Grand Teton Guide

Y O U R G U I D E T O T H E PA R K • SUMMER 2018 PHOTO COURTESY/ GRAND TETON LODGE COMPANY The sun begins to rise and the high peaks of the Teton Range reflect in the calm, still waters of the Snake River. Quietly and patiently the water begins cascading downstream. Once calm, now rushing, the water pulses swiftly through, crashing and sculpting the valley floor as it has for thousands of years. The river, the heart and soul of Grand Teton, amazing and strong, tranquil and serene, yet mighty and powerful, gives this park life. You will be amazed at what your river has to offer. Wild & Scenic Rivers Act Join the celebration! The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act turns 50 this year. The Act was created by Congress on October 2, 1968 to preserve rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values in a freeflowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. Passage of the Craig Thomas Snake Headwaters Legacy Act in 2009 added 414 miles of rivers and streams in “The rivers flow not past, but through us. Thrilling, tingling, vibrating every fiber and cell of the substance of our bodies, making them glide and sing.” -John Muir the Jackson Hole area to the system. The Snake River Headwaters includes 13 rivers and 25 separate river segments in Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks; the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway; National Elk Refuge; Bridger-Teton National Forest; and small portions of state and private lands. The Snake River, which runs all the way through Grand Teton from north to south, consists of a 47-mile segment from its source to Jackson Lake, designated a wild river and a 24.8-mile segment from 1 mile downstream of Jackson Lake Dam to 1 mile downstream of the Teton Park Road • Trails to Hidden Falls and a scenic viewpoint called Lower Inspiration Point are open. • No flush toilets. • Limited parking, especially for buses, RVs, and trailers • Come early or arrive late to avoid crowds. See page 12 for more information. Gros Ventre Roundabout • Expect traffic delays 15-minute max delays 5 am–8 pm 30-minute max delays 8 pm–5 am • Construction delays should be considered in addition to busy seasonal traffic. See page 3 for more information. Be Safe, Go Slow, Be Aware Thank you for being patient as your park is renewed for the future. Want to learn more? Make your Splash! #makeyoursplash As you travel through Grand Teton National Park, reflect on what these wild and scenic rivers mean to you. Enjoy the recreational opportunities on the Snake River including fishing, kayaking, canoeing and rafting. View the river from scenic overlooks. Hike along the river and experience the sounds, tranquility, vistas, opportunities to view wildlife and so much more. See for yourself what your river has to offer. Share your experience with us at #makeyoursplash and #mygrandteton. Explore more about rivers Attend a ranger program about wild and scenic rivers, schedules on pages 7-10. Check out page 13 to learn more about Wild and Scenic Rivers. Jenny Lake Renewal Park Construction Jenny Lake bridge at Moose, designated a scenic river. Portions of the Buffalo Fork of the Snake River, Gros Ventre River, and Pacific Creek are also designated scenic rivers. 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. General Store—sells camping and hiking supplies, groceries, gifts, books, postcards, and snacks. Jenny Lake Campground—tents only. Multi-use Pathway—unaffected by construction. Due to congestion, please begin from another location. Looking for wildlife? Construction at the trailhead. Want to sleep under the stars? Check out a ranger program! Discover bears, pronghorn, elk, moose, bison, and more. Campground and RV park information. See pages 7-10 See page 4 See page 3 Grand Teton Guide Published By Grand Teton Association, a not-forprofit organization, dedicated to supporting the interpretive, scientific, and educational activities 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 Prefer a road tour? Attracted to water? Paddle John D. Rockefeller, Jr Memorial Parkway and enjoy a short day hike or Discover the vistas from Jenny a canoe, kayak or paddleboard Superintendent lakeshore walk. See the hiking Lake Scenic Drive or the on a lake (boat permit required) David Vela insert in this guide. wildlife along the Moose- or rent a boat. 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 Want to see wildlife? Wilson Road. Like bicycling? Ride your Go for a drive or hike to a Are you curious? Join a bicycle on the multi-use popular wildlife viewing spot. ranger-led program. Check out pathway. You can walk, run, or See page 4 for suggested the schedule on pages 7-10 or rollerblade too. No dogs on the places to catch a glimpse. check with visitor center. multi-use pathway. If you have a day... Call a Ranger? To speak to a Grand Teton National Park ranger call 307–739–3399 for visitor information. Love to hike? Grab a map Want to go on a drive? a scenic cruise on Jackson Lake and enjoy a day hike or take a Discover the vistas from the or Jenny Lake. longer trek. Join a ranger for park’s turnouts along the Teton Road Information 307–739–3682 a hike to Hidden Falls, Phelps Park Road and outer highway. Backcountry Permits 307–739–3309 Lake, Taggart Lake, or around Ask for a driving tour brochure Park Administration Offices 307–739–3300 TTY/TDD Phone 307–739–3301 Swan Lake. Check for hiking at the visitor center. programs on pages 7-10 or Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center see the hiking insert for more Information, park film, exhibits, permits, and bookstore. Open information and options.. Interested in history? Explore the historic districts at Menors Ferry, Mormon Row and Cunningham Cabin. Check Attracted to water? Take a the app for an audio tour of float trip on the Snake River or Menors Ferry. daily during the summer 8am–7pm. 307-739-3399. Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center If you have more than a day... Sensory exhibits and orientation to an eight-mile trail network. Love to hike? Grab a map Moran. Try camping on a Leigh Seeking adventure? Obtain a Open daily during the summer 9am–5pm. 307-739-3654. and enjoy an all day hike to Lake (permit required). backcountry permit for Jenny Lake Visitor Center Information, bookstore. Lake Solitude, Surprise Lake, or Open daily during the summer 8am–7pm. 307-739-3392. explore Death Canyon. Jenny Lake Ranger Station Climbing information and permits. Open daily during the summer 8am–5pm. Feel lucky? Try your luck fishing backpacking trip. one of the world famous lakes Want to climb a mountain? Attracted to water? Paddle or streams in the park (WY Hire a professional mountain- String Lake and portage to fishing license required) or hire a guide, take a climbing class, or 307-739-3343. Leigh Lake for solitude and fishing guide. get advice from the Jenny Lake Colter Bay Visitor Center Information, exhibits, park spectacular views of Mount film, permits, and bookstore. Open daily during the summer 8am–7pm. 307-739-3594. Flagg Ranch Information Station Information. Open daily during the summer 10am–3pm. 307-543-2372. Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center Located in the town of Jackson, WY. Information, exhibits, and bookstore. Open daily during the summer 8am–7pm. 307-733-3316. Entrance Fees Ranger Station. GET OUTSIDE WITH YOUR FAMILY! Explore what Grand Teton has to offer for the whole family. Look for special ranger programs for kids, hikes, drives, and adventures you can enjoy. 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. Entry Grand Teton: 7 days $35 per vehicle; $30 per motorcycle; $20 per person for single hiker or bicyclist. Annual Grand Teton $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. GO FOR A SWIM Your whole family can cool off in any one of the lakes in the park. Check out the Colter Bay Swim Beach for one of the best places to take a dip. PICNIC Dine al fresco at one of the park 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 range and Jackson Hole. TAKE A HIKE WITH YOUR FAMILY Take your kids out 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. See the hiking insert for more information and options. Annual Pass: $80 Become a Junior Ranger Military Annual Pass: Free Are you a kid or young at heart? For active duty U.S. military personnel and dependents Learn about Grand Teton’s wildlife, history, Senior Lifetime Pass: $80 and geology by becoming a Junior Ranger. Senior Annual Pass: $20 Ask for booklet at a visitor center! Booklet U.S. citizens 62 or older also available in Spanish. Access Lifetime Pass: Free A lifetime pass for U.S. citizens with permanent disabilities Every Kid in a Park, 4th Grade Pass: Free Free to U.S. 4th grade students beginning September 1st the year the student begins 4th grade. Covers entrance fees. 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 CUNNINGHAM CABIN Explore the early life of a homesteader. Visit the oldest standing cabin in the valley. It's located on Highway 89, between Elk Ranch Flats and Triangle X Ranch. Grand Teton Guide, Summer 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. 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 307-543-3296 Groups: 307-543-3100 Grassy Lake Road in the John D. Rockefeller, Jr 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, first-served beginning June 1. Dates Average Fill time Type Reserve Sites Cost per night, Standard/Senior & Access Amenities/Restrictions May 4–Oct. 14 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/$16.50 Electric hookup no 25 $54/$35.50 Hiker/Biker site no 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 Standard site no 60 $30/$14.50 Hiker/Biker site no Jenny Lake Campground 307-543-3296 May 4–Sept. 30 Signal Mountain Campground 307-543-2831 May 11–Oct. 14 Colter Bay Campground 307-543-3296 Groups: 307-543-3100 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. May 24–Sept. 30 early morning morning afternoon tents only pay showers nearby, dump station, 30-foot length limit $11 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 June 15–Sept. 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 afternoon full hookups, no fire grates 30-foot length limit $11 Backpacking Obtain a backcountry permit for all overnight trips in the park or parkway at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor or Colter Bay Visitor Center and the Jenny Lake Ranger Station. 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. SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS GROS VENTRE ROUNDABOUT Gros Ventre Junction on U.S. Highway 26/89/191 will be under construction AprilNovember 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 five nights in the late spring to early summer from approximately 6 pm to 5 am and 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 prior to May 15 and for approximately two weeks in late September. Experienced pathway users may travel along U.S. Hwy 26/89/191 on the road shoulder. Road construction will take place between the town of Jackson, WY and the Jackson Hole Airport on U.S. Highway 26/89/191. Grand Teton Guide, Summer 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, Summer 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. Here pronghorn, bison, elk, and even domestic animals using a grazing permit frequent this area. The open grasses here 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, within Grand Teton National Park is prohibited. 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. Roadside viewing is popular, but please keep the road clear. Use pullouts or pull completely off the roadway to the right of the white line. Always maintain a distance of at least 100 yards 25 yards (23 m) 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 It is illegal to feed any wildlife—birds, ground animals must assist with a disability and must be trained to squirrels, bears, or foxes. Wildlife start to depend on perform tasks to aid with the disability. Dogs whose sole people resulting in poor nutrition. If fed, any animal may become function is providing comfort or emotional support do not qualify unhealthy, bite you, and expose you to rabies. as service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Visitors 100 yards (91 m) from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other We hope you enjoy your time here—watching wildlife. Use binoculars or a spotting scope for a good view. Never position yourself between a female and offspring—mothers Pets must be restrained on a leash (6 feet or less) and stay wildlife, hiking, or relaxing—and remember your connection who plan to take a service animal into the backcountry should complete an acknowledgment form in a visitor center or ranger station at their convenience. to this place long after you return home. are very protective. Let wildlife thrive undisturbed. If your actions Leave what you find. Keep items in their natural setting for cause an animal to flee, you are too close. 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 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 mild 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. bicycles or other wheeled vehicles in the backcountry is prohibited. Roadway shoulders are narrow—use caution. 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. Please do not walk your dog on the pathway. Service animals may travel on the pathway. Soaking in pools where thermal waters originate is A Wyoming fishing license is required and may be Boat permits are required for all motorized or non-motorized watercraft including kayaks, canoes, purchased at Signal Mountain Lodge front desk, Colter Bay prohibited to protect resources. Soaking in adjacent run-off streams is allowed, provided they do not contain an rafts, and stand-up paddle (SUP) boards, inflatable or hard-sided. Marina, Headwaters Lodge, and Snake River Anglers at Dornans. originating water source. These waters may harbor organisms that Permits may be purchased at the visitor centers in Moose, Jenny Lake For more information pick up a Fishing Brochure. Fishing in cause diseases. (cash only) or Colter Bay. Get a boating or floating brochure from a Yellowstone National Park requires a separate permit. park visitor center for more information or go.nps.gov/tetonboating. Swimming is permitted in all lakes. There is a designated Drain, Clean, Dry! Help protect park waterways and native fish from the spread of aquatic invasive species. Drain, clean, and dry all equipment including boats, boots and waders before entering a new body of water. Never empty containers of 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. swimming beach at Colter Bay with picnic facilities; however, 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 there are no lifeguards. The Snake River is a swift, cold river responsible party. Solo travel is not advised. Permits are not presenting numerous dangers; and swimming is not recommended. required for day hikes. Trailhead parking areas fill in July and . All vessels must carry a USCG approved personal flotation device (PFD) of the appropriate size for each person on board including stand up paddle boards. PFDs must be August. During early summer, trails may be snow-covered and require an ice axe for safe travel. Visitor centers sell topographic maps and trail guides. accessible and in good working condition. PFDs should be worn Use experience and good judgment when climbing or Sailboats, water skiing, and windsurfers are while boating. All passengers under 13 years of age must wear a traveling in the mountains. The Jenny Lake Ranger allowed only on Jackson Lake. PFD whenever a vessel is underway or be within an enclosed cabin. Personal watercraft are prohibited on all waters within Only human-powered vessels are allowed on the Snake the park. River within the park and parkway. A permit is required, see 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. “Boat Permits” section. The Snake River has constantly shifting channels and logjams that may present risks for boaters. Read the launch site bulletin boards for current river conditions. Station is staffed from early June to early September by climbing rangers who provide weather and route conditions, or check www.tetonclimbing.blogspot.com. Registration is not required for day climbs. Backcountry permits are required for all overnight stays. Pick up any permit involving climbing at the Jenny Lake Ranger Station. Leave your itinerary with a responsible party. Solo travel is not advised. Grand Teton Guide, Summer 2018 5 L PROJECT GRAND TETON ZERO-LANDFIL of America Inc., National The National Park Service, Subaru and park concessioners have Parks Conservation Association, nt of visitor-generated joined together to reduce the amou landfills. Together, we hope waste that national parks send to trash problem at our parks, the t ou ab ss ne are aw c bli pu se to rai their environmental footprint and to educate visitors to reduce when visiting our parks. Green Your Visit Grand Teton can be a healthy and sustainable place for you and future generation s with your help. Recycle. Bear-resistant trash and recy cle containers are available throughout the park. Plastic bottles, glass, and aluminum recycling are foun d in most visitor areas. Additional items can be recycled, including propane canisters and bea r spray. You can help Grand Teton reach its goa l to be the first zero-landfill national park. Reuse. Use one of our many refilling stations to refill your reusable water bottle. Not hing tastes better than fresh Grand Teton wat er. For coffee or other beverages bring an insulated mug. Reusable bottles and mugs are also available for purchase throughout the park. Compost. If you eat at a park con cessionaire, the food waste is sent to a local compos ting facility. Keep the Air Clean. Don’t idle your car. Idling more than 10 seconds uses more fuel than restarting your car. Leave the car behind. Walking, hiking, and biking are low impact and have imm ense benefits. The park has 16 miles of multi-use pathways to get around the park plus connection s to Jackson. So bring (or rent) your bike, to slow down and enjoy the view. Enjoy locally grown and produc ed food. Visit any park dining facility to enjoy a healthy and sustainable meal. Our concessiona ires work hard to buy local and sustainable food to provide the perfect meal for your park adventu re. We have an app for that. Maps Tours Interactive official National Park Service map of Grand Teton National Park Discover rich natural and cultural resources with self-guided tours Explore Events and Ranger Prog