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It’s Time to Manifest Snow!
While Jackson Hole remains as gorgeous as ever, dry conditions persist into early February, though upcoming weather patterns look more promising. A stubborn high-pressure system over the West will need to break down before meaningful snowfall can arrive. January did bring cooler-than-average temperatures, but that trend is already starting to shift. Since our last storm on January 10, snowfall has been limited to only a few light events.
Mid-February, however, is shaping up to be a bit more promising. Across the Intermountain West—including Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming—drought conditions continue to impact winter recreation and raise concerns about water supply. Wyoming, at least for now, is faring better than many of its neighboring states.
Learn more:
Drought Status Update for the Intermountain West
Elk Management
The start of 2026 brought changes to elk management in Grand Teton National Park. The Trump administration is pushing to increase hunting within the park, despite current elk numbers falling below the population objective of 11,000 animals. With the herd already under that target, expanding hunting does not align with sound science. Management decisions should be guided by data and made with the long-term balance of nature in mind.
Learn more:
Trump administration wants to boost hunting in Grand Teton National Park
Here’s to six more weeks of winter! Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow—and honestly, we need it. As the month begins, enjoy the longer days and that extra bit of evening light.
Cathy Shill
Founder, The Hole Hiking Experience
REGIONAL
Predators, Prey, and the Balance of Nature
Healthy predator–prey relationships are essential for equilibrium in the natural world. Elk co-evolved with wolves. Deer co-evolved with mountain lions. Pronghorn even evolved alongside an extinct species of cheetah. These long relationships shaped the balance we see—or hope to preserve—today.
Opinions differ greatly when it comes to managing predators, and wolves are almost always caught in the crossfire. The hatred runs deep. The animal cruelty case involving Cody Roberts and the torture of a gray wolf in Daniel, Wyoming appears to be headed to trial, a decision that could influence future wolf management and predator status. Torture and animal cruelty have no place in the natural world, and should never be inflicted by a dominant human.
Adding to these concerns, recent poaching near Yellowstone National Park killed a prominent member of one of the park’s most well-known wolf packs. The loss of a strong female can destabilize the entire family unit. She had big potential to become a dominant breeding female.
Wolves matter first and foremost for maintaining balance in the ecosystem. As a keystone species, their presence shapes healthier landscapes and wildlife populations. They also play a vital role in Wyoming’s economy, drawing visitors from around the world and bringing millions of tourism dollars into local communities through wildlife viewing. These animals matter—ecologically, culturally, and economically. Let’s protect them.
Learn more:
- Judge suggests wolf captor Cody Roberts’ felony case will proceed to trial
- Yellowstone Wolf Poaching Raises Concerns Across Montana
SPIRIT
“Love the animals, love the plants, love everything. If you love everything, you will perceive the divine mystery in things.”
—Fyodor Dostoevsky
Nature Awaits You!
Backcountry Tips
- Trails are icy, so come prepared with trekking poles and consider using Yaktraks or other traction devices for your shoes.
- As temperatures fluctuate, ski conditions can change rapidly. Expect challenging terrain and a thinner snowpack, and plan accordingly.
Field Facts
- Bird life is active with these mild temperatures; robins are still in town. During a walk along Flat Creek, I saw a belted kingfisher, flickers, magpies, chickadees, and mallards.
- Mallard numbers increase in winter as free-flowing water attracts migrants from the north.
We Take Pride in our Guides
Find adventure or 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 journey.
Tour Suggestions
Daily trail reports from JH Nordic highlight current conditions and offer fun suggestions as warming temperatures bring changing surfaces. Teton Canyon in Alta is skiing well, and shaded Cache Creek continues to hold good snow. In Grand Teton National Park, Two Ocean and Emma Matilda are solid options, both located on the north end of the valley. Walking in the valley is another great choice—ski poles can help navigate variable conditions. We’re still hoping for more snow to support the backcountry and alpine skiing and riding. Fingers crossed.
