LOCAL
June is a time for brilliant hues of green in Jackson Hole. As the trees leaf out and plants begin to grow, it’s fun to watch the mosaic of greens climb up from the valley floor and into the mountains to meet the snow line. New leaves are their brightest shade of green before the protective cuticle, or outer layer, forms. Spring flowers are filling the meadows at lower elevations while snow still dominates the landscape at higher elevations. It’s birthing season: young ravens can be heard calling from their nests, bluebirds are laying eggs, Chickadees are mating, wobbly young bison and moose are suckling, elk and deer will be calving soon, and it’s mating season for bears. Nature is abuzz with renewal and rebirth.
As we begin summer 2024, we have some new bear challenges on the horizon. Grizzlies have been seen closer to homes and populated areas this spring, so we all need to adjust our behavior. Securing garbage cans, bringing in bird feeders, and carrying bear spray are ways we can protect ourselves and the bears. Staying alert and making noise is helpful to inform wildlife of your location, as well.
The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is an amazing place to live and to visit. Let’s all do our part to protect it by minimizing our impact on the land, respecting wildlife by giving them space, practicing leave-no-trace ethics in the backcountry, fully dousing campfires, being respectful of others, and leaving what you find in nature.
Enjoy,
REGIONAL
We need your help to eradicate noxious weeds
Noxious weeds are a concern on private and public lands. They are nonnative weeds that are aggressive invaders and quickly replace native vegetation. They are invasive, competitive and difficult to control. Being a hiker, I have noticed the increase of noxious weeds on a few of my favorite trails. Canada thistle, musk thistle, houndstongue, knapweed and toadflax are just a few of the noxious weeds in Teton County. Teton County Weed and Pest is increasing its field programs to create more plant ambassadors and neighborhood advocates to help fight noxious weeds. Pay attention to local news for opportunities to learn more and get involved. Check out their website for a list of invasive plants. Reach out to us directly to learn more about an upcoming community weed pull on Shadow Mountain.
Learn more:
SPIRIT
“No man is an island, entire of himself; every man is a piece of the continent”
– John Donne
Field Facts
- It’s birthing season so give wildlife extra space — more than 25 yards for most animals and 100 yards for bears and wolves.
- June 20, the summer solstice, is when the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is at a collective peak of new life in both the plant and animal worlds.
- Ravens, eagles and owls have young birds in the nest. If you are near a nest, you can hear the chicks calling for food.
Backcountry Tips
- Due to mountain snow, animals remain at lower elevations. Females want to protect their young and can be more dangerous than ever. Make noise and carry bear spray.
- Bears have been seen on popular trails recently. Please be bear aware.
- Mountain weather changes quickly. Make sure to check the weather and be prepared with layered clothing and rain gear.
- Once you plan your activity, tell someone where you are going and stick to the plan.
Trail Suggestion
Snow and muddy trails will limit options in the higher elevations. Hiking at the base of the Tetons around Jenny Lake or the Taggart/Bradley Lake area is a great early season option. The Valley Trail travels along the base of the Tetons as well. I like the Death Canyon to Granite Canyon stretch. You can run a car shuttle with your hiking partner. For another option, consider heading south to Byron Flats/Willow Creek to find dry trails to enjoy. Happy hiking!
Learn more in 2024!
Join a naturalist on the trail to explore and discover the wonders of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
holehike.com
