Grand Teton Guide

Y O U R G U I D E T O T H E PA R K • FALL 2018 Changes of Autumn The arrival of autumn breathes new life into Grand Teton National Park. As the heat of summer slowly gives way to the cooler months of fall, changes may be seen across the park. The bright green leaves of the aspens become vibrant yellow; the sun, once bright until late in the evening, sinks below the horizon earlier each day; cool breezes and frequent rain showers wash away the haze of summer. For many animals, fall is the time to migrate to their winter grounds. Bison, pronghorn, and elk begin moving south. Grand Teton is a corridor for many of these animals, and they follow the same path their ancestors took thousands of years before. Pronghorn gather in large groups to head for their winter grounds near Pinedale, WY. For nearly 7,000 years, members of the Teton herd have headed to the Pinedale area where they join one of the largest gatherings of pronghorn on earth. The 150-mile migration is the second longest land migration in the Western Hemisphere. see CHANGES OF AUTUMN on page 6 Bears in Fall Hawthorne, chokecherry, and other berries attract grizzly and black bears to feast on this vital food source. Park rangers will close roads, trails, and other areas if necessary for visitor safety due to bear activity and bear safety. BEAR AWARE As you travel through the park, please be “Bear Aware.” • • BEAR Stay at least 100 yards from BEAR bears and wolves. AWARE AWARE Jenny Lake Renewal The multi-million dollar renewal project at Jenny Lake is making headway—2018 marks the fifth and final major construction season. Work continues around the visitor center, general store, and restrooms. Backcountry work continues at Inspiration Point and Cascade Creek. WHAT TO EXPECT Trails—current info at visitor centers. Trails to Hidden Falls and a scenic viewpoint called Lower Inspiration Point are open. Cascade Canyon access is via north horse trail. Visitor Center—temporary facility with visitor information and bookstore sales. Open until Sept 23. General Store—sells camping and hiking supplies, groceries, gifts, and snacks. Open until Sept 23. Jenny Lake Campground—tents only. Open until Sept 30. multi-use pathway—unaffected by construction. Due to congestion, please begin from another location. Both black and grizzly bears can be dangerous. CARRY BEAR SPRAY • CARRY 25 yards (23 m) FOOD STORAGE REQUIRED Remain in your vehicle if bears are present. FOOD STORAGE • BEAR Hike in groups, make noise, and SPRAY REQUIRED 100 yards (91 m) carry bear spray. • Keep a clean camp and always store any product with an odor properly. 25 yards (23 m) 100 yards (91 m) Ranger Programs Join a ranger for a walk or a talk. See page 7-10 Make Your Splash! Looking for wildlife? 50th Anniversary of Wild & Scenic Rivers. Discover bears, pronghorn, elk, moose, bison, and more. See page 13 See page 4 Want to sleep under the stars? Campground and RV park information. See page 3 Grand Teton Guide Published By Grand Teton Association, a non-profit organization, dedicated to supporting the education, interpretive, and research initiatives of Grand Teton National Park. DISCOVER THE MAGNIFICENT LANDSCAPE AND WILD COMMUNITIES OF GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK, where the Teton Range rises abruptly from the high mountain valley known as Jackson Hole. From lush meadows and sage-covered floodplains to bare alpine rocks, the park is home to bald eagles, grizzly bears, river otters, and bison. If you have two hours or more... Grand Teton National Park Love to hike? Grab a map Want to see wildlife? Attracted to water? Paddle John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway and enjoy a short day hike or Go for a drive or hike to a a canoe, kayak or paddleboard Superintendent lakeshore walk. Get the Day popular wildlife viewing spot. on a lake (boat permit required) Hikes and Lakeshore Maps See page 4 for suggested or rent a boat. bulletin for more information places to catch a glimpse. David Vela Park Address Website Grand Teton National Park www.nps.gov/grandteton PO Box 170 Email Moose, WY 83012 grte_info@nps.gov Visitor Centers and Information Talk to a Ranger? To speak to a Grand Teton National and options. Like bicycling? Ride your Prefer a road tour? bicycle on the multi-use Are you curious? Join a Discover the vistas from Jenny pathway. You can walk, run, ranger-led program. Check out Lake Scenic Drive or the or rollerblade too. No dogs on the schedule on pages 7-10 or wildlife along the Moose- the multi-use pathway, except check at a visitor center. Wilson Road. service dogs. If you have a day... Park ranger call 307–739–3399 for visitor information. Want to hike? Grab a map Want to go on a drive? Interested in history? Explore and enjoy a day hike or take a Discover the vistas from the the historic districts at Menors park’s turnouts along the Teton Ferry, Mormon Row, and Road Information 307–739–3682 longer trek. Join a ranger for Backcountry Permits 307–739–3309 a hike to Phelps Lake, Taggart Park Road and outer highway. Cunningham Cabin. Check Park Administration Offices 307–739–3300 Lake, or to Moose Ponds. Ask for a driving tour brochure the app for an audio tour of TTY/TDD Phone 307–739–3301 Check for hiking programs at the visitor center. Menors Ferry. Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center on pages 7-10 or Get the Day Information, park film, exhibits, permits, and bookstore. Open Hikes and Lakeshore Maps September 4-23 from 8am–7pm, September 24-October 28 from bulletin for more information 8am−5pm. 307-739-3399. and options. Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center Love water? Take a float trip on the Snake River or a scenic cruise on Jackson or Jenny lakes. Sensory exhibits and orientation to an eight-mile trail network. If you have more than a day... Open until September 23, 9am–5pm. 307-739-3654. Want to hit the trail? Grab a camping on Leigh Lake (permit Seeking adventure? Obtain Jenny Lake Visitor Center Information, bookstore. map and enjoy an all day hike required). a backcountry permit for back- Open until September 23, 8am–5pm. 307-739-3392. to Lake Solitude, Surprise Lake, Jenny Lake Ranger Station Closed for the season. or explore Death Canyon. Feel lucky? Try your luck packing trip. fishing one of the world Want to climb a mountain? Like to paddle? Paddle String famous lakes or streams in the Hire a professional mountain- Lake and portage to Leigh Lake park (WY license required) or guide or take a climbing class. Colter Bay Visitor Center Information, exhibits, park for solitude and spectacular hire a fishing guide. film, permits, and bookstore. Open until October 8, 8am–5pm. views of Mount Moran. Try Permits available from the Craig Thomas and Colter Bay visitor centers. 307-739-3594. Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center Located in the town of Jackson, WY. Information, exhibits, and bookstore. Open daily in September 8am–7pm. October and November 9am–5pm. 307-733-3316. Entrance Fees Entry Grand Teton: 7 days $35 per vehicle; $30 per motorcycle; $20 per person for single hiker or bicyclist. Annual Grand Teton GET OUTSIDE WITH YOUR FAMILY! Explore what Grand Teton has to offer the whole family. Look for special ranger programs for kids, hikes, drives, and adventures you can enjoy. EXPLORE MENORS FERRY Learn how homesteaders and dude ranchers crossed the powerful Snake River during the early 1900s. CHECKOUT A BACKPACK Learn about nature’s wonders as you explore the park. Backpacks have supplies to track, sketch, and journal about the natural world. Check out a backpack at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center or Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve. $70 allows entrance to Grand Teton National Park for 12 months from date of purchase. America the Beautiful Pass Covers entrance and standard amenity recreation fees on public lands managed by the Department of the Interior agencies and the Department of Agriculture’s U.S. Forest Service. The pass is good at vehicle-based entry sites for all occupants in a single, non-commercial vehicle. CUNNINGHAM CABIN Explore the early life of a homesteader. Visit the oldest standing cabin in the valley located on Highway 89, between Elk Ranch Flats and Triangle X Ranch. PICNIC Dine al fresco at one of the park picnic areas. Head north for views of Jackson Lake from six different picnic areas. GO TO THE TOP OF SIGNAL MOUNTAIN Stand on top of a mountain! Drive the highest road in the park, to 7,727 feet, Signal Mountain Summit Road. Take in the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and Jackson Hole. TAKE A HIKE WITH YOUR FAMILY Take your kids on a trail for education, exercise, and enjoyment. Explore the park with a ranger and learn about the geology, plants, people, and wildlife. Ranger hikes are recommended for families with children who are comfortable walking 2-3 miles. Great hikes for families include Taggart Lake, Hidden Falls, Phelps Lake, and Swan Lake. Check out the Hiking Guide in the center of this newspaper for more information and options. Annual Pass: $80 Military Annual Pass: Free For active duty U.S. military personnel and dependents Become a Junior Ranger Senior Lifetime Pass: $80 Are you a kid or young at heart? Senior Annual Pass: $20 Learn about Grand Teton’s wildlife, history, U.S. citizens 62 or older and geology by becoming a Junior Ranger. Access Lifetime Pass: Free Ask for booklet at a visitor center! Booklet A lifetime pass for U.S. citizens with permanent disabilities also available in Spanish. Every Kid in a Park, 4th Grade Pass: Free Free to U.S. 4th grade students beginning September 1st of the year the student begins 4th grade. Covers entrance fees same as America the Beautiful Pass. Qualifying students must complete an online activity and print off a paper voucher to exchange for the pass. Visit: everykidinapark.gov for more information. 2 Grand Teton Guide, Fall 2018 CAMPING IS A GREAT WAY TO IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE STUNNING SCENERY OF GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK. There are many options for camping. If you are feeling adventurous and searching for solitude, get a permit to pitch a tent in the backcountry. Looking for a few more comforts? You can tent camp or park and plug in your recreational vehicle at over 1,000 campsites at eight park campgrounds. For campground status contact entrance stations or visitor centers. Camping is not permitted within the park along roadsides, at overlooks, or parking areas. Doubling up in campsites is prohibited and there are no overflow facilities. Campgrounds Most sites offer standard amenities including modern comfort stations, potable water, metal fire grates, picnic tables, and metal bear boxes(see page 4). The maximum length of stay is seven days per person at Jenny Lake, and 14 days at all other campgrounds— no more than 30 days in the park per year (14 days at Jenny Lake). Gros Ventre Campground 307-734-4431 Groups: 307-543-3100 Grassy Lake Road in the John D. Rockefeller, Jr Memorial Parkway has 20 dispersed campsites with vault toilets and bear boxes, but no potable water. These sites are free of charge and available first-come, firstserved beginning June 1. Dates Average Fill time Type Reserve Sites Cost per night, Standard/Senior & Access Amenities/Restrictions May 4–Oct. 12 evening Standard site no 264 $29/$14.50 Electric hookup no 36 $53/$38.50 dump station, 45-foot length limit Group site yes 5 $31 + $9/$4.50 (per camper) Standard site no 49 $29/$14.50 Hiker/Biker site no 10 $12/$6 Standard site no 56 $32/$16 ($11 Hiker/Biker) Electric hookup no 25 $54/$37 Standard site no 322 $31/$15.50 Electric hookup no 13 $53/$39 Hiker/Biker site no Group site yes 11 $31 + $9/$4.50 (per camper) Pull-through site yes 94 $72/$57 Back-in site yes 9 $62/$47 Jenny Lake Campground 307-543-3390 May 4–Sept. 30 Signal Mountain Campground 307-543-2831 May 11–Oct. 14 Colter Bay Campground 307-543-2811, ext #1057 Groups: 307-543-3100 May 24–Sept. 30 early morning morning afternoon tents only pay showers nearby, dump station, 30-foot length limit pay showers nearby, dump station, 45-foot length limit $12/$6 Colter Bay RV Park 307-543-3100 May 10–Oct. 7 Lizard Creek Campground 307-543-2831 Closed for the season September 3 Headwaters Campground 307-543-2861 June 1–Sept. 30 afternoon Standard site some 34 $37.50/$20 showers included Headwaters RV Park 307-543-2861 May 17–Sept. 30 call Full hookups yes 97 $74/$60 showers included, 45-foot length limit call full hookups, no fire grates Backpacking Obtain a backcountry permit for all overnight trips in the park or parkway at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center until October 31 or Colter Bay Visitor Center until October 7. On November 1 and throughout the winter permits may be obtained at Park Headquarters in Moose. One-third of backcountry campsites can be reserved in advance ($45 fee) from early January until May 15. The fee for a walk-in permit is $35. Park approved bear-resistant food storage canisters are required. Canisters are available for free check out. More information available at go.nps.gov/tetonbackcountry SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS GROS VENTRE ROUNDABOUT Gros Ventre Junction on U.S. Highway 26/89/191 will be under construction through November 2018. Expect traffic delays and plan ahead. The Gros Ventre Road Junction has an average daily traffic volume of approximately 14,200 vehicles and almost 200 bicycle riders during the summer. Safety concerns have been identified at this location, for vehicles, bicycles/pedestrians, and wildlife. A roundabout is the most effective solution. BE PREPARED AND PLAN AHEAD Construction: April–November 2018 Expect: 15-minute maximum delays 5 am–8 pm 30-minute maximum delays 8 pm–5 am No parking/stopping allowed 1/2 mile from intersection. These construction delays should be considered in addition to busy summer traffic. GROS VENTRE ROAD CLOSURE The Gros Ventre Road, which provides access to Kelly and Gros Ventre Campground, may be closed for up to two weeks after September 15 between 9 am and 3 pm. Reroute via Antelope Flats Road. PATHWAY CLOSURE A temporary pathway closure between the Gros Ventre River Bridge and north of the Gros Ventre Intersection will occur for approximately two weeks in late September. Experienced pathway users may travel along U.S. Hwy 26/89/191 on the road shoulder. Grand Teton Guide, Fall 2018 3 GRIZZLY AND BLACK BEARS thrive in Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. You may encounter a bear anywhere at anytime. Some of the most popular areas and trails pass through excellent bear habitat. Be Bear Aware! Hiking in bear habitat BE ALERT watch for bears, fresh tracks, or scat. MAKE NOISE in areas with limited visibility. CARRY BEAR SPRAY and know how to use it. HIKE IN GROUPS of three or more people. DO NOT RUN, back away slowly. Bear Encounter Check at visitor centers or ranger stations for recent bear activity before hiking, and respect all bear management closure areas. • If you encounter a bear (most common)— BEAR AWARE slowly back away. • If the bear charges at you (rare)—stand your ground and use bear spray. Grizzly Bear • If a bear charges and makes contact with you (very rare)—fall onto your stomach and “play dead.” • If a bear stalks you, then attacks (extremely Food Storage Required Keep a Clean Camp BEAR Odors attract bears into campgrounds and picnic AWARE areas. Regulations require that all food, garbage, service stations, and bookstores inside the park, as well as in many stores in the surrounding communities. If a bear charges at you: • Remove the safety clip. • Aim slightly downward and adjust for crosswind. confiscated, and you may be fined. rare)—fight back. toiletries, pet food, coolers and food containers FOOD KEEP FOOD STORAGE FOOD (empty or full), and cookware (clean or dirty) be • If a bear attacks you in your tent (extremely STORAGE REQUIRED STORED REQUIRED stored in a hard-sided vehicle with the windows rare)—fight back. rolled up or in a bear-resistant food locker when Bear spray is sold at gift shops, Improperly stored or unattended food will be • Spray at the charging bear so that the bear must pass through a cloud of spray. • If the bear continues to charge: spray into the bear’s face. not in immediate use or attended to, day or toothpaste, fuel products, suntan lotion, candles, and bug repellent in the same manner as food. • Never store food, garbage or toiletries in tents. night. Failure to follow regulations is a violation of federal law, and may result in a citation. • Place all trash and recyclables in bear-resistant cans and dumpsters. • Never leave your backpack unattended. • Immediately report careless campers and all Once discharged, it is difficult to tell how much spray remains in the canister and it should be recycled. Please recycle at a visitor center. Check the expiration date on bear spray to ensure • Never allow a bear to get human food. • If approached by a bear while eating, gather your food, and retreat to a safe distance. bear sightings to the campground host or nearest ranger. • Bears that receive human food often become aggressive and must be relocated or killed. its effectiveness. WHAT KIND OF BEAR DID YOU SEE? • Treat odorous products such as soap, Both grizzly bears and black bears live in the park and parkway. Color is misleading – both species vary from blonde to black. Black Bear Grizzly Color ranges from blonde to black Color ranges from blonde to black No distinctive shoulder hump Distinctive shoulder hump Face profile is straight from nose to tip of ears Face profile appears dished in Ears are short and rounded Ears are tall and pointed Front claws are longer and less curved (2-4” long) Front claws are shorter and more curved (1-2” long) Where to Look for Wildlife ALL ANIMALS REQUIRE FOOD, WATER, AND SHELTER. Each species also has particular living space or habitat requirements. To learn more about wildlife habitats and behavior, attend ranger-led activities. While observing wildlife, please park in designated turnouts, not on the roadway. Remember animals are adapted to live in this environment. Please do not interfere. OXBOW BEND One mile east of Jackson Lake Junction. Slow-moving water provides habitat for fish such as suckers and trout that become food for river otters, ospreys, bald eagles, American white pelicans and common mergansers. Beavers and muskrats may swim past. Moose browse on abundant willows at the water’s edge. Elk occasionally graze in open aspen groves to the east, while grizzly bears occasionally look for prey. 4 Grand Teton Guide, Fall 2018 WILLOW FLATS BLACKTAIL PONDS North of Jackson Lake Dam. Moose browse on willow shrubs. At dawn and dusk, elk graze on grasses growing among willows. Predators such as wolves and grizzly bears pursue elk calves in early summer. Beavers create ponds by damming streams that also harbor muskrats and waterfowl. Half-mile north of Moose on U.S. Highway 26/89/191. Old beaver ponds have filled with sediment and now support grassy meadows where elk graze during the cooler parts of the day. Several species of ducks feed in the side channels of the Snake River while moose browse on willows. ELK RANCH FLATS TIMBERED ISLAND Stop at Elk Ranch turnout on U.S. Highway 26/89/191 just north of Cunningham Cabin. Pronghorn, bison, elk, and even domestic animals using a grazing permit frequent this area. The open grasses attract a variety of animals. A forested ridge southeast of Jenny Lake. Small bands of pronghorn, the fastest North American land mammal, forage on nearby sagebrush throughout the day. Elk leave the shade of Timbered Island at dawn and dusk to eat grasses growing among the surrounding sagebrush. SNAKE RIVER Jackson Lake Dam south to Moose. Elk and bison graze in grassy meadows along the river. Bison also eat grasses on the sagebrush benches above the river. Bald eagles, ospreys and great blue herons build large stick nests within sight of the river. Beavers and moose eat willows lining the waterway. ANTELOPE FLATS AND MORMON ROW East of U.S. Highway 26/89/191, one mile north of Moose Junction. Bison and pronghorn graze the flats. Watch for coyotes, Northern harriers and American kestrels hunting mice, Uinta ground squirrels, and grasshoppers. Sage grouse, sage thrashers, and sparrows also frequent the area. Park Regulations & Safety Things to Know For a safe and enjoyable visit, please know these park regulations and safety advisories. For additional information find a ranger or visit www.nps.gov/grandteton. Launching, landing or operating an unmanned aircraft, such as a drone, is prohibited. Pets must be restrained on a leash (6 feet or less) and stay SAFE WILDLIFE VIEWING is everyone’s responsibility. Wildlife draw many to this beautiful place seeking out the smallest calliope hummingbird or the largest grizzly bear. within 30 feet of roadways. Owners must properly dispose of feces. Pets are not allowed in visitor centers, on ranger-led activities, on the multi-use pathway, or on park hiking trails. Pets are ONLY allowed in boats on Jackson Lake—no other waterways. Service animals must assist with a disability and must be Roadside viewing is popular, but please keep the road clear. Use pullouts or pull completely off the roadway to the 25 yards (23right m) of the white line. Always maintain a distance of at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other wildlife. Use binoculars or a spotting scope for 100 yards (91a good m) view. Never position yourself between a female and offspring—mothers It is illegal to feed any wildlife—birds, ground are very protective. Let wildlife thrive undisturbed. If your actions squirrels, bears, or foxes. Wildlife start to depend on cause an animal to flee, you are too close. trained to perform tasks to aid with the disability. Dogs whose sole function is providing comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Visitors who plan to take a service animal into the backcountry should complete an acknowledgment form in a visitor center at their convenience. people resulting in poor nutrition. If fed, any animal may become Leave what you find. Keep items in their natural setting for unhealthy, bite you, and expose you to rabies. others to enjoy. Picking wildflowers, historic objects, archaeological artifacts, natural features, or collecting items such as antlers is prohibited. Edible fruits, berries, and nuts may be gathered by hand for personal use and consumption. The 25 yards (23 m) 100 yards (91 m) allowable limit is one quart/per species/per person/per day. The collection of mushrooms is prohibited. Campfires are allowed at designated campgrounds and picnic areas within metal fire grates, unless fire restrictions are in effect. A permit may be obtained for campfires below the high water line on the west shoreline of Jackson Lake at the Colter Bay Visitor Center. Fires are prohibited in other areas. Fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are prohibited at all times. Wyoming state firearm regulations apply. Carrying or possessing firearms is prohibited in buildings where notice is posted. Firearms may not be discharged in a national park, except by permitted individuals during legal hunting seasons. Bicycles are permitted on public roadways, the multi-use pathway, and on the Colter Bay Marina breakwater. Ride single-file on the right side of the road and wear a helmet. Riding bicycles or other wheeled vehicles in the backcountry is prohibited. Motorized vehicles, including electric bicycles (e-bikes) are prohibited on the multi-use pathway. GET ON THE WATER and enjoy unparalleled views of wildlife and mountains, world-class fishing, and fun around every bend. The Snake River flows through the heart of the park and features fly fishing, great wildlife viewing, and rapids depending on time of year. Many of the more accessible lakes are open for a variety of activities. Motorboats are permitted on Jenny Lake(10 horsepower maximum) and Jackson Lake. Human-powered vessels are permitted on Jackson, Jenny, Phelps, Emma Matilda, Two Ocean, Taggart, Bradley, Bearpaw, Leigh, and String lakes. Boat permits and Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) A Wyoming fishing license is required and may be decals are required for all motorized or non-motor- purchased at Signal Mountain Lodge front desk, Colter Bay ized watercraft including kayaks, canoes, rafts, and stand-up paddle Marina, Headwaters Lodge, and Snake River Anglers at Dornans. (SUP) boards, inflatable or hard-sided. Permits may be purchased at For more information pick up a Fishing Brochure. Fishing in the visitor centers in Moose, Jenny Lake (cash only) or Colter Bay. Yellowstone National Park requires a separate permit. Only use non-motorized forms of transportation on the multi-use pathway. Persons with physical disabilities may use battery-operated transportation. Do not access the pathway from dusk to dawn for your safety and wildlife’s safety. Dogs are not allowed on the pathway. Service animals may travel on the pathway (as defined above). Soaking in pools where thermal waters originate is prohibited to protect resources. Soaking in adjacent run-off streams is allowed, provided they do not contain an originating water source. These waters may harbor organisms that cause diseases. Hikers should stay on trails. Short-cutting is prohibited and damages fragile vegetation promoting erosion. Know your limitations. For your safety, leave your itinerary with a Drain, Clean, Dry! Help protect park waterways and native Swimming is permitted in all lakes. There is a designated responsible party. Solo travel is not advised. Permits are not fish from the spread of aquatic invasive species. Drain, swimming beach at Colter Bay with picnic facilities; however, required for day hikes. Trails may be snow-covered and require an clean, and dry all equipment including boats, boots and waders there are no lifeguards. The Snake River is a swift, cold river ice axe for safe travel in late fall. Visitor centers sell before entering a new body of water. Never empty containers of presenting numerous dangers; and swimming is not recommended. topographic maps and trail guides. bait, fish, plants, or animals into park waters. Wyoming state law requires boaters to purchase an AIS decal and have vessels inspected prior to launch at AIS check stations. . All vessels must carry a USCG approved personal flotation device (PFD) of the appropriate size for each Use experience and good judgment when climbing or traveling in the mountains. The Jenny Lake Ranger Station is person on board including stand up paddle boards. PFDs must be closed for the season. For route and climbing information or to pick up Sailboats, water skiing, and windsurfers are accessible and in good working condition. PFDs should be worn any permit involving climbing visit the Craig Thomas Discovery and allowed only on Jackson Lake. while boating. All passengers under 13 years of age must wear a Visitor Center, after October 28, go to park headquarters in Moose. PFD whenever a vessel is underway or be within an enclosed cabin. Registration is not required for day climbs. Backcountry permits are Personal watercraft/jet skis are prohibited on all waters within the park. Pets are only allowed on a permitted vessel on Jackson Lake, but not in lakeshore campsites or in the water. Pets are not allowed on the Snake River or any other body of water in the park. Only human-powered vessels are allowed on the Snake River within the park and parkway. A permit is required. The required for all overnight stays. Leave your itinerary with a responsible party. Solo travel is not advised. Snake River has constantly shifting channels and logjams that may Traveling in the mountains has inherent risks including present risks for boaters. Read the launch site bulletin boards for potential rockfall. Serious injury or death could occur. current river conditions. Grand Teton Guide, Fall 2018 5 Changes of Autumn continued from cover Members of the ungulate family – such as elk, deer, and moose – find their mates during the fall months. Listen for elk bugles in the park—a key sign of fall. Bull elk will gather harems of cow elk, then challenge other males to establish dominance. These challenges include bugling and sparring. Younger bulls will often back off from larger males, but similarly sized bulls will often confront each other. Males use these battles to show their strength, and the bulls often sustain injuries, but rarely fatal ones, during the struggle. The strongest male wins and thus earns the right to mate. As snow blows in and fall shifts into winter, elk will continue their migration south to the National Elk Refuge, where they will make their winter home. Bull Elk Bison also join in on fall migration. While summers are spent in the eastern sagebrush plains of the park, the coming of fall sees bison head south to lower elevations. Less snow makes it easier to reach the grasses that are their main food source. Bison are experts at using their large heads to plow snow off the ground to reach the grass below. While you travel through Grand Teton, look out for the various animals also making their journey through the park. Fall is a time for movement and change, but will soon ease into the quiet of winter. Take in all the changes around you and breathe in the new energy that comes with the arrival of fall. Pronghorn Buck The Science of Color Black Hawthorn Crataegus douglasii During spring and summer, leaves use sunlight to generate food for the plant. Chlorophyll harnesses the sun’s energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into carbohydrates to sustain growth, giving leaves their green color. In fall, the length of daylight and cooling temperatures cause leaves to stop generating food. Chlorophyll breaks down and the green color disappears allowing other pigments to become visible like carotenoids that produce brillant yellow and orange leaves. Some leaves will generate red pigments, anthocyanins, due to excess water and sugars. Temperature and moisture control the intensity and duration of the colors. A wet growing season followed by dry, sunny autumn days with crisp, cool (but not freezing) nights seems to yield the best colors. Quaking Aspen Populus tremuloides 6 Grand Teton Guide, Fall 2018 Willow Salix exigua Narrowleaf Cottonwood Populus angustifolia Visit Moose Check at a visitor center for changes to program schedule. Enjoy a variety of trails, activities, scenic drives and ranger programs as well as historic districts and iconic views of the Teton Range. Things to See CRAIG THOMAS DISCOVERY & VISITOR CENTER Visit the center for trip planning, weather, permits, and camping information. Experience the exhibits or view the park film in the auditorium. Shop at the Grand Teton Association bookstore for gifts, educational books, and postcards. The visitor center is open daily September 4–23 from 8 am–7 pm, and September 24–October 28 from 8 am–5 pm. MENORS FERRY HISTORIC DISTRICT Take a self-guided tour around this historic district and learn about Jackson Hole history through pictorial displays at the Maud Noble Cabin. Visit the General Store, open daily until September 23, 10 am–4:30 pm, and purchase turn-of-the-centurythemed goods. THE MURIE RANCH Learn about the Murie family wilderness conservation legacy by taking this selfguided one mile roundtrip walk. Ask a Mon Tue ranger for directions to access the ranch and view historic buildings where landmark wilderness legislation was drafted. M