg Canyon Trail (5.0 miles TAGGART LAKE TRAIL the formation of glacial lakes. picnic area, String Lake, and Jackson roundtrip) offer scenic hiking opportunities. The 3.2-mile Taggart Lake Trail traverses Lake overlook explain various Leaflets available at visitor centers. a major portion of the 1,028-acre Beaver COLTER BAY AREA aspects of fire ecology and local Creek fire of 1985. The trail begins at the A variety of trails lead from the fire history. MENOR’S FERRY TRAIL Taggart Lake parking area, 3 miles vicinity of the Colter Bay Visitor Center, A 1/2-mile loop begins at the Chapel of the northwest of Moose. including the Lakeshore Trail, paved SCENIC TURNOUTS Transfiguration parking lot in Moose, and for 1/3-mile. Consult interpretive signs at scenic passes Bill Menor’s cabin and ferry, and an ACCESS TRAIL AT STRING LAKE turnouts to learn about the natural history exhibit of historic photographs at the Maud A paved trail follows the shore of String FIRE WAYSIDES and geology of the Teton Range and Noble cabin. Lake for 1/4-mile. Wayside exhibits explain Interpretive signs at Cottonwood Creek Jackson Hole.

Menor’s Cabin Taggart Lake Trail

DAVE SMALDONE This is Bear Country

A FED BEAR IS A DEAD BEAR same manner as food, or placed in bear- Bears become aggressive after even one resistant trash cans or dumpsters. encounter with human food. Unfortunately, I Treat odorous products such as soap, people often feed bears without realizing it. deodorant, toothpaste, suntan lotion, and Help Save Bears often get food from backpacks and perfumes in the same manner as food. coolers that are left unattended in I For your safety, absolutely no food, campgrounds or along trails. Remember, foodstuffs, garbage, or odorous products Our Bears! bears can be anywhere in the park at any may be stored in tents or sleeping bags. Help us keep our bears wild and healthy. time, even if you can’t see them. Help keep I Ice chests, thermoses, water containers, Don’t leave backpacks, coolers, or bags park bears wild and safe. Keep your food barbecue grills, stoves, dishes, and pans containing food unattended for ANY items safe from bears by locking them in must be stored in the same way as food – amount of time. Take them with you or your car or a bear box. Failure to follow hidden inside a locked auto or bear box. put them in a car or bear box. Even regulations is a violation of federal law and food that is left out accidentally can may result in citations and fines. BEAR ETIQUETTE mean removal or death for a bear. I If you encounter a bear, do not run. If the Report all bear sightings and incidents KEEP A CLEAN CAMP bear is unaware of you, detour quickly and to a visitor center or ranger station. After eating and before leaving camp or quietly. If the bear is aware but has not sleeping, assure that you have a clean, bear- acted aggressively, back slowly away while proof campsite: talking in an even tone. I Never throw your pack or food at a bear I All food, containers, and utensils must be I Never approach a bear for any reason. in an attempt to distract it. stored in a bear box or hidden in a closed, I Never allow a bear to get human food. If I Never bury food scraps, containers, or locked vehicle with windows rolled up. approached while eating, put food away and fish entrails. Put them in garbage cans. The only exceptions are during the retreat to a safe distance (100 yards/91 meters). I Never leave food, containers, or garbage

transport, preparation, and eating of food. E I Never abandon food because of an unattended in camp. Bears are active day E L

S S E I Trash and garbage must be stored in the J approaching bear. Always take it with you. and night.

6 TEEWINOT [Summer 2005]

Ranger Activities www.nps.gov/grte/

Walks & Hikes For talks and evening programs see page D.

Area Event Description Meeting Place Date/Time SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT

Moose/ Inspiration Learn about the creation of this magnificent landscape on a Jenny Lake Visitor June 6-Sept 5 IIIIIII Jenny Lake Point Hike hike to Hidden Falls and a viewpoint above Jenny Lake. We Center Flagpole 8:30 a.m Area will take the boat across Jenny Lake. This activity is first-come, first-served and is limited to 25. Please obtain a token for each member of your group at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center prior to meeting the ranger. Boat fare (Roundtrip/One-way): adult $7.50/$5, child (5-12) $5/$4, 4 and under free. ROUNDTRIP HIKE 1 DISTANCE: 2 miles. DIFFICULTY: Moderate uphill. TIME: 2 ⁄2 hours.

A Walk Into Discover the story of Menor’s Ferry Historic District and find Menor’s Ferry June 6-Sept 5 IIIIIII The Past out how early settlers crossed the Snake River on a cable Dock 11 a.m. ferry. Wheelchair accessible trail. DIFFICULTY: Easy. 2 p.m. TIME: 45 minutes.

Wildflower Learn about the flowers that add color to the valley. Taggart Lake June 6-July 31 IIIIIII Walk ROUNDTRIP DISTANCE: 2 miles. DIFFICULTY: Easy. TIME: 2 hours. Trailhead 9:30 a.m.

Young Children 8-12 years old are invited to explore the natural Jenny Lake Visitor June 12-Aug 20 IIII Naturalists world of Grand Teton with a ranger. Make reservations at the Center Flagpole 1:30 p.m. Ends Ends Ends Ends Moose, Jenny Lake, or Colter Bay visitor centers. Wear old 8/14 8/16 8/18 8/20 clothes and bring water, rain gear, insect repellent, and curiosity. Parents, please pick up your children promptly at 3 p.m. at the same location. Group size 12. ROUNDTRIP DISTANCE: 1 2 miles. DIFFICULTY: Easy, level. TIME: 1 ⁄2 hours.

Naturalist’s Activity will vary depending on the naturalist. Reservations Moose June 6-Sept 5 Dates, times, and topics will vary. Please Choice may be required. Please check with the Moose Visitor Center Visitor Center Dates/times vary. check with the Moose Visitor Center. for specifics.

Colter Bay Swan Lake Unravel mysteries and sharpen your senses as you hike with a Colter Bay Visitor June 6-Sept 5 IIIIIII Area Hike ranger through forest, meadows and along ponds east of Center Flagpole 8:00 a.m. Colter Bay. Bring water, binoculars, camera, rain gear and insect repellent. ROUNDTRIP DISTANCE: 3 miles. TIME: 3 hours.

Young See Young Naturalists description above. Colter Bay June 13-Aug 19 I I I Naturalists Visitor Center 1:30 p.m. Ends Ends Ends 8/15 8/17 8/19

Lakeshore Join the ranger for a leisurely one-hour stroll to enjoy Colter Bay Visitor June 6-Sept 5 IIIIIII Stroll panoramic views of the Teton Range and learn about the Center Flagpole 1:30 p.m. creation of the landscape.

Naturalist’s Activity will vary depending on the naturalist. Reservations Colter Bay June 6-Sept 5 Dates, times, and topics will vary. Please Choice may be required. Please check with the Colter Bay Visitor Visitor Center Dates/times vary. check with the Colter Bay Visitor Center. Center for specifics.

Visitor Centers Indian Arts Museum Located in the Colter Bay Visitor Center, the Indian Arts Museum houses the David T. Vernon Collection, a spectacular assemblage of Native American artifacts. Native American art has spiritual significance in Moose Visitor Center addition to beauty and function. The artifacts in the museum are vivid examples of the diverse art forms (307) 739-3399. Located at Moose, 1/2-mile west of Moose Junction of Native Americans. From June to September, interpretive activities such as craft demonstrations on the Teton Park Road. Open daily. by tribal members and ranger-led museum tours enhance appreciation of Native American culture. Through June 5 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 6-Sept 5 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. After Sept 5 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Menor’s Ferry Historic District Colter Bay Visitor Center & Indian Arts Museum Located just north of the Moose Visitor Center. Includes a self-guiding path and the historic Menor (307) 739-3594. Located 1/2-mile west of Colter Bay Junction on Store, which is open daily 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from May 23 through September 26. Inquire at Highway 89-191-287. the Moose Visitor Center. May 8-May 28 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 29-Sept 6 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sept 7-Oct 10 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Artists in the Environment Jackson Hole attracts artists from all over the world. This summer you can observe professional Jenny Lake Visitor Center artists demonstrating their techniques and capturing the essence of Grand Teton National Park. Located 8 miles north of Moose Junction on the Teton Park Road. Check at visitor centers for demonstration times and locations. Sponsored by Grand Teton Natural June 6-Sept 5 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. History Association. Program dates: June 11, July 9, August 13, September 10. Sept 6-Sept 30 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Flagg Ranch Information Station Writers in the Environment (307) 543-2372. Located at Flagg Ranch, 16 miles north of Colter Bay on Highway Local writers will share their talents by offering writing exercises for park visitors in various areas of the 89-191-287. park. All workshop leaders are inspiring writers and teachers who draw on the natural and cultural June 6-Sept 5 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. values of the park in their published works. Check at visitor centers for times and locations. Sponsored by Grand Teton Natural History Association. Program dates: June 11, July 9, August 13, September 10.

TEEWINOT [Summer 2005] A Grand Events www.nps.gov/grte/

Little Sunflower Indian Paintbrush

Lupine

Dave Smaldone Wildflowers

During late spring and summer, colorful purple lupines, pink sticky geraniums, and cushions to avoid wind and to cope with and flowering shrubs, especially pink wildflowers provide breathtaking displays purple upland larkspur. cold temperatures and the short growing spreading dogbane and snowbrush throughout the park. Blooming follows season. Look for pink moss campion and ceanothus, with its sweet-scented blossoms. snowmelt, so the show moves upslope as As snow melts in the canyons between the blue alpine forget-me-not, the official the season progresses. Teton peaks, hikers are treated to meadows flower of Grand Teton National Park. Sections of the Rockefeller Parkway with an exquisite mix of colors: yellow Alpine plants are well adapted to their burned in 1988 when a number of fires June brings flowers to the southern half of columbine, bluebells, red paintbrush, pink environment, but they are extremely ignited throughout the Greater Jackson Hole. Clumps of arrowleaf daisies, and lavender asters. Along canyon vulnerable to human disturbance. Be sure to Yellowstone Ecosystem. Today look for balsamroot, – a yellow, daisy-like flower streams, the vegetation is lush and includes stay on established trails. fireweed, purple asters, yellow groundsel, with arrow-shaped leaves – add vivid deep purple monkshood and tall cow and sticky geranium in a lush carpet of splashes of color to the sagebrush flats. parsnip, with its immense, flat-topped white Recently burned areas offer spectacular green grasses. Spikes of blue-purple lupines, a member of flower clusters. Canyons with especially displays of wildflowers due to increased the pea family, flower along streams. magnificent wildflower displays include access to sunlight and the fertilizing effect To help you enjoy the flowering plants of upper Open, Cascade, and aptly named of nitrogen-rich ash. At the Taggart Lake Grand Teton National Park, you may attend During July, the meadows along Highway Paintbrush. area, three miles north of Moose, a fire ranger-led hikes starting in June, or consult 89/191/287 north of Colter Bay, and those burned in 1985 and today wildflowers field guides and other books on display at near Two Ocean Lake, reach peak In high alpine areas above tree line, the bloom amid stands of aspen saplings and visitor centers. Please leave wildflowers for flowering. Look for yellow mountain flowers are diminutive, but worth stooping numerous young lodgepole pines. Look for others to appreciate. Do not pick any sunflowers, pink mountain hollyhock, for. Alpine flowers grow in ground-hugging magenta fireweed, yellow heartleaf arnica, vegetation in the park and parkway.

Noxious Weeds Threaten Native Plants

If you spot the following weeds, especially Wanted! Wanted! Wanted! outside of the areas listed, please report their exact location at a visitor center. Common St. Johns Wort Saltcedar (tamarisk) Leafy Spurge Please do not attempt to remove these weeds yourself. All of these species are capable of reproducing from their roots and pulling them can break the roots, aiding in their spread.

Noxious weeds present a serious threat to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem by replacing native plant communities, degrading wildlife habitat and, in the case of saltcedar, using large amounts of a limited supply of water. This is why we need your help identifying noxious weeds throughout Grand Teton National Park. The three species described here Small shrubs or trees with small leaves currently occur in low populations; early identification of any that are alternate, overlap each other and new infestations will be crucial to our eradication efforts. Grows to three feet tall usually in dense appear scale-like (similar to a cedar tree Grows to three feet tall. Paired, heart- stands. Yellow flowers with five petals or juniper). Flowers are borne in finger- shaped, yellow-green bracts support Leafy Spurge St. John’s Wort and many stamens appear in early like clusters and are small, pink to white yellow-green flowers. Leaves are narrow summer. The leaves of St. Johnswort and have five petals. Saltcedar has and arranged alternately along thickly provide a very handy identification tool – replaced native riparian vegetation in clustered stems. One key to if held up to a light source, tiny areas throughout the West, especially identification is to break the plant along transparent dots are visible (see picture). along the Colorado River system. Small the stem. It will contain a milky juice Most infestations are located in the infestations have been found along the (latex) similar to a dandelion. The only southern area of the park along the Snake River and any sightings should be known infestation in the park is near the Moose-Wilson Road. reported immediately. Granite Entrance Station.

B TEEWINOT [Summer 2005] Grand Events www.nps.gov/grte/ An Outdoor Laboratory: Current Research in Grand Teton

Along with protecting significant POPULATION STRUCTURE, HABITAT USE, natural and cultural features and AND DISTRIBUTION OF GRIZZLY BEARS providing for their enjoyment, Congress Ten years ago, grizzly bears, a threatened recognized the value of national parks species, were rarely seen in Grand Teton. as some of the world’s most important Today, however, they are common, especially outdoor laboratories. Grand Teton in the northern half of the park. As part of an National Park is no exception in ecosystem effort, this project aims to providing an unparalleled research determine the health of the grizzly population, setting. As part of the Greater their distribution in the park, and which Yellowstone Ecosystem, Grand Teton is habitats are most important. Information an integral component of the world’s from this study will help managers protect largest intact temperate ecosystem. important habitats and plan for visitor use Below are just a few of the park’s patterns that minimize disturbance to grizzlies. dozens of on-going research projects that are conducted by park staff, BRUCELLOSIS IN BISON universities, and private research Since at least 1935, some bison and elk in the institutions. The results of these studies Yellowstone ecosystem have had brucellosis, and many others like them furnish park a disease brought to the U.S. by cattle imported managers with critical information from Europe. While the disease is relatively needed for long-term conservation unimportant in wildlife, it can devastate planning. domestic cattle herds. Because a small potential exists for bison or elk to transmit the disease to uninfected cattle, researchers are interested in several aspects of how the disease exists and is transmitted among wild bison. The results of this project will help managers avoid conflicts with cattle that graze on public lands.

WOLVES ARE HERE! Wolves were restored to Yellowstone National Park in 1995 after being eliminated in the early 1900s. The reintroduction of wolves is part of the larger goal of the recovery and conservation of endangered species in the U.S. The Yellowstone-Grand Teton population now consists of over 200 Path of the Pronghorn wolves. In the winter of 1998-99 three groups of wolves frequented Grand Teton Migration is considered by many to be one of deployed on ten adult female pronghorn. National Park. Two of these groups stayed the most interesting ecological adaptations The radio collars were programmed to fall in the area and produced pups – the first in the animal kingdom. The pronghorn that off after one year. A total of 11,480 wolves to den in Jackson Hole in 50 years! summer in Jackson Hole have the second positions were collected and a fascinating largest terrestrial mammal migration migration story unfolded. The data WOLVERINE ECOLOGY This elusive predator is believed to occur in remaining in the Western Hemisphere. illustrated the use of an ancient, invariant low densities in the park. Researchers will and narrow corridor through the upper attempt to determine the status and Researchers at Grand Teton National Park, in Green and Gros Ventre River drainages. distribution of the wolverine in this part of collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation the Yellowstone ecosystem, and how it Society, have recently completed a study to As human development expands, the responds to visitor use patterns. Park investigate the movements of pronghorn migrations of many animals will continue to managers will use information obtained by and the exact route they traveled. be threatened. Researchers hope that data this study to develop plans and take collected from this project will lead to the necessary steps for long-term wolverine In October 2003, radio collars were protection of the “path of the pronghorn.” conservation.

Using Global Positioning Systems to Track Bear Movements

Grand Teton National Park biologists are human food reward, she quickly became 2002, all three bears were dead. One cub using global positioning system (GPS) more aggressive in her raids, ripping into died of natural causes soon after emerging technology to track the movements of tents that contained food, breaking into from the family’s den – possibly because of bears. The study, which has been made coolers left in canoes, and stealing poor nutrition the previous year. The other possible by financial assistance from the unattended daypacks. During the summer cub and its mother were both destroyed National Park Foundation, will provide park of 2000, she taught her two cubs these after their aggressive actions became a managers with a better understanding of same behaviors. threat to human safety. how human activities affect bears, and provide them with the tools necessary to In an effort to break this pattern, the entire Monitoring this bear family reaffirmed that assure long-term conservation of their family was trapped and moved to a remote moving problem bears seldom resolves a populations. area of the park in August of that year. bad situation, and highlighted the need Unfortunately, the bears quickly returned to for visitors to keep food secure at all The red dots on the map show locations of their home range near Jenny Lake, and times. It also provided insights into habitat an adult female black bear fitted with a resumed their unnatural way of life. characteristics that are important for GPS radio collar from August 2000 to June Disturbingly, it was the continued bears. Using this and similar information 2001. This bear lived in the Jenny Lake availability of unsecured human foods, in from other bears, park managers will area and became a nuisance bear after spite of an escalated ranger patrol and employ measures to minimize bear-human learning to seek human foods that were education program, that made this conflicts and help assure bear populations stored improperly. After her first small possible. By the end of the summer of remain wild and healthy.

TEEWINOT [Summer 2005] C

Ranger Activities www.nps.gov/grte/

See page A for visitor center information and a list of walks and talks offered throughout the park. Additional ranger activities will be offered during the Talks & Evening Programs summer. Check at a visitor center for special hikes and programs not listed here.

Area Event Description Meeting Place Date/Time SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT

Moose/ Teton Profiles A 20-minute talk on a variety of topics. From the park’s Moose Visitor June 6-Sept 5 IIIIIII Jenny Lake geologic story to learning about the variety of wildlife that Center 9 a.m., 11 a.m., Area call this park home, this program will give you insight to the 1 p.m., 3 p.m. stories behind the scenery. Wheelchair accessible.

Gros Ventre A 45-minute, slide-illustrated ranger talk. Topics are posted Gros Ventre June 6-July, 9:30 p.m. IIIIIII Campfire on visitor center, amphitheater, and campground bulletin Campground Aug-Sept 5, 9 p.m. Program boards. Wheelchair accessible. Amphitheater

Jenny Lake Gather for a traditional ranger talk. Topics posted on visitor Jenny Lake June 15-Sept 3 I III Twilight center, amphitheater, and campground bulletin boards. Camp Circle 7:30 p.m. Talk 45 minutes.

Jenny Lake Join a ranger for a relaxing one-hour, scenic boat cruise on South Jenny Lake June 14-Sept 1 I II Cruise Jenny Lake. For reservations call Jenny Lake Boating at (307) Boat Dock 6:30 p.m. 734-9227. The cruise costs $12 for adults and $7 for ages 7-12.

Signal A 45-minute, slide-illustrated ranger talk. Topics are posted Signal June 6-July, 9:30 p.m. IIIIIII Mountain on visitor center, amphitheater, and campground bulletin Campground Aug-Sept 5, 9 p.m Campfire boards. Wheelchair accessible. Amphitheater Program

Colter Bay Museum Tour a spectacular collection of Native American art and artifacts Colter Bay Visitor June 6-Sept 5 IIIIIII Area Grand Tour while learning about the native people who made them. 45 minutes. Center Lobby 4 p.m.

Teton Wondering what to do and see in the park? Join a ranger for Colter Bay Visitor June 6-Sept 5 IIIIIII Highlights some great ideas. 30 minutes. Wheelchair accessible. Center Auditorium 11 a.m. & 3 p.m.

Indian Arts Join the ranger for an in-depth look at a facet of Native Colter Bay Visitor June 7-Sept 2 II & Culture American art and culture. 45 minutes. Wheelchair accessible. Center Auditorium 1:30 p.m.

Evening on Join the ranger on the back deck of Jackson Lake Lodge for Jackson Lake June 6-Sept 5 IIIIIII the Back Deck answers to your questions about Grand Teton National Park. Lodge Back Deck Anytime from Look through the spotting scope at some of the best bird and 6:30-8 p.m. moose habitat in the park. Wheelchair accessible.

Featured A look into the habits and habitats of a featured creature in Colter Bay June-July, 7:30 p.m. I I I I I II Creature the park. 45 minutes. Wheelchair accessible. Amphitheater Aug-Sept, 7 p.m.

Lizard Creek Gather around the campfire circle for a traditional ranger talk. Lizard Creek June-July, 8 p.m., I I I I Campfire Topics posted at various locations. Wheelchair accessible. Campfire Circle Aug-Sept, 7:30 p.m. Program Starts June 9.

Jackson Lake Join the ranger for a 45-minute, slide-illustrated talk in Jackson Jackson Lake June 27-Aug 13 I I I II Lodge Lake Lodge’s Wapiti Room. Topics are posted on the lodge Lodge Wapiti 8:30 p.m. bulletin board. Wheelchair accessible. Room

Colter Bay Join the ranger for a 45-minute, slide-illustrated ranger talk. Colter Bay June-July, 9:30 p.m. IIIIIII Campfire Topics are posted at amphitheater, campground, and visitor Amphitheater Aug-Sept, 9 p.m. Program center bulletin boards. Wheelchair accessible.

Flagg Ranch Gather around the campfire for a traditional ranger talk. Flagg Ranch June-July, 8 p.m. III Campfire Topics and location of campfire program are posted at Flagg Cabin Area Aug-Sept, 7:30 p.m. Program Ranch Information Station, Lodge and campground.

D TEEWINOT [Summer 2005] Visiting the Park www.nps.gov/grte/

For Your Safety Teton Weather

PLANTS & ANIMALS Colter Bay Marina, Colter Bay Village Store, L A R U N B R Y N L G P T V C N All plants and animals are part of the natural and Flagg Ranch Lodge. Fishing in A E A P A U U E C O E N J F M A M JU J A S O N D A processes and are protected within the park Yellowstone National Park requires a separate Avg. Max. Temp. (F) 25.7 31.1 39.0 49.0 60.9 70.6 79.8 78.8 68.9 55.9 38.0 26.0 52.0 and parkway. Leave plants and animals in their permit (fee charged); purchase permits at natural setting for others to enjoy. Even Yellowstone visitor centers and ranger stations. Avg. Min. Temp. (F) 1.2 3.6 11.9 22.1 30.9 37.2 41.2 39.6 32.2 23.2 13.7 1.5 21.5 picking wildflowers is prohibited. Keep a The use of non-native baitfish is prohibited in Avg. Total Precip. (in.) 2.61 2.00 1.60 1.45 1.96 1.80 1.22 1.37 1.44 1.24 2.14 2.47 21.3 respectful distance from all animals to avoid all parks. Avg. Total Snow (in.) 44.4 30.0 20.6 9.3 2.8 0.1 0 0 0.5 4.4 25.2 39.2 176.5 disturbing their natural routines. Larger Avg. Snow Depth (in.) 28.0 34.0 32.0 13.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4.0 16.0 11.0 animals are quick, powerful, and JACKSON LAKE unpredictable. Getting too close can result in Continued drought conditions are causing low serious injury. Take special care to avoid water levels in Jackson Lake. Contact visitor encounters with bears and to help maintain centers for information on the availability of BACKPACKING infection. Obtain more information at any their natural fear of humans. Many small services at Leek's Marina and Colter Bay Grand Teton National Park has more than 230 ranger station or visitor center. animals can carry diseases and should never Marina. Low water levels will increase the risk miles of trails of varying difficulty. Obtain the be touched or handled. Allow them to find all of boats striking submerged objects and required, free backcountry permit for PETS their own food. Their natural diet assures their landforms that are normally well beneath the overnight trips at the Moose or Colter Bay Pets must be restrained on a leash at all times. health and survival. No matter how surface. Use caution when boating. visitor centers or the Jenny Lake Ranger Pets are not allowed on park trails or in the convincingly the animals beg, feeding is Station. One-third of backcountry campsites backcountry (which begins 50 feet from prohibited. BOATING in high use areas may be reserved in advance roadways), in boats on the Snake River, in Motorboats are permitted on Jenny (10 from January 1 - May 15 by writing the park; boats on lakes other than Jackson Lake, or in HIKING horsepower maximum), Jackson, and Phelps there is a fee of $15 per reservation. Pets are visitor centers. Pets are not allowed on ranger- Hikers are reminded to stay on trails; lakes. Human-powered vessels are permitted not allowed on park trails or in the backcountry. led activities. Kennels are available in Jackson. shortcutting is prohibited because it damages on Jackson, Jenny, Phelps, Emma Matilda, Two fragile vegetation and causes erosion. Visitor Ocean, Taggart, Bradley, Bearpaw, Leigh, and CAMPFIRES CLIMBING centers and the Jenny Lake Ranger Station sell String lakes. Sailboats, water skiing, and Campfires are allowed without a permit at There are many risks and hazards associated topographic maps and inexpensive trail guides. windsurfers are allowed only on Jackson Lake. designated campgrounds and picnic areas with climbing and mountain travel. Experience Sturdy footwear is essential. Know your For motorized craft, the fee is $10 for a 7-day within installed or designated fire rings, unless and good judgment are essential. The Jenny limitations when traveling in the backcountry. permit and $20 for an annual permit; for non- fire restrictions are in effect. A permit may be Lake Ranger Station, the center for climbing If you are traveling alone, letting a friend or motorized craft, the fee is $5 for a 7-day permit obtained for campfires below the high water in Grand Teton National Park, is staffed from relative know your planned destination, route, and $10 for an annual permit. Jet skis are line of Jackson Lake at the Colter Bay Visitor late May to mid-September by climbing rangers and expected time of return will greatly prohibited on all waters within the park. Center. Campfires are prohibited in all other who can provide up-to-date weather and increase your chance of survival in an Permits may be purchased at the Moose or areas of the park and parkway. route conditions. Registration is not required emergency. Permits are not required for day Colter Bay visitor centers. for day climbs and cross-country hiking. hiking. Trailhead parking areas fill early during SWIMMING Backcountry permits are required for all overnight the day in July and August, so start your hike FLOATING THE SNAKE RIVER Swimming is permitted in all lakes. There is a climbs. The park DOES NOT check to see early to avoid parking problems. In spring, Only human-powered rafts, canoes, dories designated swimming beach at Colter Bay with that you get safely out of the backcountry. many trails are snow-covered and you may and kayaks are allowed on the Snake River picnic facilities; however, there are no Leave an agenda with friends or family. Solo need an ice axe. within the park and parkway. Registration ($5 lifeguards. The Snake River is a swift and cold climbing and backcountry travel is not advised. for a 7-day permit; $10 for an annual permit) of river presenting numerous dangers; swimming FISHING non-motorized vessels is required and may be is not recommended. BIKING Whitefish and cutthroat, lake, and brown trout completed at the Moose Visitor Center or Bicycles are permitted on public paved and inhabit lakes and rivers of the park and Colter Bay Visitor Center. Read the launch site HOT SPRINGS unpaved roadways with automobiles and on parkway. Obtain fishing regulations at the bulletin boards for current river conditions. Thermal water can harbor organisms that the Colter Bay Marina breakwater. Ride on Moose, Jenny Lake, or Colter Bay visitor On the surface, the Snake does not seem very cause a fatal meningitis infection and Legionnaires’ the right side of the road in single file and centers. A Wyoming fishing license is required powerful, but only experienced floaters should disease. Exposing your head to thermal water wear a helmet at all times. Riding bicycles or for fishing in the park and parkway and may attempt this swift, cold river that has many by immersion, splashing, touching your face, other wheeled vehicles in the backcountry, be purchased at Signal Mountain Lodge, braided channels and debris jams. or inhaling steam increases your risk of on- or off-trail, is prohibited.

Make the Most of Your Park Visit

Short on time? Wondering how to make the limited. Trailers or large motor homes are Ranger-Led Activities most of your time in Grand Teton National not permitted. During summer, join a ranger for a visitor Park? Take a look at a few of the suggestions center talk, museum tour, stroll, hike, or below to help plan your visit. Use the map on Jackson Lake Dam Overlook evening program. Attend these activities to page 12. The distance from the south Jackson Lake Dam, one mile west of Jackson Lake learn more about the natural and human entrance of Yellowstone National Park to the Junction on the Teton Park Road, raises the level history of the park and parkway. south boundary of Grand Teton National Park of Jackson Lake a maximum of 39 feet. In is 56 miles; approximate driving time with no addition to being a reservoir, Jackson Lake is also Take a Hike stops is 11/2 hours. Please follow posted speed a natural lake formed by an immense glacier Over 250 miles of hiking trails in the park limits, watch for wildlife on roads, and be that once flowed from the Yellowstone plateau. and parkway range from level and easy prepared for occasional delays due to road Park on the southwest side of the dam and take trails on the valley floor to steep, arduous construction. a short walk for a peaceful view of Jackson Lake trails into the mountains. At visitor and Mt. Moran. centers, ask a ranger for recommended Menor’s Ferry/Chapel of the Transfiguration hikes and look at, or purchase, maps Turn off the Teton Park Road 1/2-mile north of Oxbow Bend and trail guides. Moose. The Menor’s Ferry Trail, less than Located one mile east of Jackson Lake Junction, 1/2-mile long, affords a look at homesteading this cut-off meander of the Snake River attracts Raft Trips on the Snake River and pioneer life in Jackson Hole. Visit Bill a wide variety of wildlife. Mt. Moran, the most Park and parkway concessioners operate trips Menor’s cabin and country store. View a replica massive peak in the Teton Range, dominates on the Snake River daily in summer. Watch for of the ferry that crossed the Snake River at the the background. moose along the banks and bald eagles and turn of the century. The altar window of the American white pelicans soaring above. Chapel of the Transfiguration frames the tallest Willow Flats Teton peaks. Stop at the Willow Flats Turnout, six miles Ride a Bike south of Colter Bay for a view of an extensive The Jenny Lake Scenic Drive has wide shoulders Antelope Flats/Kelly Loop abandoned hayfields and ranches to rejoin wetlands that provides excellent habitat for and superb views of the Tetons. The Antelope At Gros Ventre Junction, 5 miles south of Highway 26/89/191. birds, beavers, and moose. Jackson Lake and Flats-Kelly Loop provides riding opportunities on Moose Junction on Highway 26/89/191, turn the Teton Range form the backdrop. secondary roads. Wear helmets and use east. Follow the road to the small town of Signal Mountain Summit Road caution. Ride bicycles only where cars can Kelly. To see the Gros Ventre Slide, turn at the This 5-mile drive starts one mile south of Signal Colter Bay Visitor Center/ legally go; bicycles are not allowed on trails sign marked ”National Forest Access.” The Mountain Lodge and Campground. The road Indian Arts Museum or in the backcountry. Gros Ventre Slide occurred in 1925 when winds to the top of Signal Mountain, 800 feet Visit the museum to view art created by earthquakes and rain caused the north end of above the valley. Summit overlooks provide a native people and get a glimpse of Horseback Riding Sheep Mountain to slide and dam the Gros panoramic view of the entire Teton Range, nineteenth-century Native American life. Park concessioners offer horseback rides at Ventre River, forming Lower Slide Lake. Jackson Lake, and most of Jackson Hole. The Native American and wildlife videotapes are Colter Bay, Jackson Lake Lodge, and Follow the Antelope Flats Road along road is narrow and parking at overlooks is shown throughout the day. Flagg Ranch.

TEEWINOT [Summer 2005] 7 Camping www.nps.gov/grte/

Camping in the Park Campgrounds

Open Filling Time There are two trailer villages and five in campsites is not permitted, and there are campgrounds in Grand Teton National Park no overflow facilities. Gros Ventre 361 Sites, trailer dumping station. May 1 – Oct. 15 Evening or may not fill and John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. All are operated by park GROUP CAMPING Jenny Lake concessioners. There are eight campsites on Reservations are available for group 51 sites, restricted to tents. May 15 – Sept. 25 8:00 a.m.

Grassy Lake Road that have no potable camping at Colter Bay and Gros Ventre Signal Mountain water and are free of charge. campgrounds. The sites range in capacity 80 sites, 30-foot vehicle max, trailer dumping station May 7 – Oct. 16 10:00 a.m. from 10 to 100 people. The nightly use fee is CAMPGROUNDS $3 per person plus a $15 nonrefundable Colter Bay The campground fee is $15 per night per site reservation fee. Organized groups such as 350 sites, trailer dumping station, propane available, laundry and showers nearby May 27 – Sept. 25 Mid-afternoon and $7.50 for Golden Age/Golden Access youth, religious, and educational groups cardholders. Jenny Lake and Colter Bay may use the group campsites. Advance Lizard Creek 63 sites, 30-foot vehicle max June 3 – Sept. 6 Late afternoon have hiker/biker sites available for $5 per reservations are required and may be made night. Jenny Lake Campground is open only through the Grand Teton Lodge Company for tent camping. All campgrounds have at (800) 628-9988 or (307) 543-3100. modern comfort stations, but do not have utility hookups. TRAILER VILLAGES concessioners. Grand Teton Lodge Colter Bay and Flagg Ranch trailer Company operates the campgrounds at The maximum length of stay is seven days villages have full hook-ups, showers, and Colter Bay, Jenny Lake and Gros Ventre, per person at Jenny Lake and 14 days at all laundry. Colter Bay has 112 sites. Flagg while Signal Mountain Lodge operates other campgrounds – no more than 30 days Ranch has 100 trailer and 75 tent sites. Lizard Creek and Signal Mountain in the park per year. These campgrounds Advance reservations are advisable. See campgrounds. operate on a first-come, first-served basis page 2 for details. and advance reservations are not accepted. These concessioners fund campground Campgrounds often fill during July and Check at park visitor centers for improvements as a part of their contracts. August. Approximate filling times are listed. information concerning additional trailer Improvements for 2005 include the For status of campgrounds, contact parks or campgrounds located outside placement of recycling containers in park entrance stations or visitor centers. the park. campgrounds. Collectively, these two Additional camping facilities are available in concessioners recycle more than 170 tons of nearby national forests and other areas RECYCLING CENTERS material annually. When you stay in any outside the park. Camping is not permitted All campgrounds in Grand Teton National park campground, please use the recycling within the park along roadsides, in Park and John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial containers to help keep Grand Teton clean overlooks, or in parking areas. Doubling up Parkway are managed by authorized and pleasant for other campers.

Water Warning Backcountry Cool, crystal clear stream water looks tempting to drink. As more and more people camp and hike in the Comfort backcountry, the incidence of intestinal infection from Pit toilets are provided at many drinking untreated water has increased throughout the trailheads, but there are no toilets in West. Giardia, campylobacter, and other harmful the backcountry. Be sure to urinate at bacteria may be transmitted through untreated water. least 200 feet from streams and lakes. Drinking untreated water can make you ill. Carry To prevent contamination of waterways, bury feces in a hole 6-8 sufficient water from approved sources, such as water inches deep at least 200 feet from spigots and drinking fountains in the park and parkway, streams and lakes. Pack out used toilet when hiking or enjoying any outdoor activity. If you paper, tampons, sanitary napkins, and must use water from lakes or streams, boil water 3-5 diapers in sealed plastic bags. Do not minutes to kill harmful microorganisms or filter with an bury or burn them. approved device.

8 TEEWINOT [Summer 2005]

Park Partners www.nps.gov/grte/

Entrance Fees 2005 Fee Schedule for Grand Teton National Park

All Americans support national parks federal sites to increase entrance and Entrance Fee through tax dollars. Congress allocates other fees. The parks were authorized to $20 per vehicle • $10 per person (single hiker or bicyclist) • $15 per motorcycle some of those tax dollars to each park keep 80 percent of the fees collected in Allows entrance to Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks for 7 days. area. However, costs for achieving the park to address the backlog of National Park Service goals in Grand projects. In 2005, money generated Golden Eagle Passport $65 Teton and other national parks have through the program in Grand Teton Allows entrance to most national park areas and some other federal fee areas for 12 months greatly increased in recent years. National Park will be used for: from purchase; non-transferable. Operational funding has not kept pace National Parks Pass $50 with escalating needs. Unfortunately, I On-going trail rehabilitation projects. Allows entrance to most national park areas for 12 months from purchase; non-transferable. funding available through the I Rehabilitation and improvements to wastewater treatment facilities in Colter appropriation process is sufficient only to Parks Specific Pass $40 Bay, Beaver Creek, and Flagg Ranch. conduct the yearly operation of the park. Allows entrance to Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks for 12 months from I Resurfacing roads in the north district Money is not available for major purchase; non-transferable. of the park, including roads between maintenance projects involving roads, Colter Bay and the south entrance of trails, facilities, and infrastructure. In Golden Age Passport $10 (one-time fee) Yellowstone, and the Pacific Creek Road. Allows lifetime entrance to all National Park System areas to American citizens 62 years old 1997, Congress authorized the I Replacement panels for interpretive or older; non-transferable. Recreational Fee Demonstration exhibits. Program, which allowed selected national Golden Access Passport - Free parks – including Grand Teton and Thank you for supporting the protection Allows lifetime entrance to all National Park System areas to American citizens who can Yellowstone national parks – and other of America’s national parks. provide proof of permanent disability; non-transferable.

Park Partners

GRAND TETON NATURAL GRAND TETON NATIONAL TETON SCIENCE SCHOOLS THE MURIE CENTER HISTORY ASSOCIATION PARK FOUNDATION P.O. Box 68 P.O. Box 399 P.O. Box 170 P.O. Box 249 Kelly, WY 83011 Moose, WY 83012 Moose, WY 83012 Moose, WY 83012 (307) 739-3403 (307) 732-0629 (307) 733-4765 (307) 739-2246 www.grandtetonpark.org www.gtnpf.org www.tetonscience.org www.muriecenter.org

Grand Teton Natural History Association was The Grand Teton National Park Foundation The Teton Science Schools, founded in The Murie Center is a nonprofit organization established in 1937 as the park’s primary was established in 1997 as the only private, 1967, provide and encourage experiential located on the historic Murie Ranch, home partner to increase public understanding, nonprofit organization dedicated exclusively education in natural sciences and ecology of famed conservationist Mardy Murie. The appreciation, and enjoyment of Grand Teton to raising money for projects that protect, while fostering an appreciation for Murie Center’s mission is to develop new preserve, and enhance Grand Teton National National Park and the Greater Yellowstone conservation ethics and practices. The constituencies for wilderness, emphasizing Park. The foundation receives no government area. Since that time, the Association has been secluded campus, operated in the importance of human connections support and relies solely on the generous with nature. The center is funded entirely aiding the interpretive, educational, and contributions of private individuals, cooperation with Grand Teton National research programs of Grand Teton National Park. foundations, and corporations. Philanthropy in Park, is located on a historic dude ranch through the generosity of individuals and the cause of national parks is not new. The John in the park. The Greater Yellowstone the commitment of foundations. Please The Association has grown to operate D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway reminds region serves as the school’s outdoor call if you are interested in visiting the interpretive and educational bookstores in us that we have the Rockefeller family to thank classroom and model for year-round center or attending a seminar. five outlets in Grand Teton National Park and for a generous 32,000-acre land donation that programs that offer academic, led to today’s Grand Teton National Park. the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial professional, and personal benefits to Parkway, and several outlets in Bridger-Teton A major fundraising effort is underway to students of all ages. National Forest, Caribou-Targhee National build the new Grand Teton Discovery and Forest, and National Elk Refuge information Visitor Center at Moose that will replace the Summer programs include two- to five- UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING NATIONAL PARK facilities. When you make a purchase at an woefully small visitor center in use since 1961. week residential field ecology and field Schematic design for the new facility has been SERVICE RESEARCH CENTER Association bookstore, profits are returned to natural history courses for high school completed and planning for construction is P.O. Box 3166 • Laramie, WY 82071-3166 the park in the form of donations to support and junior high students, and weeklong, underway. The Grand Teton Discovery and www.uwyo.edu park programs. Your purchase also supports Visitor Center will offer unparalleled nonresidential programs for third through the publication of this newspaper, books, and opportunities for information, orientation, eighth grades. A one-year, masters-level The AMK Research Station is a field operation the free educational handouts available at and education about Grand Teton National graduate program in environmental of the University of Wyoming based at the visitor centers and entrance stations. Park and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. education and natural science is also historic AMK Ranch in Grand Teton National available. This summer the Teton Science Park. The research station facilitates If you would like to become a member of Be sure to check out the on-line bookstore at Schools are offering 37 field seminars for the Grand Teton National Park Foundation, research in the diverse aquatic and www.grandtetonpark.org for all your trip- or join us in the fundraising effort for the adults and seven seminars for families. terrestrial environments of Grand Teton and planning needs and complete the coupon new visitor center, please fill out the coupon Workshops and seminars for teachers and Yellowstone national parks and the Bridger- below to become a member. below and return it with your donation. other professionals are also offered. Teton and Caribou-Targhee national forests.

We invite you to become an annual Yes! I would like to be a part of the member-at-large entitled to a 15% future of Grand Teton National Park. discount on purchases at all GTNHA Name______visitor center outlets, as well as on catalog and website orders. Many cooperating Address ______association stores nationwide offer reciprocal discounts. I would like to become a: I $25 Individual Annual Member with discount privileges City, State, Zip ______I $50 Associate Annual Member with discount privileges and commemorative Phone ______Email ______Grand Teton canvas bookbag Name______Please include your check made out to the Grand Teton National Park Foundation, Address ______or supply the following credit card information.

City ______Credit Card Type I Visa I Mastercard State ______Zip Code ______Phone ______Card Number ______Exp.: ______Date of Application______Paid By I Cash I Check I Credit Card ______Exp.: ______Cardholder’s Signature ______

Grand Teton National History Association • P.O. Box 170 • Moose, WY 83012 Grand Teton National Park Foundation • P.O. Box 249 • Moose, WY 83012 (307) 739-3403 • www.grandtetonpark.org (307) 732-0629 • www.gtnpf.org

TEEWINOT [Summer 2005] 9 Fire Management www.nps.gov/grte/ Managing Fire in Grand Teton National Park

Today, federal fire management policy buildup of dead wood and brush. A reflects both a commitment to public prescribed fire targets specific objectives safety and an understanding that fire – a like restoring early successional vegetation, dynamic and natural process – is important creating diverse habitats for plants and to the health of the ecosystem. Grand animals, while minimizing risks to Teton National Park's comprehensive fire developments and cultural resources. management program balances the preservation of natural and cultural Grand Teton National Park manages fire to resources with concerns for public health protect human lives, personal property, and safety by using the latest science, and irreplaceable natural and cultural technology, and a highly trained workforce resources. Fire suppression is a key to evaluate conditions and consider component of the fire management plan. management options. Through fire effects Specific park areas are identified where monitoring, vegetation mapping, and GIS fire suppression is critical to visitor and data collection, fire managers have a range resource protection. of modern tools to assist them in making decisions. Park fire crews mechanically reduce vegetation in developed areas. Fuels Some lightning-ignited fires, when they around buildings are reduced by thinning meet agency criteria, can be managed for trees and removing dead wood and brush resource benefits. These fires are carefully from the forest floor. This debris, called managed to ensure they stay within pre- slash, is piled and dried for at least a year, determined geographic areas and weather then burned during wet weather in spring and fire effects guidelines. This action, or late fall. Piles of brush and logs waiting referred to as wildland fire use, is critical to be burned should be left undisturbed. to fire-adapted plants that rely on natural These piles contain mostly green branches fire cycles to resprout from roots or open that do not make good firewood. cones for seed dispersal. For more information about fire The story of fire can be confusing. While the public is asked to prevent wildfires, fire managers sometimes conduct prescribed fires and manage lightning-caused fires for resource benefits. Fire specialists carefully plan Fire can be applied to the landscape to management in Grand Teton National the size and timing of these fires, allowing for a natural restoration of the ecosystem while providing for promote natural conditions and reduce Park, visit www.nps.gov/grte/fire/fire.htm. public and firefighter safety.

Take A Look Around Please do your part to prevent human-caused fires:

Fire has been an essential and natural part of forbs in the area and provides important the Grand Teton National Park ecosystem for habitat and forage for a number of species. I Build campfires only in designated areas, monitor them, and make sure they are thousands of years. The presence of fire properly extinguished. within the park is one of the significant North Jenny Lake factors contributing to the diversity of flora The lightning-caused Alder Fire was managed I Smoke safely. Grind out cigarettes, cigars, or pipe tobacco, then properly dispose of and fauna and overall health of for resource benefits for several weeks in them. Ashtrays should be used while smokers are in a vehicle and should never be the park ecosystems. As we September 1999 before strong winds emptied on the ground. understand fire's caused it to grow rapidly, and the fire was necessary role in the suppressed. Four years later, the area is I Do not use fireworks or other pyrotechnic devices. They are prohibited at all times ecosystem, we must also now rich in grasses, and many lodgepole within the park. accept occasional hazy pine seedlings are established in the open skies and patches of spaces. I Obey posted restrictions. Restrictions may change during dry summer conditions. blackened landscape. These short-term Blacktail Butte consequences bring In 1998, Grand Teton National Park with them healthy conducted a prescribed fire on the ten years later, bison, pronghorn, and elk are through stands of young lodgepole pine. changes that sustain south end of still drawn to this part of the valley floor. Near the area's natural Blacktail Butte in the fire's northeast end, a large area of aspen Waterfalls Canyon ecological balance. order to benefit trees has vigorously resprouted. This fire, along the west shore of Jackson vegetation and Lake, burned in 1974. Only a few burned Many opportunities wildlife Beaver Creek trees remain standing. Thirty years later, exist in the park to habitat. Stimulated by a 1985 fire in mixed conifers, the many shrubs and trees are well established. view changes over The area near Taggart Lake is now rich in young In 2000, two separate wildland fires naturally time after a fire. The change in lodgepole pines, aspen trees, and snowbrush burned into the 1974 fire area and fire park staff invites you to height and ceanothus. The Taggart Lake Trail winds behavior moderated, aiding control efforts. view the different stages density of of revegetation and the explore the diverse fire- sagebrush adapted vegetation can be noted unique to this from the landscape. highway. Though Elk, moose, charred trees and sage or shrubs grouse are may no frequently longer be visible in seen feeding areas that have burned, a noticeable in the area. Further south of the prescribed fire change in the height, density, or type site is the area that burned by a lightning- of vegetation can be a clue that fire ignited fire in 2003. Here, grasses and forbs are was present. returning to the area.

Teton Science School Antelope Flats A prescribed fire was completed west of the A lightning strike on the sagebrush flats near Fire can be an effective disturbance that rejuvenates vegetation and is critical in maintaining the natural Teton Science School in 2001. The fire has Mormon Row in 1994 has allowed grasses and sequence of plant communities known as succession. During a fire, competing trees are removed, allowing increased the amount of native grasses and wildflowers to again populate the area. Even new seedlings to thrive.

10 TEEWINOT [Summer 2005] Yellowstone www.nps.gov/grte/ Yellowstone National Park

All opening and closing dates and hours of operation are subject to change due to weather and other variables. Check at park entrance stations and visitor centers for updated information.

CONTACT INFORMATION Emergency ...... 911 Xanterra Parks & Resorts Visitor Information...... (307) 344-7381 TDD only...... (307) 344-5395 Visitor Information TDD only ..(307) 344-5395 Road Updates...... (307) 344-2117 Xanterra Parks & Resorts...... (307) 344-7311 Website...... www.nps.gov/yell

More information is in Yellowstone Today, the park newspaper, available at Yellowstone National Park entrance stations and visitor centers. Yellowstone Roads

SPRING 2005 OPENING SCHEDULE CONSTRUCTION Spring weather is unpredictable; roads may I Dunraven Pass and Chittenden Road be closed temporarily by snow or other south to Canyon are closed for construction weather conditions. Snow tires or chains until mid- to late August. may be required. Weather and snow I Eleanor Lake to the East Entrance will be conditions permitting, tentative road closed 8 p.m.-8 a.m. daily. opening dates for automobiles are: AUTUMN 2005 CLOSING SCHEDULE For current road April 22 Mammoth to Old Faithful; The only park road that remains open to information call Madison Junction to West Entrance wheeled vehicles all winter is the road from (307) 344-2117 April 22 Norris Junction to Canyon Gardiner, MT at the North Park Entrance to May 6 Canyon to Lake; Silver Gate and Cooke City near the Northeast Lake to East Entrance Park Entrance. All other park roads close at May 13 Lake to South Entrance; 8:00 a.m. on November 7. All opening and Visitor Services West Thumb to Old Faithful; closing dates and hours of operation listed are All dates are subject to change at any time. Tower Junction to Tower Fall subject to change due to weather and other May 27 Beartooth Highway; variables. Check at park entrance stations ACCOMODATIONS Albright Visitor Center, Tower Fall to Chittenden Road and visitor centers for updated information. Old Faithful Inn Mammoth Hot Springs (undergoing renovation) ...... July 1–Sept 11 Open year-round, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. in summer. Old Faithful Snow Lodge...... May 6 – Oct 23 (307) 344-2263 Old Faithful Lodge...... May 6 – Oct 2 Canyon Visitor Center Grant Village...... May 27 – Oct 2 Opens May 22, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. (307) 242-2550 Lake Yellowstone Hotel ...... May 20 – Oct 10 Fishing Bridge Visitor Center Lake Lodge...... June 10 – Sept 25 Opens May 28, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. (307) 242-2450 Canyon Lodge...... June 3 – Sept 18 Grant Village Visitor Center Roosevelt Lodge ...... June 10 – Sept 5 Opens May 28, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. (307) 242-2650 Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel.....May 14 – Oct 11 Madison Information Station Opens June 4, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (307) 344-2821 RESTAURANTS, GENERAL STORES AND Museum of the National Park Ranger, Norris SERVICE STATIONS Opens May 28, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The following locations have restaurants or Norris Geyser Basin Museum cafeterias, general stores and service stations: Opens May 28, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (307) 344-2812 Old Faithful, Canyon, Grant Village, Lake, Old Faithful Visitor Center Tower-Roosevelt, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Opens April 22, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. in summer. Fishing Bridge. (307) 545-2750 West Thumb Information Station PUBLIC SHOWERS Opens May 28, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (307) 242-2652 Showers are available to the public (fee West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center charged) at Old Faithful Lodge, Grant Village West Yellowstone Campground, Fishing Bridge RV Park, Canyon Chamber of Commerce Staff Campground and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel Available year-round, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Yellowstone Campgrounds during the summer season. NPS Rangers First-come, first-served Available daily beginning April 22, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; VISITOR CENTERS AND MUSEUMS May 29 and thereafter, 8 a.m–8 p.m. NPS Campground Dates Sites Fee Information, publications, exhibits, movies/videos, (406) 646-4403. and ranger programs are available. For details visit Indian Creek June 10 - Sept. 19 75 $12 www.nps.gov/yell or www.travelyellowstone.com. Lewis Lake June 17 - Nov. 6 85 $12 Mammoth Year-round 85 $14 Camping in Yellowstone Norris May 20 - Sept. 26 116 $14 FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED CAMPSITES Camping or overnight vehicle parking in Pebble Creek June 3 - Sept. 26 36 $12 There are eleven campgrounds and one RV park pullouts, parking areas, picnic areas or any in Yellowstone National Park. The National Park place other than a designated campground is Slough Creek May 27 - Oct. 31 29 $12 Service operates seven campgrounds: Mammoth, prohibited; there are no overflow Tower Fall, Indian Creek, Pebble Creek, Lewis camping facilities. All camping is limited to Tower Fall May 20 - Sept. 26 32 $12 Lake, Norris, and Slough Creek Campgrounds. 14 days between June 15 and September 15 Sites at these seven campgrounds are available and to 30 days during the rest of the year, Xanterra Parks & Resorts Campgrounds on a first-come, first-served basis. except at Fishing Bridge RV Park (no limit). Call (307) 344-7311 for reservations Check out time for all campgrounds is RESERVABLE CAMPSITES 10 a.m. Campground Dates Sites Fee* Reservations for campgrounds at Canyon, Grant Village, Bridge Bay and Madison campgrounds GROUP CAMPING Bridge Bay May 27 - Sept. 18 432 $17 and Fishing Bridge RV Park may be made by Group camping areas are available for large Canyon June 10 - Sept. 11 272 $17 contacting (307) 344-7311. Fishing Bridge RV organized groups with a designated leader Park is the only campground with water, such as youth groups, etc. Fees range from Fishing Bridge RV May 20 - Oct. 2 346 $33 sewer, and electrical hookups, and is for hard- $48-$78 per night depending on the size of the sided vehicles only, no tents or tent trailers. group. Advance reservations are required and Grant June 21 - Oct. 2 425 $17 Please make your reservations early and/or can be made year-round by writing to Madison May 6 - Oct. 30 277 $17 plan on securing your campsite as early in the Xanterra Parks & Resorts, P.O. Box 165, *plus tax day as possible. Campgrounds may fill early in Yellowstone Park, Wyoming 82190 or by the day, especially during July and August. calling (307) 344-7311.

TEEWINOT [Summer 2005] 11 Park Map www.nps.gov/grte/

Colter Bay

To Yellowstone NP 18 mi

Store & Gas Station Campground Service Station

Trailer Village JACKSON Cabin LAKE Tent Activities Office Village Picnic Area Stores To Amphitheater Cabins Jackson 40 mi VISITOR Laundry & Corral CENTER Showers Restaurants Marina Boat launch

Moose

South Jenny Lake

JENNY LAKE Guide Service Boat Dock

Visitor Center Ranger Station

Campground T et on P ar k Ro ad

Road Information

Road Work Delays Move Over and Slow Down Under the law, motorists on Wyoming interstates Recycling Road improvements will take place in Grand A new state law requires motorists in must move over to the travel lane farthest Recycling stations are located throughout Teton and Yellowstone national parks Wyoming to move over and slow down away from a stopped emergency vehicle before the park. Check at park visitor centers for throughout the 2005 season. For the most when passing stopped emergency vehicles they pass. On two-lane highways, passing more information. up-to-date information about road conditions with flashing lights. The law aims to reduce motorists must slow to 20 mph below the in Grand Teton National Park call (307) 739- the danger of these vehicles getting hit by speed limit. These actions are required unless 3614 or visit www.nps.gov/grte. For passing vehicles. In the last five years, a law enforcement officer otherwise directs information about Yellowstone roads call stopped Wyoming Highway Patrol cars motorists. Violations can result in fines of up (307) 344-2117 or visit www.nps.gov/yell. were struck on 27 different occasions. to $200, jail terms of up to 20 days, or both.

12 TEEWINOT [Summer 2005]