Local
I notice the change of the season from the inside outward. I begin to sense fall as sounds and smells change. The look of the natural world becomes softer as the light begins to wane. You can feel the change in the air. It’s a different coolness. Fall colors begin to dot the meadows and berries line the trails. September is an idyllic time to explore with crisp mornings, soft light and a quieter feel in Jackson Hole.
~ Cathy Shill
The Hole Hiking Experience Founder and Biologist
Fall Arts Festival
September is a month to celebrate art in the Tetons and enjoy the many events of the Fall Arts Festival. Each September, the best Western, wildlife, and landscape artists converge in Jackson, WY where local galleries and venues host over 50 art events in 12 days.
Learn more: The Fall Arts Festival
Monsoon Effects
Summer is monsoon season, delivering a flow of energy, wind and moisture into the valley from the southwest. We have received more than twice the normal precipitation in the town of Jackson. The welcomed increase in moisture this summer has helped drought conditions in the southwest. Monsoon season lasts through the month of September.
Learn more: Jackson gets hit by 2.5 times normal rain for first part of August
Regional
Water fights have begun in the West as many reservoirs reach historic lows. Our demand exceeds the supply and we will have to adjust to adapt to a limited supply of fresh water. Ranchers in the state of Idaho are trying to control the state’s water but the federal government has a different water strategy.
Learn more: US seeks to invalidate Idaho water rights forfeiture laws
Spirit
The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.
— Helen Keller
Field Facts
- Berries are ripe and juicy. This wet summer has produced an abundance of fruit. Lots of tasty thimbleberries, raspberries, grouse whortleberries and service berries to discover. Join us on a hiking tour to learn about the plant world and enjoy some sweet sensations.
- September is mating season. Listen for the bugle of the bull elk at dawn and dusk. It’s the time of year when large male elk gather a group of females and bugle to call them closer and tell other males to stay away.
Backcountry tips
- It can snow any month of the year in Jackson Hole but there is a higher probability in the fall. Be prepared for sudden weather temperatures and cold mountain temperatures.
- Make sure to give wildlife lots of space. Mating season can make male animals feisty and dangerous.
Tour Suggestion
It’s a great time of the year to get out and play among the vibrant hues for autumn. Fall color change has begun and by the end of the month, the Aspen leaves will be golden. The Munger Mountain area, south of Wilson, has great fall colors and lots of trail options. Oxbow Bend in Grand Teton National Park offers wonderful photo opportunities of golden Aspen and Cottonwood leaves with the towering Tetons in the distance.
