LOCAL
Pictured: Team member Kate Winters captured this fog bow, or white rainbow, framing the Tetons. Similar to a rainbow, it appears as a bow in fog rather than rain.
October was quite a lovely month — warm, sunny days, chilly evenings and some snow showers to round out the ideal fall weather. Town is quiet and The Hole Hiking Experience will be closed until November 20 as we all transition to the winter season. Book winter tours online and we’ll be sure to respond to emails and calls within 24 hours.
Enjoy the chilly mornings and changing season,
Cathy Shill
Founder, The Hole Hiking Experience
State takes steps to offload the Kelly Parcel in Grand Teton Park
Most of the land in Jackson Hole, 97% to be specific, is protected as public land with either a national park or national forest designation. The State of Wyoming, however, still owns one parcel in Grand Teton National Park known as the Kelly Parcel. It’s a haven for wildlife with breathtaking views. The park would like to acquire this land but has not been able to reach an agreement with the state. The state may auction the parcel for $62M. This will be reviewed during the December meeting of the State Board of Land Commissioners.
Learn more: A chunk of Grand Teton National Park could go up for auction
REGIONAL
Chronic Wasting Disease detected in Bondurant area
Hunting season for most animals in Wyoming occurs during the fall months. As Wyoming Game and Fish monitors the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), they ask hunters to provide samples of the meat for testing. Hunting is the primary tool for monitoring and managing the spread of CWD, which is a fatal neurological disease found in cervids, or members of the deer family. The disease has been found in the area for years and again found close to Jackson Hole.
Learn more: Chronic wasting disease again detected near Jackson
SPIRIT
Love the world as your own self, then you can truly care for all beings.
— Lao Tsu
Field Facts
- Birds are moving to winter territories. Many migrate out of the valley but some remain and move to a lower elevation. I spotted a Stellar Jay and Ruffed Grouse in town.
- Bears establish denning sites and drag in vegetation and such to create beds. They often den in large talus, or rock slopes, or beneath big conifers. They will remain active until the deeper snow pushes them to their winter slumber.
Backcountry Tips
- Make sure to be extra alert while driving. Animals will be moving to winter territories, and it is hard to see the animals at night. We have numerous elk feed grounds in Jackson and the herds will move towards these areas.
- Make sure to limit your impact on trails during this muddy time of the year.
Trail Suggestions
Conditions change daily this time of year. Best to hike when the trails are frozen and avoid muddy trails if possible. Bike paths are always a great option this time of year. The recent snowstorm had some touring on Teton Pass. If you feel the urge to ski, remember the early season conditions and be extremely cautious to ruin the rest of your season with an injury. I like valley hikes at this time of the year. The Valley Trail at the base of the Tetons is a fun adventure at the season changes. The Cache Creek road is a good option when a lot of the trails are muddy. It’s also a really nice time to read a book.
Join a naturalist this winter!
We are closed for fall break but you can book winter tours online now. We’ll see you after the snow flies for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and wildlife viewing tours in the majestic Grand Tetons.
