Amtrak Empire Builder Back To Normal Schedule

Amtrak announced last week that it will resume operating the Empire Builder (Trains 7/27 & 8/28) on its regular schedule and route in both directions, effective with the departures on January 12, 2015.

The return of the previous timetables from Seattle and Portland will offer more attractive arrival and departure times for the balance of the winter recreation season in the Flathead Valley of Montana, near Glacier National Park. Additionally, Leavenworth and Spokane, Wash., and Sandpoint, Idaho, passengers will again enjoy same-day round trips to Portland or Seattle. Three additional hours eastbound and 90 minutes westbound were added to the schedules in April west of St. Paul, Minn. This was done to accommodate $1 billion in BNSF construction projects to add capacity and to help improve service for all traffic on its route.

Amtrak and BNSF continue to work cooperatively on the operational and maintenance issues that affect Amtrak trains on this line. BNSF is committed to work to improve the performance of the Empire Builder going forward.

“Local community and business leaders depend on the Empire Builder and see Amtrak service as an important public transportation link,” said DJ Stadtler, Amtrak Executive Vice

Also effective with the schedule restoration, the Empire Builder will resume operating on its normal route in both directions in North Dakota. Amtrak will then discontinue the use of chartered buses to cover missed station stops in Grand Forks, Devils Lake and Rugby, N.D., which has been routine since May.



Jeff
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Grand Teton Lodge Company and Flagg Ranch Company Contribute $130,000 for Jenny Lake Project

The Grand Teton National Park Foundation has announced that the Grand Teton Lodge Company (GTLC) and Flagg Ranch Company, owned by Vail Resorts, have gifted a total of $130,000 in 2014 to support Inspiring Journeys, the multiyear restoration at Jenny Lake. This money was generated by an innovative lodging contribution program as well as a dollar-for-dollar match the organization created to incent their clients to contribute to this valuable improvement project that is restoring trails and resources around Jenny Lake. GTLC and Flagg Ranch Company have supported the Foundation’s work in the park since 1999, making the lodging group the largest and one of the longest running corporate partners in Foundation history.

Gifts from GTLC and Flagg Ranch Company properties (including Jenny Lake Lodge, Jackson Lake Lodge, Colter Bay and Headwaters at Flagg Ranch) originate through their Lodging Program, a voluntary program that allows guests to contribute $1 per night of their stay to the Foundation’s work in the park. Projects supported by GTLC have spanned a wide range of enhancements and educational initiatives that connect visitors to Grand Teton and improve resources.

“We are committed to sustaining our national park surroundings, and everything we do at GTLC is guided by our mission to Preserve, Protect, and Inspire,” said Alex Klein, Grand Teton Lodge Company and Flagg Ranch Company vice president and general manager. “We take our stewardship very seriously, and our guest donation program benefitting Jenny Lake restoration is one way that we can contribute to restoration of the majestic Grand Teton National Park for future generations.”

“Our longstanding relationship with Grand Teton Lodge Company continues to play a role in the success of our programming and improvements in Grand Teton,” Foundation President Leslie Mattson said. “In addition to this year’s gift, their combined support over the years has totaled more than $700,000, making GTLC one of our most loyal and generous partners. A special thanks goes to each and every guest who has contributed through the lodging program. It’s amazing to see so many visitors who are committed to improving and conserving Grand Teton.”

The lodging program originated in 1999 with Clay James, former president and general manager of GTLC, which was owned by CSX Corporation. Vail Resorts continued the program when it purchased the company in the latter part of 1999. James launched the initiative at Jenny Lake Lodge and Jackson Lake Lodge with the goal of educating visitors about the benefits of private support in parks while generating significant funding for on-the-ground projects in Grand Teton National Park.

By providing multiple opportunities for their employees to improve the park, GTLC continues to demonstrate its commitment to enhancing Grand Teton through volunteerism, a cornerstone of the company’s mission. In 2014, GTLC employees announced a goal of contributing 1,000 volunteer hours to Grand Teton over the next two years. Local employees chose to fulfill this challenge by completing trail work at various locations throughout the park, including brushing and clearing trails at Emma-Matilda Lakes, Phelps Lake, Death Canyon and Jenny Lake. Along with the work that was accomplished throughout the summer, GTLC employees participated in Vail Resorts’ annual Epic Promise Day in September. Vail Resorts’ Epic Promise Day is in its fifth season and is a one-day, employee volunteer event that features a service project in each of the resort’s communities. A total of 1,650 employees company-wide participated, volunteering a total of 6,600 hours in their communities.

To learn more about Grand Teton National Park Foundation, please visit www.gtnpf.org.

For more information on the hiking in the Grand Tetons, please visit our new hiking trail website.



Jeff
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Wyoming First Day Hikes Adds Door Prizes to Event

In what is becoming an increasingly popular New Year’s Day activity, Wyoming State Parks, Historic Sites and Trails provides “First Day Hikes” – a perfect way for Wyoming residents to celebrate the new year outdoors.

Nine New Year’s Day guided hikes held at venues statewide will be held in conjunction with similar hikes held in all 50 states; a part of the America’s State Parks First Day Hikes initiative.

Additionally this year, participants in this year’s hikes will have a chance at winning a Mountain Hardware Micro Ratio Down Jacket or State Parks and Historic Sites Annual Day Use permits. Each venue will give-away a day use permit, and names of all participants will be included in a January 15th drawing for the jacket.

This is the fourth consecutive year Wyoming is offering the First Day Hikes program. Adding a little spice to this year’s event is a friendly competition between the Wyoming and Arizona state park systems. The director of the state that registers the lower percentage of increased participation, compared to last year’s numbers, will take possession of and must wear the dreaded pink cowboy hat.

Park staff and volunteers will lead the hikes, which average one to two miles or longer depending on the state park or historic site. Details about hike locations, difficulty and length, terrain and tips regarding proper clothing are listed on the America’s State Parks website. Visit www.naspd.org to find a First Day Hike nearest you.

In Wyoming, hikes will be offered at the following locations and times:

Bear River State Park - Short 2.5 mile nature hike along the Bear River. Hike distance will vary upon participant’s abilities. Meet at the Visitor Center. Begin at 10 a.m.

Curt Gowdy State Park – Up to four mile hike on a trail to be determined. Meet at Aspen Grove Trail head at 1 p.m.

Edness K. Wilkins State Park – There will be two walks. One will be wheelchair accessible and the other will be on natural surface on the nature trail. Each 2 miles. Begin at 10 a.m.

Fort Bridger State Historic Site – one mile hike/walk around the historic site. Meet at entrance booth at 1 p.m. The hike is mostly level with no inclines.

Fort Fred Steele State Historic Site – up to two-mile hike, meet at bridge tender’s house parking lot at 10 a.m.

Guernsey State Park – 1.5 – 2 mile hike, start at 10 a.m.

Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site - 1.25 mile hike on Nature Trail and park road. Meet in main parking area at 10 a.m. Sneak peak at new visitor center displays and exhibits.

Keyhole State Park - starting at the Headquarters building and hiking to the Tatanka group shelter and back (approximately 1 mile) 10 a.m.

Sinks Canyon - Sinks Canyon hike will start at the Nature Trail Parking Lot in the Popo Agie Campground and proceed approximately 2 miles along the Canyon Loop trail. The start time will 9 a.m. Refreshments will be served in the Sage Yurt in Popo Agie Campground upon completion.

Participants are urged to wear adequate clothing, coffee and hot chocolate will be provided, Bonn Fire at most locations, this is a kids and family friendly event, entry fee to participating parks will be waived. Leashed dogs are welcome. All events are subject to change.

RSVPs are requested but not required. Please RSVP by emailing Paul.Gritten@wyo.gov.

WYOutside, a coalition of public and private organizations with a shared stake in promoting recreation to children and families, is a sponsor of the First Day Hikes.



Jeff
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Meet the Grand Teton Wildlife Brigade

Have you ever been caught in a bear jam? Whether it's in Yellowstone, the Great Smoky Mountains, or the Grand Tetons, there are usually volunteers around to help manage any potential conflicts between the bears and park visitors. This summer the Grand Teton National Park Foundation published a short video that helps to explain what exactly the Grand Teton Wildlife Brigade does on a daily basis to prevent human-bear conflicts:



For more information on hiking in the Grand Tetons, please visit our new hiking website.



Jeff
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Yellowstone Geyser Eruption Predictions Now Available On Your Smartphone and Tablet

The largest concentration of active geysers in the world—approximately half of the world’s total— is found in Yellowstone.

You can now discover the natural wonder of the most famous geyser of all, Old Faithful, and other geysers with a free app that you can use during your visit to the park and at home. The new app will help you find out when Old Faithful and five other predictable geysers could erupt.

The app also features a link to a webcam so that you can view live eruptions of Old Faithful and other nearby geysers. The FAQ section provides answers to several of the frequently asked questions that explain how a few geysers can be predicted and other fascinating details about Yellowstone’s geysers.

You can follow the Social Media Feed and see what’s happening in Yellowstone by browsing the park’s Twitter, YouTube and Flickr sites. Because every eruption is different, the app’s Photo Gallery contains an array of geyser eruption photos.

The NPS Geysers app was developed in partnership with Dr. Brett Oppegaard, Washington State University (Vancouver) and University of Hawaii, and the National Park Service, Yellowstone National Park and Harpers Ferry Center. The app was made possible, in part, by a donation from Canon USA, Inc., through the Yellowstone Park Foundation.

The NPS Geysers app is now available in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.



Jeff
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Concession Contracts Awarded for Guided Backpacking Services

National Park Service (NPS) Intermountain Regional Director Sue Masica announced Friday, December 12, that two separate offerors were selected to receive concession contracts to provide guided backpacking services for youth within Grand Teton National Park. The two contracts were awarded to Wilderness Ventures, Inc. and The TVRC Education Foundation, doing business as Teton Valley Ranch Camp. Each contract will cover a term of ten years.

Guided backpacking for youth participants—including associated transportation and food service—is currently provided at Grand Teton National Park by Wilderness Ventures, Inc. and The TVRC Education Foundation. Both contracts became effective January 1, 2005, and will expire on December 31, 2014. The NPS determined that these two existing concessioners were preferred offerors for the new contracts, pursuant to the terms of 36 Code of Federal Regulations,Part 51.

"Wilderness Ventures and The TVRC Education Foundation have provided a quality outdoor educational and recreational experience to young people for decades, and both concessioners have given youth a unique opportunity to enjoy and appreciate lands within the park that are listed as recommended wilderness under the National Wilderness Preservation System," said David Vela, superintendent of Grand Teton National Park and John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. "We look forward to working with these outstanding concessioners for another contract term."

The NPS Intermountain Region solicited proposals for these business opportunities through a prospectus issued August 13, 2014. Bid proposals were accepted through October 30, 2014. The proposals were evaluated and selected under the provisions of the 1998 Concessions Management Improvement Act. The Act made a number of changes in how concession contracts are awarded with the intent of ensuring quality visitor services, protecting park resources, and enhancing the competitive contract process for NPS concession contracts.



Jeff
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Time-lapse Video of Inversion at the Grand Canyon

A rare ground inversion last Thursday filled the Grand Canyon from rim to rim with a sea of clouds.

Ground inversions at Grand Canyon are a sight to behold – clouds fill the canyon with sunny, blue skies above the rims. The topography of Grand Canyon enhances the effect of inversions, creating the dramatic views of a sea of fog and clouds seemingly dense enough to walk out on.

Ground inversions occur when cold air is trapped by a layer of warm air. On clear, cold nights ground temperatures cool rapidly. Air in contact with cold surfaces cools and sinks. At Grand Canyon cold, moist air drops into the canyon forming cascading “waterfalls” of clouds pouring down the rim filling the canyon. Warm air above the rim holds the clouds in place until enough solar radiation is received to warm the surface of the rocks, heating the cold, dense clouds in the canyon and causing them to rise.

Visitors at Grand Canyon during an inversion are challenged to be patient. Waiting out the warming process is well worth the effort; when the clouds start to lift the currents of air swirl and turn on themselves parting like curtains to reveal bursts of color and light, a breathtaking spectacle.

Below is a one minute time-lapse video from the Grand Canyon National Park showing what happened last Thursday:







Jeff
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Usher in the New Year with "First Day Hikes" at Montana State Parks

Montana State Parks invites the public to usher in the New Year with "First Day Hikes" at Montana State Parks on New Year's Day, January 1, 2015.

Start your New Year off on the right (or left) foot with a "First Day Hike" at your local state park. Explore history, view winter wildlife, enjoy fresh air and connect with nature at this fun, family-friendly event. "First Day Hikes" are a healthy way to rejuvenate with family and friends after the long holiday rush.

These free, guided hikes are easy to moderate in difficulty and range from 1 to 3.5 miles in distance. Hikers should dress for the winter weather, wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots appropriate to the conditions, and bring water and snacks.

"First Day Hikes" is an annual, nationwide special event co-sponsored by America's State Parks. Last year, the event saw record participation with over 800 hikes and 28,000 participants across all 50 states.

First Day Hikes originated over 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Massachusetts. The program was launched to promote both healthy lifestyles throughout the year and year round recreation at state parks. Last year marked the first time all 50 state park systems have joined together to sponsor First Day Hikes.

To find a Montana State Parks' First Day Hike near you, please click here.



Jeff
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Monday Marks Start Of Yellowstone's Winter Season

Yellowstone National Park will open to the public for motorized oversnow travel as scheduled on Monday morning, December 15th.

Recent warm weather and limited snowfall has resulted in very little snowpack on many of the park’s interior roads. Until appreciable snowfall is received and conditions on the park’s packed, groomed roads improve:

- Visitors will be able to take commercially and non-commercially guided snowmobile trips or travel by commercial snowcoach between the park’s South Entrance and Old Faithful.

- Commercial snowcoaches with rubber tracks or large oversnow tires or other high clearance commercial wheeled vehicles will be permitted to transport visitors between West Yellowstone and Old Faithful.

- Commercial snowcoaches with rubber tracks or large oversnow tires will be permitted to offer visitor travel on road segments linking Mammoth Hot Springs, Norris, Madison, Canyon, and the northern end of Hayden Valley.

The road from the northern end of Hayden Valley through Fishing Bridge Junction to West Thumb is not currently suitable for any type of guided visitor travel. Travel through the park’s East Entrance over Sylvan Pass to Fishing Bridge is scheduled to begin Sunday, December 22.

Park staff members will continue to closely monitor conditions and weather forecasts. Additional sections of the park will open to guided snowmobile and snowcoach travel as soon as enough new snow permits.

The road from the park’s North Entrance at Gardiner, Mont., through Mammoth Hot Springs and on to Cooke City, Mont., outside the park’s Northeast Entrance is open to automobile travel all year.

At Old Faithful, the Geyser Grill, the Bear Den Gift Shop, and the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center open for the season on December 15th. The Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins and the Obsidian Dining Room open on Thursday, December 18th.

The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, dining room, and gift shop will open for the season on Saturday, December 20th. The Yellowstone General Store, the medical clinic, campground, post office, 24-hour gasoline pumps, and the Visitor Center at Mammoth Hot Springs are open all year.

All communities around and on the way to Yellowstone are open year-round, with local businesses offering a wide range of winter recreation opportunities. Extensive information and assistance for planning a visit to Yellowstone is available on the park website.



Jeff
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$20,000 Matching Challenge to Fund High Priority 2015 Glacier Projects

Last month the Glacier National Park Conservancy announced an initial grant of $450,000 to be awarded to Glacier National Park for the 2015 season. This represents an increase of $100,000 over 2013 figures.

The National Park Service submitted a request for over 50 projects to the Conservancy for funding consideration, totaling $1.7 million. The Conservancy is now endeavoring to fund as many additional projects as possible between now and the end of the year to support high priority 2015 Glacier initiatives.

To help with the effort, the Windmill Foundation has stepped forward with a $20,000 matching challenge. All new donations to the Conservancy will be matched one to one up to $20,000, now through December 31, 2014.

“This represents a significant opportunity for our community to support projects and programs that are important for our families. Trail improvements, activities for children, and wildlife research are all possible with this matching challenge,” said Glacier National Park Conservancy President Mark Preiss.

In fact, just 400 people would need to donate $50 to help the Conservancy win the $20,000 matching challenge.

Since announcing the Glacier Champions campaign in the middle of November, the Conservancy has already brought in an additional $65,000, which will be directed to high priority projects that have not yet been funded, including popular visitor programs like Native America Speaks and project supplies for upcoming trail rehabilitation.

“In an era of flat public funding, private philanthropy provides for a margin of excellence beyond just the basics,” said Glacier Superintendent Jeff Mow. “Through Glacier Conservancy investment, the park is able to accomplish projects and launch new initiatives that benefit our visitors and park natural and cultural resources that would not otherwise be possible.”

Projects that still need funding include significant trail improvements to Avalanche Lakeshore and Trail Of The Cedars on the west side of the park, and upgrades to Iceberg Lake Trail and the trail system around St. Mary Lake on the east side. Each trail receives high visitation, and rehabilitation is necessary to make hiking experiences exceptional, and to restore areas that become damaged by increased foot traffic.

Other initiatives that still require support include an ambitious Crown of the Continent Wildlife study that would stretch beyond Glacier into neighboring states and across the border to Canada. Also requested are studies on Glacier’s wolf, chipmunk, and mountain goat populations.

For a full list of projects, and to donate, please click here.



Jeff
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Trails Forever Funding Needs in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park has recently submitted an ambitious $1.7 million funding request to the Glacier National Park Conservancy for 2015. This includes more than 50 project proposals in areas such research, education, and preservation. The Conservancy has already awarded an initial grant of $450,000 to the park for the upcoming season.

In response to this additional funding request, the Glacier National Park Conservancy has launched a seven week Glacier Champions campaign to raise additional funds for 2015 projects that have not yet been funded.

Projects that still need funding include significant trail improvements to Avalanche Lakeshore, Trail of the Cedars, and the Iceberg Lake Trail, as well as the trail system around St. Mary Lake on the east side. Each trail receives high visitation, and rehabilitation is necessary to make hiking experiences exceptional, and to restore areas that become damaged by increased foot traffic. The following is a quick run-down on the hiking related improvement projects for 2015:

Rehabilitating The First Mile Of The Highline Trail - Work would include replacing hundreds of feet of worn cable and anchors that make up the safety line, to reworking switchbacks and widening narrow and difficult to hike areas near Rimrock. This project is currently fully funded for an estimated cost of $20,000.

Rerouting Iceberg Lake Trail - Approximately 1/8th of a mile up the trail is a steep section that is eroding into a gully. This project would build two switchbacks to decrease the trail grade and rehabilitate some trail segments by installing log checks. The new trail would be less steep, easier to maintain on a yearly basis, and elevate the hiking experience for thousands of visitors each summer. Funding needed = $12,000

Improve St. Mary Lake Trail Access - Portions of the trail to the St. Mary boat dock flood in the early summer, creating access challenges to St. Mary, Virginia, and Baring Falls. This project would repair 50 feet of trail down to St. Mary Lake, reconstructing a rock wall and elevating the trail above the high water line. The result would be a well-maintained trail to a popular location, accessible even during the high water periods in the spring. Funding needed = $6,000

Reconstruct Trail Of The Cedars - This project would reconstruct the trail surface (along the paved segment of the trail), laying down a “green” resin pavement, and would showcase sustainability and accessibility in our national parks. Funding needed = $30,000

Improve Avalanche Lake Shoreline Access - Access to the lake is currently not well defined in places, leading visitors to group in certain spots, or create their own trails to move further along the lake. This project would support walkways and other gravel surfaces along some portions of the trail, would define trail access along the lake, would replace the broken wooden walkway and handrails leading down to the lakeshore, and would rebuild benches from the head to the foot of the lake to allow hikers to spread out and find less congested spots to enjoy their visit. Funding needed = $24,000

Build A Raised Walkway To Two Medicine Pray Shelter And Boat Dock - In the early summer, the entire area at the head of Two Medicine Lake floods. This project would construct a 200 foot raised walkway to the Two Medicine Pray Shelter and Boat Dock. The raised walkway would allow visitors to travel to the boat dock and pray shelter, over the flooded area, and back to dry trail. It would also facilitate hikes to other locations up valley including Twin Falls and Dawson Pass. Funding needed = $15,000

Trail Use Study For All Trails Outside Of The Going-to-the-Sun Road Corridor - The project would purchase trail counter and camera equipment to be placed in some or all of the following areas: North Fork, Many Glacier, Goat Haunt, Middle Fork, Two Medicine and Belly River. The study would analyze trail use over a two-year period, calibrating and refining data based on trail counter results. A basic equipment purchase, even without additional support to analyze the data would allow the park to immediately begin collecting some preliminary data, even if the whole project wasn’t entirely funded in 2015.

Trail use data allows the park to chart a sustainable path forward and make informed decisions about how best to direct visitors to the best places to visit, while preserving Glacier’s wild places. Funding needed = $14,000 - $64,000

For a full list of projects, and to donate, please click here.



Jeff
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Glacier Conservancy Announces 2015 Glacier Champions Campaign

The Glacier National Park Conservancy has announced that it will give an initial $450,000 in grant support to Glacier National Park, beginning January 1, 2015. The funds were raised through a series of community and national engagements in 2014, including One Day for Glacier and Backpacker’s Ball.

“This represents an initial grant to the park of nearly $100,000 more than last year,” said Glacier Conservancy president Mark Preiss. “Our community has stepped forward in a significant way, placing Glacier at the center of our philanthropic giving and our way of life.”

The funds will be applied to a suite of projects from Native America Speaks to rehabilitating the Highline Trail to developing an improved native plant nursery facility to welcome school children and volunteers.

The park submitted a $1.7 million funding request to the Conservancy for 2015, highlighting ambitious project proposals in research, education, and preservation.

In response to this funding request, Glacier National Park Conservancy is kicking off a seven week Glacier Champions campaign to raise additional funds for 2015 projects that have not yet been funded.

This campaign will endeavor to support initiatives like a ground breaking research project to study wildlife connectivity across the Crown of the Continent, looking at Glacier’s role within this ecosystem and how animals use wild places across Montana, neighboring states, and up into Canada. Other projects include improvements to the popular Trail of the Cedars, launching an expanded GIS Field Study program with area high schools, and next fall’s education programming.

Visitors to Glacier next summer will feel Glacier National Park Conservancy donations in nearly every aspect of their visit.

When they arrive at the entrance station, they will be given a free park newsletter, made possible solely by Conservancy donors. Whether arriving at the west entrance and heading to the newly renovated Apgar Visitor Center, a Conservancy supported project, or the east entrance at St. Mary to enjoy an updated amphitheater in the campground area, donor dollars will be hard at work making the visitor experience exceptional.

School children will arrive on Conservancy grant funded buses, and will be greeted by National Park Service education rangers and interns funded by the Conservancy. Visitors to campgrounds and picnic areas will enjoy additional food storage boxes to help keep wildlife wild, and out of eating areas. Native America Speaks will continue in 2015, its 31st year, financially supported entirely by Conservancy donors.

Behind the scenes, scientists and citizen science volunteers will be busily monitoring mountain goats, pika, and loons in order to ensure that ecosystems remain healthy for the years to come. Grizzly bears will be studied in greater detail, including advanced DNA analysis tied to movement patterns. Up in the North Fork region of the park, a new fish barrier will be constructed at Akokala Lake to preserve native bull trout and keep out invasive species. Intrepid park visitors who make the journey to Belly River Ranger Station will notice that significant improvements made to that historic structure to preserve it for future generations.

The Glacier Champions campaign will run through December 31, 2014. “We invite everyone to give,” said Preiss. “Last year, over 65% of our donors gave under $100. These are folks who don’t have thousands to donate financially, but want to express their love of the park in a way that makes sense for them.” This year, those that want to be a Glacier Champion by participating in this campaign can choose to direct their gift to the program they find most compelling. For a full list of projects, and to donate, please click here.



Jeff
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Winter Season Activities & Operations Get Underway in Grand Tetons

The winter season officially begins Monday, December 15 in Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway (JDR Parkway). New this winter in the JDR Parkway is the availability of overnight lodging, dining, and saloon. These services will be provided by Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch from December 18 through March 2, 2015. In addition, the Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center will be closed through March 1, 2015. In the absence of a winter visitor center, park staff will be available to answer questions and provide park information by phone at 307.739.3399, Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

An alternative for winter visitor information about the greater Jackson Hole area—including Grand Teton and the JDR Parkway—is the Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center on North Cache Street in Jackson, Wyoming. This interagency visitor center is open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and offers educational and interactive displays that highlight the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and its many features. Wintering elk can be observed on the nearby National Elk Refuge from a wildlife observation deck equipped with spotting scopes. Click here for more information.

Ranger-led snowshoe hikes begin Saturday, December 2 7 from Taggart Lake trailhead on the Teton Park Road, three miles north of the park's Moose HQ campus. The snowshoe tours take place at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday each week. The two-hour guided walks offer an opportunity to learn about snow science and winter ecology. Previous experience is not necessary, and snowshoes are available for a rental fee of $5 for adults and $2 for children, 8 years or older. Reservations are required and can be made at 307.739.3399.

A Single Day Pass is available to winter visitors at the Moose, Moran and Granite Canyon entrance stations. This winter-season permit allows a one-day entry into Grand Teton at a cost of $5 per vehicle. The single day pass is valid only in Grand Teton and cannot be used for entry into Yellowstone. Winter visitors may choose to purchase one of the following other options for entry:

$25 Seven-day Pass valid for single vehicle entry into Grand Teton and Yellowstone
$50 Grand Teton/Yellowstone Annual Pass valid for one year entry into both parks
$80 Interagency Annual Pass valid for one year entry to all federal land management fee areas

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities. Most winter trails are skier tracked, but not groomed. The Teton Park Road becomes a backcountry trail in winter and is open to non-mechanized use only. In past winters, grooming operations on the Teton Park Road have been intermittent due to budget and personnel limitations. During winter 2015, however, this winter trail will be machine groomed from Taggart Lake parking area to Signal Mountain for cross-country and skate skiing twice a week thanks to generous support from the Grand Teton National Park Foundation. Grooming will take place each Friday, and whenever weather and staffing allows on Mondays. For trail condition updates, phone 307.739.3682. Important reminder: Snowshoers should walk adjacent to the groomed ski trail, as snowshoe treads ruin the grooved track set for skier use.

Skiers and snowshoers are not restricted to established trails. However for protection of wildlife, park visitors are required to observe the following public closures during winter:

Closed December 1 to April 1—Static Peak, Prospectors Mountain and Mount Hunt (see the park's cross-country ski brochure for area descriptions).

Closed December 15 to April 1— Snake River floodplain from Moran to Menor's Ferry near Moose, Buffalo Fork River floodplain within the park, Kelly Hill and Uhl Hill.

To obtain maps and closure locations, click here.

Backcountry users and mountaineers planning to stay overnight in the park must get a camping permit before their trip. Permits are not required for day users. Winter camping permits can be obtained in person at the front desk of the park's HQ building in Moose Monday—Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. During weekends and holidays, persons wishing to get a permit must call 307.739.3301. A general permit info line (307.739.3309) will be staffed Monday—Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This line will not be staffed on weekends or holidays, and only voice messages will be accepted.

To obtain weather forecasts and backcountry avalanche hazard information, click here, or phone the avalanche hotline at 307.733.2664.

Leashed pets are allowed on the park's plowed roads and turnouts, the unplowed Moose-Wilson Road, and the Grassy Lake Road. Pets are not allowed in the backcountry, which includes all other park areas beyond the plowed roadways.The unplowed Teton Park Road (TPR) is open to visitors who wish to walk, snowshoe or ski with their leashed pet. Dogs are restricted to the TPR, and must be restrained at all times on a leash no longer than 6-feet in length. Dogs must also be leashed while in the parking areas at Taggart Lake or Signal Mountain. Please keep dogs off the groomed ski tracks as a courtesy to other trail users.

Dog sleds are not allowed on the Teton Park Road or on Grassy Lake Road in the JDR Parkway.

Snowmobilers may use the frozen surface of Jackson Lake for the purposes of ice fishing only. A Wyoming State fishing license and appropriate fishing gear must be in possession. On Jackson Lake, snowmobiles must meet National Park Service requirements for Best Available Technology (BAT). Before operating a snowmobile, review approved BAT machines here.

Snowmobiles may also use the Grassy Lake Road in the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. The BAT machine requirement does not apply to snowmobile access on Grassy Lake Road between Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch and the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. For more information on snowmobiling, click here. New this year, Flagg Ranch Company will have a limited number of snowmobiles to rent for use on the Grassy Lake Road.

For complete information about winter activities in Grand Teton National Park or the JDR Parkway click here. Visitors can also obtain information on the park's website or through the information line at 307.739.3399, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
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Trail Work in Grand Teton: Youth Conservation Program 2014

Work on the Jenny Lake trail system wasn't the only trail project in the Grand Tetons this past summer. The Youth Conservation Program also helped out with several important trail projects as well.

During the Foundation’s ten-week Youth Conservation Program, students are challenged to work as a team, develop leadership skills, and see the results of their own conservation efforts during a summer on the trails of Grand Teton National Park. Moreover, they are offered a unique opportunity to experience firsthand what it’s like to work for a national park. Here's a video recap of the 2014 season to see crew members and staff recount their experiences:



For more information on the Grand Teton National Park Foundation, please click here.



Jeff
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AT&T Supports Jenny Lake Renewal Project through Technology-Focused Grant

The Grand Teton National Park Foundation has announced that AT&T has recently awarded them with a $250,000 contribution toward Inspiring Journeys: A Campaign for Jenny Lake, a comprehensive restoration of the park’s most popular destination, in honor of the National Park Service centennial in 2016. The contribution will be used to create technological tools that will advance traditional interpretive techniques in the soon-to-be renovated plaza at South Jenny Lake. This technology will enrich the visitor experience by greatly expanding interpretive offerings.

The Foundation’s Inspiring Journeys campaign is focused on creating a cohesive, durable, and timeless complex of trails and visitor facilities at one of Grand Teton’s most visited destinations. As part of the campaign, the Foundation will expand offerings in the current visitor plaza to include a comprehensive interpretive component. Through AT&T’s support, the Foundation will design and develop a new digital guide as an integrated package of digital and wireless resources available to visitors. While the idea is in a conceptual phase now, the Foundation envisions a suite of apps and interactive digital resources such as flora/fauna guides and walking tours that make use of augmented reality.

“We’re excited by the introduction of technology to the project,” says Leslie Mattson, president of Grand Teton National Park Foundation. “This digital guide will greatly enhance the visitor experience by delivering a wealth of educational and interactive material to the people who visit Jenny Lake.” By sharing technology-focused educational content at the interpretive plaza, the park will augment traditional waysides and gain richer, more complete interpretive information, providing a well-rounded experience for everyone including those with limited time or ability.

The Foundation and the park see this project as an opportunity to use technology to advance visitor experiences and rethink traditional interpretive techniques widely used by Grand Teton and other national parks. Currently, there is very little information specific to Jenny Lake on-site beyond a few maps and details ranger share verbally. Expanding educational content will transform a visitor’s time at Jenny Lake into an informative and enjoyable one. The guide will deliver a large volume of content and interactivity that will feel modern, relevant, and appealing to a younger audience.

With one million visitors exploring the Jenny Lake area each year, the Foundation believes technology is the key to reaching greater numbers of people with quality content and providing a wide variety of mechanisms for learning. AT&T’s support is a critical piece to this puzzle and the Foundation looks forward to collaborating with the organization to make these ideas a reality.

Inspiring Journeys: A Campaign for Jenny Lake is a $16.4 million public-private collaboration that will transform Jenny Lake’s trails, bridges, key destinations, and visitor complex. The much needed upgrades will improve the experience of hikers as they explore Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point, Cascade Canyon, as well as the loop trail around Jenny Lake. Additionally, the project will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service and create an inviting trail system and captivating experience for the 21st century visitor.

For more information on the project, please visit the Grand Teton National Park Foundation website.



Jeff
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Improvised Explosive Device Found In Redwood National and State Parks

A Redwood National and State Parks maintenance employee unknowingly collected an improvised explosive device (IED) at an illegal dump site on state park lands on the morning of Monday, December 1st, according to the NPS Morning Report.

The device was transported to the park’s Northern Operations Center, where it was quickly identified as an IED. Rangers were notified, responded and immediately evacuated employees from the facility. The entire operations center, surrounding area, and entrance road were also secured.

Rangers then coordinated with personnel from the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, Humboldt County Bomb Squad, Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office, NPS Fire, Crescent City Fire and Del Norte Ambulance to aid in scene containment and ensure safety. The Humboldt County Bomb Squad employed a mobile robot to render the device safe.

Due to the remote location of the operations center, there was no direct threat to public safety and the area was reopened for normal operations by 6 p.m. Rangers are working with ATF agents and the incident is under active investigation.

This report comes just one month after an improvised explosive device was found near a trail in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area in Georgia. An FBI investigation continues into that incident as well.



Jeff
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Winter Storm Causes Damage in Glacier National Park

A winter storm with very strong winds and large amounts of snow moved across Glacier National Park late Friday night. Park crews are assessing the impacts and damage from the storm.

Park access is limited at this time due to down trees and snow fall. The Apgar Visitor Center was closed through the weekend, and the Going-to-the-Sun Road is closed at the foot of Lake McDonald.

Visitor access is very limited, and visitors are encouraged to postpone their visit to the park, specifically through the West Glacier entrance, until access can be restored, and safety concerns are addressed.

Numerous trees fell on approximately 20 structures in the park housing area near park headquarters on the west side of the park. Six residence structures sustained structural damage, and one park employee family has been displaced from their home. A government vehicle was severely damaged from tree fall as well. No injuries have been reported.

The full extent of the impacts from the winter storm are unknown at this time. Park crews are prioritizing their response as there is damage due to tree fall, inaccessible roads due to snow, blowing snow and down trees, electrical power outages, and continued winter weather conditions.

Snow accumulation on the east side of the park is believed to be approximately two feet at St. Mary, and approximately 18-20 inches at East Glacier. Snow accumulations are high and blowing snow conditions are reported in the North Fork and Many Glacier areas as well.



Jeff
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The Montana Experience: The Polebridge Mercantile

Nestled in a remote mountain valley at the foot of Glacier National Park, the historic Polebridge Mercantile dutifully endures as one of the last outposts of its kind in the American West. The Mercantile, a short film by Brian Bolster, steps into the working lives of Flannery Coats and Stuart Reiswig, the young couple whose search for the ideal marriage location yielded them the most unforeseen and rewarding challenges of their lives - proprietorship and preservation of a century-old, unchanged business enterprise in a modern and ever-changing world.

Although most park visitors never make it up to Polebridge, this film will give them a good idea of what they're missing when they visit the Glacier area. Boy, those pastries sure look awesome!



Maybe now Polebridge will be on your itinerary for next year! If you do plan to visit Glacier next summer, now's a good time to begin your planning. In addition to detailed hiking trail information for Glacier National Park, our website also offers a wide variety of accommodation listings and other things to do to help with all your vacation planning.






Jeff
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Yellowstone Extends Comment Period On Proposed Fee Changes

Yellowstone National Park is extending the length of time the public can comment on a proposal to increase the park’s entrance fees and institute a backcountry overnight permit fee.

In response to public requests, the park will also open up the opportunity for interested individuals to submit comments online.

Yellowstone is proposing several changes to park entrance fees, which have remained the same since 2006. The park is proposing to offer a 3-day Yellowstone only pass for $30. A 7-day pass good for both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks would be available for $50. An annual pass to Yellowstone only will be $60.

Additionally, the park is proposing to institute a fee for overnight backcountry permits to help recover costs associated with operating the park’s backcountry program.

The park recently held public open houses in Cody, Jackson, and Bozeman help individuals learn more about the proposed fee changes.

The public comment period has now been extended to midnight MST on December 20, 2014.

More information on the fee proposals and an electronic form to submit comments on the proposal are available on the National Park Service’s Planning, Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) website.

Comments may also be hand-delivered during normal business hours to the mailroom in the park’s Administration Building in Mammoth Hot Springs, Wyoming, or mailed to: Management Assistant Office, Attn: Entrance Fee Proposal, P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, WY, 82190.

Comments will not be accepted by fax, e-mail, or in any other way than those specified above.






Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
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Video of the Day: the Alaska Basin Trail

If you ever get the chance you should jump at the opportunity to hike the Alaska Basin Trail. The trail takes hikers up to the Alaska Basin in the Jedediah Smith Wilderness Area, located just west of Grand Teton National Park. Below is a video, published by Kenneth Vanderstoep a few years ago, that highlights the breathtaking views, wildflowers and meadows you'll see on this epic hike. The song playing during the video is "Consider the Lilies" by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

For more information on this hike, please click here to visit our new hiking website for the Grand Tetons. Enjoy:





Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
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Inspiring Journeys: Improving Grand Teton’s Most Visited Destination (Part 3)

The Spring 1939 issue of Grand Teton Nature Notes reported that “By far the most popular trail in the park is the lower portion of the Cascade Canyon Trail which leaves Jenny Lake and climbs above Hidden Falls.” More than 75 years later that statement still holds true. As a result of overuse through the years the park, in conjunction with the Grand Teton National Park Foundation, launched a multi-year project in the spring of 2014 to improve the area surrounding Jenny Lake.

Inspiring Journeys: A Campaign for Jenny Lake is a $16.4 million public-private collaboration that will transform Jenny Lake’s trails, bridges, key destinations, and visitor complex. The much needed upgrades will improve the experience of hikers heading to Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point, Cascade Canyon, as well as the loop trail around Jenny Lake. Additionally, the project will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service and create an inviting trail system and captivating experience for the 21st century visitor.

This summer, Grand Teton trail crews accomplished major improvements on the trails around North Cascade Creek, including the horse trail. Below is the final part in a series of short videos that helps to explain the process of this major project:



Work on the backcountry trail system from the west shore of Jenny Lake to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point will continue during the summer of 2015. For more information on the project you can visit the Grand Teton National Park Foundation website.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
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Glacier Park Seeks Comments on Proposed Fee Increases

Glacier National Park is requesting public comment on a proposal to increase the park’s entrance fees for the first time in nine years, implement a motorized boat launch fee, and increase the camping fee at the Many Glacier Campground.

The proposal includes increasing the summer vehicle 7-day entrance fee from $25 to $30, with the winter fee changing from $15 to $20. The individual hiker/biker summer 7-day entrance fee would change from $12 to $15, and the winter fee would remain at $10. The 7-day entrance fee for a motorcycle would increase from $12 per person to $25 per motorcycle in the summer and from $10 per person to $15 per motorcycle in the winter. Summer season fees are charged from May 1-October 31, and winter fees are charged November 1-April 30 of each year.

The annual park pass would change from $35 to $60. This pass allows for unlimited access to the park for one year from first time of use.

The proposed fees are consistent with other larger national parks.

If approved, all changes in entrance fees at Glacier National Park would be implemented in May, 2015. The last time park entrance fees at Glacier National Park were increased was in 2006. Prior to that, the summer vehicle fee was $20 and the annual park pass was $30.

The proposal does not affect other passes with the America the Beautiful- The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Program, including the $80 interagency and $10 senior passes, and the free access or military passes.

A new boat launch fee is being proposed that will support managing the boat launch facilities in the park. The fee would be for all motorized boats that access park waters. The proposed fee is $10 for a 7-day permit or $40 for an annual permit. Revenue would help with boater education, monitoring, and improvements to boat launch facilities. If approved, it is anticipated this fee would be implemented in May, 2015. Boat inspections for aquatic invasive species (AIS) would still be required.

The park proposal also includes increasing the camping fee at the Many Glacier Campground from $20 to $23, and utilizing the federal reservation system for approximately half of the camp sites. The remaining sites not included on the reservation system would be first-come first-serve. This fee change would be consistent with the other reservation campgrounds in the park, Fish Creek and St. Mary Campgrounds. If approved, this fee and the reservation system would begin summer of 2016.

Another fee change would be for group campsites in the park. The proposed fee is $65 per group reservation site and $60 for first-come first-serve group sites. The current fee structure is $53 per site for the first nine individuals and $5 for each additional person for a reserved site, and $50 for a first-come first-serve group site. Group camping sites are located at St. Mary, Apgar, Many Glacier and Two Medicine. Some are available by reservation and some are first-come first-serve. If approved the proposed fee change would begin May, 2015.

The Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (FLREA) is the legislation that allows the park to collect entrance and camping fees, and retain 80 percent of the collected revenue. The remaining 20 percent is distributed throughout the National Park System. Basic park operations are funded by direct appropriations from Congress.

It is anticipated that the proposed fee changes could potentially generate approximately an additional $500,000 annually for Glacier National Park, depending on the number and type of entrance passes and camping permits sold. The funds generated by fees would be used for projects that enhance visitor services and facilities, including interpretive programs at campgrounds, the backcountry campsite reservation program, repair and restoration of trails, restoration of wildlife habitat, improvement and replacement of restroom facilities, preservation and maintenance of roads, and shuttle bus operation and maintenance.

Glacier National Park is an economic driver in the state of Montana and surrounding region. A National Park Service report shows that approximately 2.2 million visitors to Glacier National Park in 2013 spent $179 million in communities near the park supporting 2,824 jobs in the local area.

Public feedback on the proposed fee changes should be submitted to the park by December 19, 2014. Comments can be emailed or written comments may be mailed to Superintendent, Glacier National Park, Attn: Fee Proposal, P.O. Box 128, West Glacier, Montana 59936. Following receipt and analysis of public feedback, a decision will be made on fee changes and timing of implementation. For more information, contact the park at 406-888-7800.



Jeff
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Yellowstone Seeks Comments on the Mist Creek Pass Trail Project

Yellowstone National Park is soliciting comments on a proposed project to complete routine trail work on portions of the Mist Creek Pass Trail. The project will focus on the area around Mist Creek Meadows in the Lamar River drainage.

The main intent of the project will be to harden sections of trail that are regularly wet and boggy by adding rock to the trail subsurface at strategic locations. Work will also focus on routine but essential erosion control. The project will be completed by National Park Service staff in partnership with the Montana Conservation Corps, and will be funded through the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources Recreational Trails Program.

Comments may be hand-delivered during normal business hours to the mailroom in the park’s Administration Building in Mammoth Hot Springs, Wyoming, or mailed to: Bill Hopkins, Backcountry Trails Office, P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, 82190, or emailed.

Comments will not be accepted by fax or in any other way than those specified above. All comments must be received by midnight MST on Friday, November 28, 2014.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
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Inspiring Journeys: Improving Grand Teton’s Most Visited Destination (Part 2)

The Spring 1939 issue of Grand Teton Nature Notes reported that “By far the most popular trail in the park is the lower portion of the Cascade Canyon Trail which leaves Jenny Lake and climbs above Hidden Falls.” More than 75 years later that statement still holds true. As a result of overuse through the years the park, in conjunction with the Grand Teton National Park Foundation, launched a multi-year project in the spring of 2014 to improve the area surrounding Jenny Lake.

Inspiring Journeys: A Campaign for Jenny Lake is a $16.4 million public-private collaboration that will transform Jenny Lake’s trails, bridges, key destinations, and visitor complex. The much needed upgrades will improve the experience of hikers heading to Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point, Cascade Canyon, as well as the loop trail around Jenny Lake. Additionally, the project will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service and create an inviting trail system and captivating experience for the 21st century visitor.

In May 2014, helicopters dropped 260 tons of material near the mouth of Cascade Canyon at Jenny Lake. Since then, Grand Teton trail crews have been hard at work restoring the area’s degraded trail system. Below is part 2 in a series of short videos that explain the process of this major project:



Work on the backcountry trail system from the west shore of Jenny Lake to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point will continue during the summer of 2015. For more information on the project you can visit the Grand Teton National Park Foundation website.



Jeff
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Nine Rivers: A Canadian Adventure

Nine rivers, four men and two canoes. This excellent film follows four adventurers on a month-long, one-thousand kilometre (621 miles) canoe journey through the Canadian shield. The group shares the hardships and splendor of the North on this journey to Hudson Bay.

This film is fairly long compared to most I post on this blog, but it's very well done, and takes you through an area of North America that most people will never see. Although this was a major expedition, it's something a common person could accomplish (as opposed to having to be a super-fit athlete). Actually, I would love to do something like this some day...

Hope you enjoy:


Nine Rivers from Matt Perpick on Vimeo.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Veterans Day is Fee-Free Day in Glacier

Entrance fees to Glacier National Park will be waived on Veterans Day, Tuesday, November 11, in honor of those that serve and have served in the United States Military.

Glacier National Park, as well as the other 400 sites of the National Park Service, offers a free annual pass to active duty military members and their dependents. The annual pass allows free entrance to national parks and other federal recreation sites.

Active duty members of the U.S. Military and their dependents can obtain their pass at Glacier National Park’s headquarters building or any staffed park entrance station. A current and valid military identification card must be presented to obtain the pass. More information is available here, or by calling the park at 406-888-7800.

Winter entrance fees to the park are in effect November 1 - April 30 each year. The park’s winter entrance fee is $15 per vehicle and is valid for seven days. The per-person winter entrance fee for a visitor traveling on foot or bicycle is $10 and is valid for seven days. An annual Glacier National Park pass for unlimited access to the park for one year is available for $35.

Other passes with America the Beautiful-The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Program are also available. United States citizens 62 years of age and older may purchase a lifetime pass for $10, and citizens with a permanent disability may obtain a free lifetime pass. An annual pass available for $80 allows free entrance to federally operated recreation sites across the county, including many National Park Service, US Forest Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Reclamation, and Bureau of Land Management sites.

Backcountry permits are required for any backcountry overnight visit in the park. Permits for the winter season are available by calling the park up to seven days in advance, or by visiting the park headquarters office, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. or the Apgar Visitor Center on weekends, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. For backcountry campers desiring to obtain their permit on the east side of the park, please call ahead to arrange a meeting place. Winter backcountry campers need to view the park’s two Winter Backcountry Camping Videos prior to arriving in the park. The videos are available on the park’s YouTube site.

Visitors planning to boat within the park are reminded that all motorized watercraft require inspection and a permit before launching within the park. During the winter, boaters are encouraged to contact the park prior to their visit and schedule an inspection by calling 406-888-7800, extension 6.

Winter camping is available at the Apgar Picnic Area and the St. Mary Campground. There is no charge for camping at these locations in the winter, and no services are provided.

The park headquarters office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. The Apgar Visitor Center is open weekends, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.



Jeff
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Have craft brewers jumped the shark?

I have a question for beer lovers and common sewers, I mean connoisseurs: Has the whole craft beer industry jumped the shark?

In recent years there's been a growing trend towards extreme levels of hops and flavors not normally associated with beer. Some of the flavors I've seen or heard about - that have gone way out on the limb - include chile peppers, avocados, coconut curry, oysters, pine needles and even smoked ham and bacon! Hey, I'm all for experimentation, but I think we've reached the point where brewmasters have become self-indulgent to a certain extent. To use a pop music analogy, it feels like the craft brewing industry is nearing the end of the disco era, or the "hair metal" band era of the late 80s.

To continue with the music analogy, I think we're approaching the point where we're going to have to take all those albums (funky beer recipes) up to Comiskey Park and burn them after a White Sox game to make my (our?) point. It's time to get back to the roots of great beers.

While sipping on a German pilsner last weekend I came to the realization that the Germans, English, Irish and the Belgian Monks perfected the art of beer making several centuries ago. The reason these traditional beer makers have survived all these years is because they have focused on flavor. Sadly, many American craft brewers seem to have abandoned this fundamental reason for drinking beer. I'm certainly not bashing all American craft brewers. There are many who are making some absolutely great beers, such as Anderson Valley's Boont Amber Ale and Brother David’s Double Abbey Style Ale, or Big Sky's Moose Drool, or Deschutes Brewery's Black Butte Porter, or Highland Brewing Company's Gaelic Ale, or Mt. Carmel Brewing Company's Amber Ale - to name just a few. Unfortunately, very few places sell these brews on tap, opting instead to sell the outrageous flavors of the month.

All I'm saying, is give taste a chance! Am I the only one going "against the grain"?



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
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Inspiring Journeys: Improving Grand Teton’s Most Visited Destination (Part 1)

The Spring 1939 issue of Grand Teton Nature Notes reported that “By far the most popular trail in the park is the lower portion of the Cascade Canyon Trail which leaves Jenny Lake and climbs above Hidden Falls.” More than 75 years later that statement still holds true. As a result of overuse through the years the park, in conjunction with the Grand Teton National Park Foundation, launched a multi-year project in the spring of 2014 to improve the area surrounding Jenny Lake.

Inspiring Journeys: A Campaign for Jenny Lake is a $16.4 million public-private collaboration that will transform Jenny Lake’s trails, bridges, key destinations, and visitor complex. The much needed upgrades will improve the experience of hikers heading to Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point, Cascade Canyon, as well as the loop trail around Jenny Lake. Additionally, the project will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service and create an inviting trail system and captivating experience for the 21st century visitor.

In late May, as Jenny Lake's shores began to see significant snow melt, park staff, project engineers, and a helicopter team descended on the area to kick off 2014's construction season. Below is part 1 in a series of short videos that helps to explain the process of this major project:



Work on the backcountry trail system from the west shore of Jenny Lake to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point will continue during the summer of 2015. For more information on the project you can visit the Grand Teton National Park Foundation website.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
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Yellowstone National Park Proposes Entrance and Backcountry Fee Restructuring

Yellowstone National Park is seeking public input on a proposal to increase the park’s entrance fees for the first time since 2006, and institute a backcountry overnight permit fee.

Under current legislation, 80 percent of the revenue from entrance fees is allowed to remain in the park and used on projects which benefit park visitors. In Yellowstone, revenue from entrance fees has allowed the park to spend approximately $4 million per year on a variety of projects including road repairs, campground upgrades, improving accessibility for people with disabilities, rehabilitation of park structures, and utility systems repairs.

Yellowstone is proposing several changes to park entrance fees.

Currently, visitors pay $25 for a 7-day pass for a single, non-commercial vehicle entry into both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, with the current cost of an annual two-park pass at $50.

The park is proposing to offer a 3-day Yellowstone only pass for $30. A 7-day pass good for both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks would be available for $50. An annual pass to Yellowstone only will be $60.

Those entering the park by motorcycle or snowmobile are currently charged $20 for a 7-day pass honored at both parks. The proposal is to offer a 3-day Yellowstone only pass valid for $25 and a 7-day pass for $40 honored at both parks.

Individuals who enter the park on foot, bicycle, skis, or as snowcoach passengers currently pay $12 for a 7-day pass. That would be increased to $15 for 1-3 days in Yellowstone, or $25 for 7 days at both parks.

The Interagency Pass rates will remain the same: Annual ($80), Senior ($10), Access and Military ($0).

These proposed changes would result in additional annual revenue of approximately $3 million dollars for Yellowstone National Park, which would be used to continue or enhance projects such as Yellowstone cutthroat trout restoration, maintenance for the park’s 7 campgrounds, preservation maintenance on park roads, improved restroom facilities, reconstruction and rehabilitation of trails including Tower Falls, and a new North Entrance Station facility.

Additionally, the park is proposing to institute a fee for overnight backcountry permits to help recover costs associated with operating the park’s backcountry program. In the past, Yellowstone has not charged an overnight backcountry permit fee, but a reservation fee has been charged since 1996.

The proposed backcountry camping permit fee would be $3 per person (age 9 and older) per night with a maximum party limit of $15 per night for backpackers. Stock groups would be charged $5 per person per night with no maximum fee limit. The current $25 fee for trips reserved more than 48 hours in advance would remain the same.

Users would be able to purchase an Annual Backcountry Pass for $25 which would exempt that individual from the per-person per-night fee.

Additional revenue from overnight backcountry permit fees would be used to help to sustain the current level of service that visitors expect and ensure that Yellowstone can continue to provide service at multiple locations throughout the park.

The current revenue stream from advance reservations covers 17% of the cost to operate all backcountry offices, while the proposed fee is expected to raise backcountry fee revenue to approximately 43% of the cost to operate backcountry offices.

The public is encouraged to attend one of the following public meetings to learn more about the proposed fee changes:

- Tuesday, November 11 in Cody, Wyo.: Holiday Inn at Buffalo Bill Village 6:30-8:00 pm

- Wednesday, November 12 in Jackson, Wyo.: The Lexington 6:30-8:00 pm

- Tuesday, November 18 in Bozeman, Mont.: Hilton Garden Inn 6:30-8:00 pm

Comments may also be hand-delivered during normal business hours to the mailroom in the park’s Administration Building in Mammoth Hot Springs, Wyoming, at one of the public scoping meetings, or mailed to: Management Assistant Office, Attn: Entrance Fee Proposal, P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, WY, 82190.

Comments will not be accepted by fax, e-mail, or in any other way than those specified above. All comments must be received by midnight MST on Friday, December 5th, 2014.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
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