LOCAL
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November is a quiet month in Jackson Hole — the “shoulder season” between the vibrant days of summer and the deep snows of winter. The landscape is in transition, and the trails often turn muddy and slick. During this in-between time, locals trade mountain trails for the pathway system, Old Pass Road, and the region’s gravel roads, waiting for enough snow to return to our beloved winter sports. Many residents leave the valley altogether, hoping to come back to white peaks and a fresh season of skiing and snowshoeing.
Many park roads in Yellowstone and Grand Teton close to vehicles in November, transforming into peaceful routes perfect for walking, running, or biking until the snow piles up. Ice skating season will arrive soon, too, for those adventurous enough to explore nearby alpine lakes — but always use extreme caution and ensure the ice is fully frozen. In Grand Teton National Park, Taggart, Phelps, and Jackson Lakes all offer stunning views, while Slide Lake in the Gros Ventre Mountains is another local favorite. Once winter takes hold, ice rinks near town will open as well.
As fall fades into winter, wildlife are on the move. Elk begin their journey toward feeding grounds, bears seek out denning sites, and many species migrate into lower elevations — often bringing more animals into town and around our homes. Please secure garbage and remove bird feeders to keep wildlife safe. The southern end of the valley serves as prime winter habitat.
Hunting season continues through much of November, so it’s important to stay visible by wearing orange and carrying bear spray when you’re out and about.
Despite the quiet, there’s still plenty to enjoy this month: two-for-one dinners, live music, scenic wildlife drives, and a good book by the fire on those wet, blustery days.
Happy trails,
Cathy Shill
Founder, The Hole Hiking Experience
REGIONAL
Wyoming State Capitol building in Cheyenne
Government Shutdown and SNAP
Article published in WyoFile
Once in a while, I feel compelled to share some national news that hits me hard. SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is a federally funded program that helps low-income families and individuals avoid food insecurity. Due to the government shutdown, SNAP funding is scheduled to end and is currently being decided in the courts. Losing this benefit could be devastating for millions of Americans. In Wyoming, Governor Gordon makes sure his constituents are OK by declaring a “public welfare emergency” to allocate state money to fund food assistance.
Spooky Bats at Halloween?
You’re unlikely to spot any bats during the spooky season — by Halloween, most of Wyoming’s diverse bat species are already hibernating. Jackson Hole alone is home to 13 different kinds of bats: some migrate to warmer climates, while others settle in for winter. Both the Little Brown Bat and the Big Brown Bat hibernate through the cold months, while other species have their own strategies for surviving the harsh Greater Yellowstone winter.
SPIRIT
“Troubles are often the tools by which God fashions us for better things.”
—H. W. Beecher
Nature Awaits You!
Backcountry Tips
- Tread lightly. Traveling on muddy trails leads to widening and long-term damage. If your boots or tires are leaving marks, it’s not the right trail for that day.
- Stay safe and visible. November is hunting season — wear orange and always carry bear spray when recreating outdoors.
- Be wildlife-wise. Bears remain active and are drawn to any type of food. Secure garbage, take down bird feeders, and remember that gut piles left by hunters attract scavengers.
- Ease into winter. Early-season snow can be thin and unpredictable. Be patient with snow sports to help prevent injuries and protect terrain.
We Take Pride in Our Guides
Passionate and knowledgeable, our expert guides lead engaging nature tours that are safe, fun, and unforgettable—turning every outing into an inspiring adventure.
Caring for the environment is a big part of who we are. Whether it’s teaching about land stewardship or pitching in with programs like Adopt-a-Highway, our HHE team is always finding ways to give back and help protect the wild places we all love to explore.
Field Facts
- Bears are preparing for winter. They create dens lined with grasses, plants, and pine boughs to form a cozy winter bed. While den sites vary, bears often choose higher-elevation, north-facing slopes that are safe and tucked away.
- Rough-legged hawks are returning to Jackson Hole. These striking raptors breed in the Arctic and migrate south each year to spend the winter in our valley.
Tour Suggestions
Non-slippery surfaces can be hard to find during this transition to winter, so stick to the pathways! A local favorite near Wilson is the Old Pass Road, while Snow King Mountain and the road up Cache Creek in town offer good, packed surfaces for walking or running. In Grand Teton National Park, both the Moose-Wilson Road and the inner park road are now closed to vehicles, creating fun options for biking and exploring until the snow piles up.
Tread lightly, embrace the season of change — and let it snow!
