October had the typical mix of fall mountain weather with sun, wind, rain and snow. The month ended with subzero temperatures. Both October 2019 and 2020 broke records for frigid temperatures. This year, temperatures plummeted to minus nine degrees Fahrenheit.
Weather changes spur wildlife migration. Elk make their way to the southern parts of Jackson Hole. River bottoms offer great migration corridors with food and shelter. Infamous Grizzly 399 was seen near Teton Village with her four cubs in tow. She seems to be traveling south in search of warmer temps, berries, other food sources, and perhaps a new territory. Read more »
Local
Visitation numbers in Grand Teton National Park broke records in September and October. GTNP reported an increase of 54% for day hikers and 79% for backcountry camping this September over last. October had the town of Jackson bustling with visitors and we anticipate that visitation reports will confirm an increase. People continue to flock to the Tetons in search of open spaces and the solace of nature. Read more »
Regional
Summer 2020 was hot and dry throughout the state of Wyoming. Hot temperatures have affected the entire state. The National Weather Services is predicting this summer to be Cheyenne’s hottest in 147 years of recorded weather history. Pasture conditions are some of the worst in the country with dry creek beds and the need for stored water. The dry air seems to be a main contributor to current drought conditions as well as the wildfires raging in Colorado. Read more »
Spiritual
“I want everyone to be well. I don’t care what color you are because I don’t see your color… But I feel your soul. I do feel your spirit. I see the color of your spirit and soul, and I’m seeing too many spirits and souls that are not about the love that we are supposed to have and feel for one another.”
— Stevie Wonder
“When the rain falls, it don’t fall on one man’s house”
— Bob Marley, So Much Things to Say
What’s in the Woods (Field Notes)
10/3 (Snake River) beautiful fall colors of cottonwoods and maples, otter family including an adult with three kits, bald eagle
10/5 (Munger Mountain) coyote, ripe mountain snowberry, fireweed seeds in the air, amazing fall colors, very busy trailhead
10/10 fresh snow in the mountains
10/13 (Moose-Wilson Road) black bear, great grey owl, elk
10/14 (Jackson, backyard birding) red-breasted nuthatch, robin eating the choke cherries, chickadees, flock of pine siskins, male red squirrel, windy and cold
10/15 (Fall Creek) herd of mule deer, some fall colors remain, ravens, berries: rose hips, service berry, mountain snowberry
10/17 (Grand Teton Park) herd of bison, female elk harem with bull, bull moose, black bear, mule deer, herds of pronghorn
10/23 early frost, eastern blue jays feeding on chokecherries on my back deck
10/25 frigid temperatures in Jackson; minus 9 degrees in town
10/28 (Teton Village) Grizzly 399 brings her four cubs along the Teton Village Road
Tour Suggestion
November is a month of transition as we await our white landscape and the transition to winter sports. Choose activity outings based on weather and trail conditions. Many hills around town will close December 1 for wildlife protection so it’s a great time to get your last hike on Josie’s Ridge or explore the trails in the Gros Ventre Mountains. Hiking in the Teton front country is always a great option and fewer people in November. The Valley Trail in Grand Teton Park offers numerous options. Both Taggert and Bradley Lake are fun to explore. Park roads will close in early November changing some access. Read more »
Backcountry Tips
Wildlife is on the move, including bears, so be mindful while driving on the roads and using the trails. Remember to carry bear spray!
