LOCAL
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It’s time for the snow dance. We’ve had an unseasonably warm November, and as December begins, snow is still thin. All three local ski resorts—Grand Targhee Resort, Snow King Mountain, and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort—have delayed their openings. Hard for the skiers, but even harder for nature. As temperatures finally drop, we’ll need about 6–8 inches of snow to insulate the ground so plants, insects, and non-hibernating animals don’t freeze. Days continue to shorten as the solstice on December 21, 2025 approaches. At the darkest time of year, we’ll have only about 10 hours of daylight.
Beginning December 1, wildlife closures take effect on many hills surrounding our valley. By minimizing disturbance, these closures protect wildlife and their well-being. Winter is an incredibly stressful season, so conserving energy is crucial. All beings face the ecological challenges of winter—summarized by the acronym SCREW: snow, cold, radiation, energy, and wind. Deep snow, frigid temperatures, short days, wasted energy, and wind chill can all take a toll. Let’s all do our part to protect the animals.
There are plenty of events to enjoy this month as the holidays approach. Visit our local Chamber of Commerce to view suggestions »
And mark your calendar for this winter’s annual Free Ski, Fat Bike, Snowshoe Day on January 11, 2026! Learn more »
Happy Holidays,
Cathy Shill
Founder, The Hole Hiking Experience
REGIONAL
Originating high in Wyoming’s Wind River Mountains, the Green River flows south as the largest tributary of the Colorado River.
Colorado River Crisis
Wyoming is pushing back against California and its demand for water from the Colorado River. Congresswoman Harriet Hageman states that water management in California has not changed since the 1960s. Today, millions of people depend on water from the Colorado River. Part of the river’s headwaters originate in Wyoming as the Green River and the Little Snake River. Mid-February is the deadline for western states to reach a new agreement, or the Department of the Interior may step in to create one moving forward. The decision could end up in court. Wyoming is also considering a voluntary program to incentivize farmers and ranchers to reduce irrigation. Hard decisions ahead.
Learn more:
SPIRIT
“If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, ‘thank-you’ that would suffice.”
—-Meister Eckhard
Nature Awaits You!
Backcountry Tips
- Respect wildlife closures from December 1 through May 1, 2026. Give wildlife a break—and don’t poach the powder.
https://www.tetonconservation.org/winter-wildlife-closures - Early-season conditions are in full effect, so be extra careful out there. As winter begins, it’s a great idea to carry a SOL Bivvy in your pack. It’s lightweight and can be crucial if an injury occurs.
https://www.surviveoutdoorslonger.com/collections/emergency-survival-bivvies
Field Facts
- Species that winter in Jackson Hole rely on the insulating properties of snow. Many, like weasels and grouse, burrow and sleep beneath it. They dig to a depth that maintains a relatively constant temperature, so they don’t have to shiver to stay warm.
- The Snowshoe Hare is adapted to life on top of the snow. Lightweight, with large hind feet, it moves easily across the surface. Weighing just 3–5 pounds, its hind feet can be over 5 inches long. This ratio spreads the hare’s weight, minimizing pressure on the snow and helping it stay mobile.
We Take Pride in Our Guides
Find serenity in nature while snowshoeing or wildlife viewing with one of our top-rated naturalist guides.
Passionate and knowledgeable, our guides lead engaging nature tours that are safe, fun, and unforgettable—turning every outing into an inspiring adventure.
Tour Suggestions
As we choose places to recreate in December, it’s important to consider snow depth to reduce the risk of injury. We’re in a seasonal transition, so it’s best to be cautious. Valley trails are still accessible—hiking out to Taggart and Bradley Lakes in Grand Teton National Park is beautiful, and there are fewer visitors this time of year.
Nearby, Cache Creek and Game Creek, near the town of Jackson, both have roadways that help you avoid mud and ice. As snow accumulates, a cross-country ski up Teton Canyon in Alta, Wyoming, is spectacular. Just be sure to avoid any closed terrain to minimize disturbances to wildlife—winter closures have begun.
