LOCAL
I would imagine most of you have heard about the death of the infamous matriarch grizzly of the Tetons, 399. She inspired us, shared her beauty, and demonstrated her intelligence with us for 28 years. May her legacy be one of awareness and protection for all species. May she rest in peace.
Enjoy this tribute to Grizzly 399 written by local poet and sidereal astrologer, Lyn Dalebout:
The Land Without 399: A Tribute to our Grizzly Matriarch
Temperatures were above average with minimal moisture in October creating smoky days from the Pack Trail fire on Togwotee Pass. The bit of moisture we did receive in October was wet and cold, reducing the strength of the fire. With the recent moisture and snowfall, the fire is now 95% contained at nearly 90,000 acres.
The clear days of October created perfect weather for outdoor play. Chilly mornings and sunny afternoons made for great biking, hiking, fishing and boating. Fortunately, the start of November has brought wintry weather to the region. Wildlife continue to be active and on the move to lower elevations.
As we live with and enjoy nature, I want to remind us to tread lightly. I recently hiked a popular trail near the town of Jackson known as Josie’s Ridge. All the new spur trails are disappointing. We should all stay on the main trail to reduce impact and erosion. The non-profit organization, Tread Lightly, has 7 Principles of Leave No Trace that we can follow to be better stewards of the Earth. Remebering to stay on designated routes and avoid creating new routes is imperative to preserve our trails, access, and limit impact.
Learn more: 7 Principles of Leave No Trace
Enjoy this quieter month in Jackson Hole as the season changes and snow begins to blanket the mountains. I am off to Croatia to explore their culture and ecosystems.
Cathy Shill
Founder, The Hole Hiking Experience
REGIONAL
World On Pace For Much More Warming
It has been hotter and drier throughout the state of Wyoming and the Rocky Mountain region. According to the latest Paris Agreement, we are on course for “nastier heat waves, wildfires, storms, and droughts.” We are at a tipping point. The Paris Agreement is a legal and binding international treaty between 195 participants. The list includes the U.S. and China. It’s time that we paid attention to create lasting change. Each small effort helps. Let’s have a voice for change and help the Earth thrive.
Learn more:
- World On Pace For Much More Warming Without Immediate Action
- Global Emissions Set to Fall 2.6% by 2030 – 40% Short of Paris Agreement Target
SPIRIT
To live and to see
In huts and on journeys
The great day that dawns
And the light that fills the world.
– An Intuit Shaman
Learn more in 2024
Join a naturalist guide to discover the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Summer tours have concluded. Head to our website to book snowshoeing and winter wildlife discovery tours now.
NATURE AWAITS YOU
Backcountry Tips
- Make sure to minimize impact when trails are muddy. Paved community pathways are great options as the season transitions.
- Avalanche courses will be offered at the start of the winter season. It’s always good to refresh our skills and learn more about snow and backcountry travel safety.
Field Facts
- Change in weather will spur wildlife movement to winter territories. Be alert on roadways, especially at night.
- Wildlife is at risk anywhere they can get on a road. Wildlife fences with under or overpasses for safe movement is imperative for less collisions.
Tour Suggestion
Base recreation decisions on minimizing impact on muddy trails. As snow accumulates in the mountains, be wary of hidden obstacles beneath shallow layers of snow. Our community pathways are a great choice for exercise during this transitional time. Many Park roads close November 1 to allow us to explore the roadways without traffic. The Moose-Wilson Road and the inner Park road near Taggert Lake are good options.
Note: Our summer season has ended and winter touring begins November 25. Enjoy the off season and let it snow!
