The Huckleberry Hiker: June 2020

Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Glacier National Park rangers seek missing man

Glacier National Park just announced on their Twitter account that park rangers are currently seeking a missing man. Here's the info and photo:

Glacier National Park rangers, Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, and Two Bear Air continue to search for a Pocatello, Idaho man missing since Friday. George Calvin Adams’ 2006 silver Toyota RAV4 was discovered south of Polebridge in Glacier National Park on Monday.

Adams is described as a 77-year-old male with gray hair. Anyone with information is asked to call the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office at 406-758-5610.

Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Ramble On: A History of Hiking
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Monday, June 29, 2020

Woman gored after approaching bison in Yellowstone National Park

After a 72-year-old woman from California approached within 10 feet of a bison multiple times to take its photo, the animal gored her. The incident occurred on the evening of June 25, 2020, at the female’s campsite at Bridge Bay Campground.

Rangers provided immediate medical care to the woman who sustained multiple goring wounds. She was then flown via helicopter to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center.

“The series of events that led to the goring suggest the bison was threatened by being repeatedly approached to within 10 feet,” said Yellowstone’s Senior Bison Biologist Chris Geremia. “Bison are wild animals that respond to threats by displaying aggressive behaviors like pawing the ground, snorting, bobbing their head, bellowing, and raising their tail. If that doesn’t make the threat (in this instance it was a person) move away, a threatened bison may charge. To be safe around bison, stay at least 25 yards away, move away if they approach, and run away or find cover if they charge.”

This incident is under investigation. There is no additional information to share.

Wildlife in Yellowstone National Park are wild. When an animal is near a campsite, trail, boardwalk, parking lot, or in a developed area, give it space. Stay more than 25 yards (23 m) away from all large animals - bison, elk, bighorn sheep, deer, moose, and coyotes and at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves. If need be, turn around and go the other way to avoid interacting with a wild animal in close proximity.

Saturday, June 27, 2020

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service biologist seriously injured by grizzly bear in Centennial Valley

A biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) was attacked by a grizzly bear in the Centennial Valley Wednesday morning. The individual suffered serious bite wounds but is expected to recover fully.

The USFWS employee was working on a sage grouse monitoring project on Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge about a mile west of Elk Lake. The biologist heard a noise in the sagebrush and turned to see two grizzly bears in a close-encounter situation, approximately 80 to 100 yards away.

One bear stood up, and the other charged the biologist. The biologist deployed bear spray at the charging bear and throughout the attack until the attacking bear ran away with the other bear.

The biologist began leaving the site while reporting the incident to other USFWS staff, who came and helped the individual get medical attention. The biologist was transported to Rexburg, Idaho, for medical treatment and was released later Wednesday afternoon.

The biologist’s report indicates the bears may have been young siblings around three years old. Idaho Fish & Game assisted Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) in the early stages of the investigation, which is still ongoing.

Seven people have been injured this year by bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, including two recreationists in Montana. Grizzly bear populations continue to become denser and more widespread in Montana, increasing the likelihood that residents and recreationists will encounter them in new places. Being prepared for such encounters is more important than ever to keep people and property safe and to cultivate natural bear behavior.

Recreationists and people who work outdoors should always be prepared to handle a bear encounter. Most bear attacks on humans happen in surprise close encounters. Activities that are deliberately quiet or fast moving, such as hunting, mountain biking or trail running, put people at greater risk for surprising a bear. Learn what you can do to protect yourself and bears while hiking in bear country.

Friday, June 26, 2020

East side access into Glacier National Park will not open in 2020

Glacier National Park just announced on its Twitter account that access to the park from the east side will not open in 2020. Here's the information they posted in a series of Tweets:

Glacier National Park officials received word late in the afternoon on June 25 that the Blackfeet Tribal Business Council voted to keep the east side access points into Glacier National Park closed until the end of the 2020 visitor season.

We understand the Blackfeet Tribe’s concerns regarding COVID-19 and its potential impacts to the residents of the reservation and their culture.

We are in the process of determining what this means to park operations and what facilities on the east side will be available by accessing from the west entrance. The Park will be getting information out as soon as it is available regarding our next steps.

You can find the latest information on what's open in the park here.

Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Ramble On: A History of Hiking
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Visitor injured by a grizzly bear while hiking near Fairy Falls

On the morning of June 22, 2020, a woman, age 37, from Columbia, Missouri, sustained a minor injury from a female grizzly bear while hiking on the Fairy Falls Trail near Old Faithful.

The visitor was hiking alone when she encountered two grizzly bears at very close range. The female bear knocked the woman down, and she sustained a scratch on her thigh. When the visitor fell to the ground, she also received minor injuries to her face. The hiker attempted to use her bear spray.

She later declined medical attention.

Following the incident, the Fairy Falls Trail was cleared of hikers. The trail and surrounding area has been temporarily closed.

“From the injured person’s statements, this appears to be a typical case of a mother grizzly bear protecting her offspring following a close-range encounter,” said bear management biologist Kerry Gunther. “Because this bear was displaying natural protective behavior for its cub, no action will be taken against the bear. Several trails in the area will be closed to give the grizzly family group time to clear from the area.”

This is the first incident of a bear injuring a visitor in Yellowstone in 2020. The last time a bear injured a visitor in the park was in June 2019, when a black bear bit into an occupied tent and bruised a woman’s thigh.

Protect yourself and bears while you hike in bear country.

Tuesday, June 23, 2020

Biologists set to begin 2020 grizzly bear captures for research purposes in Yellowstone National Park; Public reminded to heed warning signs

As part of ongoing efforts required under the Endangered Species Act to monitor the population of grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, the U.S. Geological Survey, in conjunction with the National Park Service, is working to inform the public that pre-baiting and scientific capture operations are once again about to begin within Yellowstone National Park. Biologists with the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team (IGBST) will begin field captures on June 27 and continue through August 28. Capture operations can include a variety of activities, but all areas where work is being conducted will have primary access points marked with warning signs. It is critical that all members of the public heed these signs.

Monitoring of grizzly bear distribution and other activities are vital to ongoing recovery of grizzly bears in the Yellowstone Ecosystem. In order to attract bears, biologists use natural food sources such as fresh road-killed deer and elk. Potential capture sites are baited with these natural foods and if indications are that grizzly bears are in the area, culvert traps or foot snares will be used to capture the bears. Once captured, bears are handled in accordance with strict safety and animal care protocols developed by the IGBST.

Whenever bear capture activities are being conducted for scientific purposes, the area around the site will be posted with bright warning signs to inform the public of the activities occurring. These signs are posted along the major access points to the capture site. It is important that the public heed these signs and do not venture into an area that has been posted. For more information regarding grizzly bear capture efforts, call the IGBST hotline at 406-994-6675. Information about the grizzly bear research and monitoring is available from the IGBST website: https://www.usgs.gov/science/interagency-grizzly-bear-study-team

Also, know what to do if you see a bear on the trail.

Sunday, June 21, 2020

What you should know while recreating in mountain goat country

Mountain goats live in some of the most remote and precipitous terrain in North America. The challenge and beauty of these places also draw recreationists, who often encounter goats along the way. What people do in these encounters matters, not just for their own safety, but for the health and wildness of the goats.

Some goat-occupied places in Montana, such as the Bridger Range near Bozeman and the Flathead Range near Kalispell, are particularly busy destinations for recreationists year-round. Conflicts between humans and goats can lead to human and pet injuries, reduced goat health and dangerous goat behavior.

However and wherever you recreate in goat country, here’s what you can do to be safe and keep goats wild and healthy:

Keep your distance. Give goats plenty of room when you see them. Keeping dogs under control at all times is key. A nanny goat will protect her young if they feel threatened or crowded. If a goat is reacting to your or your dog’s presence, you’re too close or too loud.

Manage attractants. Goats are attracted to salt, so keep sweaty items like clothes and backpacks secured. If latrine facilities aren’t available, urinate away from trails and campgrounds. Never feed goats or other wildlife.

Yield to goats. Give goats the right of way whenever possible. If you are hiking downslope from goats, watch for falling rocks. Goats often travel at night, so keep your dog in your tent. If a goat approaches you, move away.

Responsible recreation is a critical component of human safety and wildlife health everywhere. Minimizing negative human impacts on the places and wildlife we enjoy will help ensure they are accessible and enjoyable in perpetuity.

You can read about the incident I had with a family of mountain goats several years ago, which occurred just a few weeks prior to a hiker being gored to death in Olympic National Park.

Friday, June 19, 2020

Camper bitten in possible bear incident near Big Sky

A woman was bitten by what investigators believe to be a bear while camping last week in Beehive Basin just northwest of Big Sky.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks was notified of the incident on Friday. According to the victim, she and another person were camping on private land near the Beehive Basin trailhead when they were awakened early Thursday morning by a large animal pushing or “falling” on their tent. The two campers kicked and yelled at the animal to scare it away, and it bit one of them on the leg from outside the tent, then left the campsite. The campers did not see the animal.

Fortunately, the victim’s injuries were relatively minor, and she sought prompt medical treatment.

FWP believes it was a bear that bit the woman, based on her account of the animal’s behavior and the nature of the bite wound. However, no bear tracks have been found near the trailhead to confirm whether it was a grizzly or a black bear, but the bite wound indicated it was from an adult-age bear.

Initial details of the incident indicate the bear’s behavior was likely investigative, not predatory, and that the bite was defensive. The victim reported that their food was stored securely in their vehicle, not in the tent, and that they were wearing clean clothes.

FWP will be monitoring the area closely with other agencies for potentially hazardous bear behavior. FWP has worked with the U.S. Forest Service to add signs warning other recreationists in the area of the recent bear activity. This incident is still under investigation.

FWP reminds recreationists to be cautious and prepared for a bear encounter when recreating in Montana.

Thursday, June 18, 2020

Bozeman pilot fined for landing helicopter in Bob Marshall Wilderness

A Bozeman man who landed a helicopter in the Bob Marshall Wilderness in May has paid the maximum $500 fine, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said today.

Samuel L. Schwerin, 48, of Bozeman, received the notice for the violation, a federal misdemeanor, after landing a helicopter on the South Fork of the Flathead River in the Bob Marshall Wilderness on May 16.

The U.S. Forest Service investigated the incident after receiving a report on May 19 by a person traveling on horseback and who saw a helicopter parked on a gravel bar on the South Fork of the Flathead River.

The Forest Service, in consultation with the U.S. Attorney's Office, issued Schwerin the violation notice, which was processed on June 12 through the U.S. Courts' Central Violations Bureau (CVB). The CVB handles violation notices issued and processes payments for infractions committed on federal property. The Code of Federal Regulations identifies penalties for this violation under 36 CFR section 261.1b. The maximum penalty is a $500 fine, six months in prison or both.

"Wilderness areas were created to be free of motorized activity, including helicopters. Montanans cherish places like the Bob Marshall not only for their spectacular mountains, rivers, meadows and wildlife but also for the quiet and solitude they provide. People who violate the wilderness regulations will be investigated and prosecuted," U.S. Attorney Alme said.

“We take concerns about the proper use of our national forests and wilderness areas very seriously,” said Flathead National Forest Supervisor Kurt Steele. “Many members of the public took the time to share their thoughts on the incident and their appreciation for the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. It is a world-renowned jewel that plays an important role in our landscape level ecosystem and our tourism economy.

"We appreciate the public reporting these types of incidents so our Forest Service law enforcement professionals and partners at the Department of Justice can investigate and appropriately prosecute them,” Steele said.

Grand Teton National Park Creates $796 Million in Local Economic Benefits

A recent National Park Service report shows that in 2019, 3.4 million park visitors spent an estimated $630 million in local gateway regions while visiting Grand Teton National Park. These expenditures supported a total of 8,640 jobs, $275 million in labor income, $463 million in value added, and $796 million in economic output in local gateway economies surrounding Grand Teton National Park.

“We recognize Grand Teton National Park's important role as an economic driver in the state of Wyoming,” said Acting Superintendent Gopaul Noojibail. “This is a special place and we greatly appreciate our local and state partners that help serve our visitors and protect the park’s iconic resources for future generations.”

The peer-reviewed visitor spending analysis was conducted by economists Catherine Cullinane Thomas of the U.S. Geological Survey and Lynne Koontz of the National Park Service. The report shows $21 billion of direct spending by more than 327 million park visitors in communities within 60 miles of a national park. This spending supported 340,500 jobs nationally; 278,000 of those jobs are found in these gateway communities. The cumulative benefit to the U.S. economy was $41.7 billion.

Nationally, lodging expenses account for the largest share of visitor spending, about $7.1 billion in 2019. The restaurant sector had the next greatest effects with $4.2 billion in economic output. Motor vehicle fuel expenditures were $2.16 billion with retail spending at $1.93 billion.

Visitor spending on lodging supported more than 58,000 jobs and more than 61,000 jobs in restaurants. Visitor spending in the recreation industries supported more than 28,000 jobs and spending in retail supported more than 20,000 jobs.

The report authors also produced an interactive tool that enables users to explore visitor spending, jobs, labor income, value added, and output effects by sector for national, state, and local economies. Users can also view year-by-year trend data. The interactive tool and report are available at the National Park Service Social Science Program webpage at https://www.nps.gov/subjects/socialscience/vse.htm.

There are several sites affiliated or managed by the National Park Service in Wyoming, including Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area; Devils Tower National Monument; Fort Laramie National Historic Site; Fossil Butte National Monument; Grand Teton National Park; John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway; and Yellowstone National Park. Visit www.nps.gov/Wyoming to learn more about national parks in Wyoming and how the National Park Service works with local communities to help preserve local history, conserve the environment, and provide outdoor recreation.

With more than 240 miles of trails meandering throughout the park, hiking is the absolute best way to see Grand Teton National Park. In addition to the hikes listed above, the park offers a wide variety of outstanding hikes that take-in the best scenery the Tetons have to offer. If you do plan to visit Grand Teton this year, please note that our hiking website also offers a wide variety of accommodation listings and other things to do to help with all your trip planning.

Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Ramble On: A History of Hiking
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Wednesday, June 17, 2020

Grand Teton National Park Foundation Transfers Property to Grand Teton National Park

The Moulton Ranch Cabins, the last privately-held inholding on the Mormon Row Historic District in Grand Teton National Park, has officially been transferred to the National Park Service from Grand Teton National Park Foundation.

The closing took place on April 1 under very unusual circumstances due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Foundation President Leslie Mattson signed the papers in her vehicle outside of the title company’s office.

Under Teton County, Wyoming, zoning regulations, a private purchaser could have redeveloped the inholding, building up to 10,000 square feet of new construction that may not have been compatible with the historic district, scenic viewshed, and conservation purposes of the surrounding park. Nine existing lodging units on the property will provide housing for seasonal park employees. The Foundation is pleased to help the park address a critical need while also preserving the integrity of the iconic Mormon Row Historic District.

“During this unprecedented time when our partners are challenged to house their essential workers, we are glad we can support Grand Teton by providing more space for their employees to live,” Mattson said.

The Foundation announced the plan to purchase the property in June 2018 and acquired the property the following November. It was listed for sale by the former owners, Hal and Iola Blake, who are descendants of TA Moulton, one of the original pioneers who homesteaded the area in the early twentieth century.

A generous philanthropist approached the Foundation in spring 2018 to support the purchase of the property, ensuring the inholding could become part of Grand Teton. The anonymous donor cares deeply for the park and its cultural resources, and was also concerned about its pressing need for seasonal workforce housing.

“We are thrilled to know that the property and all the structures that my grandparents created and loved will be preserved and put to good use,” Hal Blake said. “We are grateful to have the National Park Service provide stewardship over the Mormon Row Historic District and tell our family’s story.”

The Foundation worked with a private contractor to make improvements to the property during summer 2019, which allows the National Park Service to more easily maintain the cabins well into the future. Seasonal employees are being housed in the Moulton Ranch Cabins this summer.

Grand Teton National Park Acting Superintendent Gopaul Noojibail said, “The donation of the Moulton Ranch Cabins is a clear indication of the impact the park has on individuals, as well as, the impact an individual can have on the park. The support the park receives from the Grand Teton National Park Foundation is incredible, and we are very grateful for the donation of the Moulton Ranch Cabins.”

The Mormon Row Historic District is located in the Antelope Flats area near the southeast corner of the park. The first historic settlement period of Mormon Row was in 1895, with land claims in the area thriving beginning in 1908. Known as the town of Gros Ventre, Mormon Row featured over thirty homesteads, a church and a school. The district came under National Park Service management in 1950. The six remaining homesteads, including the recently acquired Moulton Ranch Cabins, are listed in the National Register of Historic Places as a significant vernacular cultural landscape, and serve as a testament to the difficulty and isolation associated with historic period settlement in Jackson Hole.

Tuesday, June 16, 2020

Grand Teton Continues to Phase in Visitor Access and Services

Grand Teton National Park is increasing recreational access and some visitor services following a phased approach and guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local public health authorities. The health and safety of park visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners continues to be priority.

Beginning Tuesday, June 16, some visitor centers will open, backcountry permits will be available and there will be additional take-out food services from park concessioners.

The Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center and the Colter Bay Visitor Center will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week, as will the Jenny Lake Ranger Station. There will be special guidelines implemented for visitor and employee safety:

* Employees will be wearing face coverings inside buildings when social distancing is not an option.

* Visitors are highly encouraged to wear face coverings as they enter a building and inside a building when social distancing is not an option.

* There will be indoor and outdoor signs and images to help visitors understand appropriate distances and recommended actions.

* Visitors are reminded to cover their cough with an elbow or tissue, wash hands regularly with soap for at least 20 seconds, avoid crowds, and stay home if sick.

* The park has increased staff to clean and disinfect high-use areas.

* Plexiglass panels have been installed in areas of high-visitor interaction such as entrance stations, visitor centers and permit desks.

* Visitor center exhibits and auditoriums will not be accessible.

* Additional strategies, such as limited parking, no-stopping zones and one-way travel, are being implemented in popular outdoor areas.

Backcountry permits will be available at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center, Colter Bay Visitor Center, and Jenny Lake Ranger Station as of Tuesday, June 16. Permits are available 24 hours in advance and are required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. Everyone is encouraged to practice social distancing while on trails.

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center, Flagg Ranch Information Station, and Jenny Lake Visitor Center will not be open for the 2020 summer season, although, park staff will be available to assist visitors with information in outdoor areas in most of these locations.

All concessioner-operated campgrounds within Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway are currently open. Signal Mountain Lodge, Colter Bay and Headwaters Lodge at Flagg Ranch have limited lodging and take-out food service. In addition, general merchandise will be available through park concessioners at Signal Mountain, Jenny Lake, Colter Bay and Headwaters Lodge at Flagg Ranch. Canoe and kayak rentals are available to the public at Colter Bay and Signal Mountain marinas, with rentals at Jenny Lake anticipated towards the end of June.

Patience is encouraged as the National Park Service works to provide safe facilities and services to the public during the COVID-19 pandemic. Grand Teton National Park will examine each facility function and service provided to ensure those operations comply with current public health guidance and will be regularly monitored. The park continues to work closely with the National Park Service Office of Public Health using CDC guidance to ensure public and workspaces are safe and clean for visitors, employees, partners, and volunteers. Operations and schedules of visitor facilities and services may be adjusted.

Details and updates on operations at Grand Teton National Park will continue to be posted on the park’s website at https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/be-tetonsafe-be-outside.htm

With more than 240 miles of trails meandering throughout the park, hiking is the absolute best way to see Grand Teton National Park. In addition to the hikes listed above, the park offers a wide variety of outstanding hikes that take-in the best scenery the Tetons have to offer. If you do plan to visit Grand Teton this year, please note that our hiking website also offers a wide variety of accommodation listings and other things to do to help with all your trip planning.

Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Ramble On: A History of Hiking
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Monday, June 15, 2020

National Park Service Visitor Spending Generates Economic Impact of More Than $41 Billion

U.S. Secretary of the Interior David L. Bernhardt today announced the annual economic benefit of national parks to the U.S. and local economies. In 2019, visitor spending in communities near national parks resulted in a $41.7 billion benefit to the nation’s economy and supported 340,500 jobs. Visitor spending increased by $800 million from 2018 to 2019 and the overall effect on the U.S economy grew by $1.6 billion. In the last five years, visitor spending has increased by $4.1 billion and the effect on the U.S. economy grew by $9.7 billion.

“We have been working to safely welcome the public back to their national parks and provide more service again,” said Secretary Bernhardt. “These treasured places provide respite and recreation for the American people, in addition to vital economic support to gateway communities across the country. The tremendous value of our national parks is undeniable as is the need to adequately maintain them, which is why President Trump has called on Congress to address the decades of deferred maintenance.”

According to the annual National Park Service report released today, 2019 National Park Visitor Spending Effects, more than 327 million visitors spent $21 billion in communities within 60 miles of a park in the National Park System. Of the 340,500 jobs supported by visitor spending, more than 278,000 jobs exist in communities adjacent to parks. The report includes statistics by park and by state on visitor spending and the number of jobs supported by visitor spending.

“Safely increasing access to national parks and other public lands supports individual and collective physical and mental wellness, said National Park Service Deputy Director David Vela, exercising the authority of the Director. “It also benefits park gateway communities where millions of visitors each year find a place to sleep and eat, hire outfitters and guides and make use of other local services that help drive a vibrant tourism and outdoor recreation industry.”

Lodging expenses account for the largest share of visitor spending totaling $7.1 billion in 2019. The restaurant sector had the next greatest effects with $4.2 billion in economic output. Motor vehicle fuel expenditures were $2.16 billion with retail spending at $1.93 billion.

There are National Park System sites in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Territories of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa and Guam. Visitation varies across the country, from Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona to Grand Portage National Monument in Minnesota.

Last year, Grand Canyon National Park attracted nearly 6 million visitors who spent more than $890 million, supporting 11,806 jobs and generating a $1.1 billion total economic output. Grand Portage National Monument recorded approximately 94,985 recreation visitors who spent an estimated $6,208,000. That spending supported 78 jobs and more than a $6 million total economic output.

An online interactive tool enables users to explore visitor spending, jobs, labor income, value added, and output effects by sector for national, state, and local economies. It also shows annual, trend data.

For additional state-by-state information about national parks and how the National Park Service is working with communities, go to http://www.nps.gov/[statename], for example: http://www.nps.gov/virginia.

Sunday, June 14, 2020

Dust Abatement on Moose-Wilson Road

The unpaved section of the Moose-Wilson Road in Grand Teton National Park will be temporarily closed for seasonal dust abatement beginning 4 a.m. Tuesday, June 16 and will reopen by 8 a.m. Thursday, June 18. This routine dust abatement application happens several times during the summer on the approximately one-mile of unpaved section of the seven-mile road.

During the dust abatement application June 16-18, motorists and bicyclists should plan to use an alternate route as this temporary closure will prevent making a ‘through trip’ on the Moose-Wilson Road between the Granite Canyon Entrance Station and the Teton Park Road at Moose, Wyoming.

For those wishing to reach the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve parking area or Death Canyon Trailhead, access will be possible by traveling south from the Teton Park Road Junction near the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center.

Electronic signs will be placed on Wyoming Highway 390 to alert park visitors and local residents of the scheduled road closure. For travelers heading south to Teton Village from the Moose area, signs will also be placed near the junction of the Teton Park Road.

The product used for dust abatement is a slurry of magnesium chloride, the same product that is used to treat dirt roads in and around Jackson Hole. This product coats the road surface, but it can also adhere to the undercarriage of vehicles. Motorists who drive the unpaved portion of the Moose-Wilson Road after it reopens on Thursday may want to rinse off their vehicles to eliminate any residue.

Roadwork schedules may change, or be delayed, due to weather conditions, equipment malfunction, or other extenuating circumstances.

There will also be temporary 20-minute delays along the Moose-Wilson Road near the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve from 11 a.m. -4 p.m. on Monday, June 15, as well as trail closures between the Preserve Center and Phelps Lake. The Lake Creek and Woodland, and Aspen Ridge Trails will be closed, as well as the Phelps Lake Loop south of Huckleberry Point and south of the junction with the Boulder Ridge Trail, between 7 a.m.-5-p.m. on Monday, June 15. The temporary delays and closures will be in effect for health and safety purposes as a helicopter transports supplies and materials for repairs of the Phelps Lake Restroom.

Saturday, June 13, 2020

Glacier National Park Continues Adaptive Operational Recovery

Glacier National Park continues their adaptive operational recovery as additional portions of the park become available this weekend and on Monday, June 15.

Below is a forecast of what to expect in the park this weekend and starting Monday, June 15. In addition, there are several changes to the backcountry permit process.

Continuing through the Weekend
The west entrance to the park will open by 8:00 am, as conditions permit, and close at 4:30 pm. After 4:30 pm additional entries will not be allowed, including hikers and bikers. Visitors already in the park are not required to leave by 4:30 and are free to exit after finishing their recreational activities. No overnight use of the park is permitted at this time and the campgrounds and lodges are currently closed.

Visitors will be able to access Apgar and Going-to-the-Sun Road as far as Lake McDonald Lodge. Restrooms will remain open after 4:30 pm. A few public bathrooms in the park will not be open this year due to the increased cleaning frequency required by COVID-19 mitigations. One of those is the Education Center facilities in Apgar. Those bathrooms are closed this year to allow the other facilities to be cleaned and disinfected more frequently.

Lake McDonald is currently the only waters open to boating (non-motorized only.) The Aquatic Inspection Station is open at Apgar from 9am-7pm. All watercraft must be cleaned thoroughly before coming to inspection station. Please review the park’s website regarding watercraft prior to arrival.

Visitors should come prepared and follow all CDC and local health guidance by practicing good hygiene and social distancing. Face coverings are recommended where social distancing is not possible. People who are sick should stay home and not visit the park. The CDC has provided specific guidance on visiting parks and recreational facilities.

What Changes in the Park this Weekend?

This weekend, hikers and bikers can go as far as they like on Going to the Sun Road past Lake McDonald Lodge at their own risk. Visitors are discouraged from going past the Loop due to falling rock and avalanche danger. Depending on avalanche concerns, closure may be instituted on a case-by-case basis. The Swan Mountain Apgar horseback rides will start on June 13.

What Changes on Monday, June 15?

* Starting Monday, June 15, the west entrance gate will no longer close at 4:30 pm.

* Camas Road will be open on June 15. The North Fork portion of the park will open and hiking trails, including trails to Bowman and Kintla Lake, will open for day use only. Campgrounds will remain closed and Bowman and Kintla Lakes remain closed at this time.

* Starting June 15, Going-to-the-Sun Road will open to Avalanche Creek and the campground will be available for day-use parking. Only the restroom at the shuttle stop will be available.

* On June 15, Village Inn Hotel and Lake McDonald Lodge open to overnight guests only. The Lodge lobby and restrooms will be closed to day-use visitors.

* Food service will be take-out only and orders can be placed on the lakeside exterior of the building. The bar and gift shop in the Lodge will be closed.

* Lake McDonald Campstore opens and restrooms in the old post office will be open to the public on June 15.

Backcountry Permits

* Backcountry permits will be available starting June 26. This is a correction to a previous news release that stated an incorrect date of June 21.

* There will be no undesignated camping permits or advance reservations for the 2020 summer season. All backcountry permits will be obtained using the first come, first served walk-in system.

* Starting June 26, permits can be purchased on the west side at Apgar Visitor Center from 8am-4pm. Tentatively starting by July 1, permits can be purchased on the east side at St. Mary Visitor Center from 8am- 4pm. These are the only locations where backcountry permits can be purchased for the 2020 season. Permits will not be obtainable at Many Glacier, Two Medicine, Polebridge, or Waterton this summer. Credit and debit cards will be the only form of payment accepted in 2020.

Masks or cloth face coverings are strongly encouraged to be worn while inside backcountry permit offices. Backcountry staff will be wearing them out of respect for public health. Physical distancing guidelines will be observed at all backcountry permit offices, which may result in longer wait times and/or lines outside the office buildings. A maximum of four people will be allowed in the backcountry office at any time. Any additional party members may join the group for a safety briefing outdoors after a permit is obtained.

Additional potential health risks must be assumed for overnight backcountry trips, ex. shared pit toilets and food prep areas in all campgrounds. Please consult the park website for further information on preparedness before embarking on a backcountry trip.

The Goat Haunt border crossing will be closed for the 2020 season. Continental Divide Trail hikers, please call 406-888-7859 for further information.

Friday, June 12, 2020

Temporary Delays on Moose-Wilson Road and Phelps Lake Trails

There will be temporary 20-minute delays along the Moose-Wilson Road near the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve from 11 a.m. -4 p.m. on Monday, June 15, as well as trail closures between the Preserve Center and Phelps Lake. The Lake Creek and Woodland, and Aspen Ridge Trails will be closed, as well as the Phelps Lake Loop south of Huckleberry Point and south of the junction with the Boulder Ridge Trail, between 7 a.m.-5-p.m. on Monday, June 15.

The temporary delays and closures will be in effect for health and safety purposes as a helicopter transports supplies and materials for repairs of the Phelps Lake Restroom. The restroom facility was damaged during the winter of 2018-2019 and closed last summer.

The repairs are in partnership with the support of Jackson Hole Preserve Incorporated. The public is encouraged to travel alternative routes and visit other trails on Monday. The repair work is weather contingent, and could be delayed to the following day, Tuesday, June 16.

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve is comprised of 1,106 acres on the south end of Phelps Lake and includes a 7,500-square foot interpretive center, parking lot and approximately eight miles of trails and three restroom facilities. Jackson Hole Preserve Incorporated is an active partner with the National Park Service and managed the donation of the Preserve from the estate of Laurance S. Rockefeller in 2007. The organization was established in 1927 as the Snake Land Company.

The interpretive center will remain closed for the 2020 season because of limited staff due to COVID-19. The parking area and restroom are anticipated to be accessible for the summer season after the transport of supplies and materials for repairs at the Phelps Lake Restroom.

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

As national parks reopen, our online trail guides are still here to help with all your hiking plans

With most national parks finally in the process of reopening, and with restrictions on travel slowly being lifted, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for your continuing support of our online hiking trail guides for the four national parks we cover:

HikinginGlacier.com

TetonHikingTrails.com

RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

HikingintheSmokys.com

If you do plan to visit any of these parks this year or anytime in the future, be sure to visit our websites to find the most comprehensive information on the best day hiking destinations in each of those parks. Our various trail directories and lists of top hikes will help you easily drill down to find the best hikes suited to your abilities and preferences.

In addition to our online trail guides, our websites also provide Accommodations and Things To Do listings to help with all your vacation planning. You can help support our websites by clicking and visiting our advertisers' websites, and using the services of these local businesses that have been hit hard by the shutdowns.

You can also support our websites by shopping from any of our affiliate links, including REI and Amazon.

Again, thank you very much!

Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Ramble On: A History of Hiking
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Monday, June 8, 2020

Waters Open Throughout Grand Teton

Lakes and rivers that provide access to private and commercial vessels for floating, boating and fishing throughout Grand Teton National Park are open for the season beginning June 5.

Local residents and visitors to Grand Teton National Park are reminded to do their part to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Those who recreate on park waters have a responsibility to drain, clean, and dry their vessel, as well as check fishing gear before launching in the park.

All boats should be inspected at the Moose or Moran Aquatic Invasive Species Station upon entry to the park. Recreationists transporting any watercraft, including non-motorized vessels such as canoes and kayaks, are required by law to stop every time they pass an open inspection station. Watercraft that are dirty or have standing water will require a more in-depth inspection and potentially decontamination. As in past years, boat inspectors are issuing visitors an inspection verification card upon completion of the inspection. Frequent visitors should carry this card with them to expedite the inspection process during future visits.

The prevention of invasive species from entering park waters is critical, and more effective than attempting to remove invasive species after they've been established. Boat inspection stations are located in Moose and Moran, 7:30 a.m. -4:30 p.m. daily during the busy summer boating season.

Boaters are reminded that both a park boat permit and a state of Wyoming aquatic invasive species decal are required before launching on any park waters. Park boat permits are available via the mail by calling 307-739-3309 or may be purchased at park visitor centers once they are open. State decals may be purchased at a variety of outlets in the local area.

Concession operated marinas at Signal Mountain, Colter Bay, and Leeks will open by 9 a.m. on Friday, June 5, as well as other boat launches in the park. Park concessioner Jenny Lake Boating will also begin operations on Friday.

The National Park Service and Grand Teton National Park Foundation are working in partnership on a multi-year project, Snake River Gateways, to transform three river access sites along the Snake River. Construction began at Pacific Creek Landing this spring and public access to this location will be unavailable through June 7.

All river users should be aware of the skills needed for navigating each section of river.  During the temporary closure at Pacific Creek Landing, anyone putting in on the Snake River at Jackson Lake Dam will need to travel to Deadmans Bar, which requires an advanced skill set. River users may want to consider an alternate section of river recreation during this time.  

Currently, rivers are running fast and high due to spring runoff. Water recreationists should use caution and be prepared to encounter changing river conditions, including log jams and other possible obstructions.

Local residents and visitors are reminded to practice safety while boating and floating in Grand Teton National Park. Vessels must carry USCG approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) of the appropriate size for each person on board. Passengers under 13 years of age must wear a PFD. Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited in the park. When on the water, stay aware of other boaters.

Grand Teton National Park is implementing the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local and state authorities to promote social distancing. Grand Teton is modifying operations at areas that cannot adhere to this guidance. Where it is safe, outdoor spaces will remain open to the public. Practice patience while traveling through the park.

Please visit https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/ans.htm for more information about preventing aquatic invasive species and https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/upload/boating19-access.pdf for information about boating in Grand Teton National Park.

Saturday, June 6, 2020

Map Highlighting Areas to Open in Glacier National Park on June 8

Below is a map of what will be open on June 8th when Glacier National Park begins welcoming visitors back to the park. You can click here for the full size version.

Friday, June 5, 2020

Backcountry Chalets to open in Glacier National Park

For those planning to stay at either the Granite Park Chalet or Sperry Chalet this year, we have some great news to report that was posted by the chalet manager yesterday.

Glacier National Park has announced they intend to begin the phased re-opening on June 8. This means that our chalet season can proceed on schedule.

We have organized our Covid-19 policies, procedures, and plans for you to review. For more information about how the pandemic will impact your plans for a chalet visit please review: http://www.sperrychalet.com/covid_information/

Day hikers and campers may also want to note the following information that was posted on the above link:

* Be advised that only guests with chalet reservations will be allowed inside the buildings. This is the only way to maintain appropriate social distancing with limited indoor space.

* Day hikers, horseback riders, and campers should be prepared to be self sufficient. Have enough warm clothing and be prepared for adverse weather.

* We are planning to have a limited selection of retail food service available outdoors.

* All visitors to the chalet areas will still have access to the restrooms and potable water sources.

Wednesday, June 3, 2020

Non-Resident Camping Now Open in Wyoming State Parks

Beginning this week, camping in Wyoming State Parks is open to out-of-state residents.

To support the overall health of the public, Wyoming State Parks have been open to outdoor recreation throughout this pandemic. Because of a relatively low number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state, camping was opened to Wyoming residents on May 15th. The restriction of out-of-state campers was put in place to cut down on the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

“Our team is excited to be able to increase our economic impact to the State and local economies by bringing in our consumers from around the country.” Darin Westby, agency director of Wyoming State Parks & Cultural Resources said. “Our criteria for opening camping to non-residents has always been when surrounding states opened their camping, and their respective COVID-19 cases began leveling. Now is the time.”

Regardless of residency, all persons interested in camping at Wyoming State Parks must still go through the reservation system to secure a campsite at all locations except Hawk Springs State Recreation Area, some sites on the west side of Boysen State Park, and Connor Battlefield State Historic Site near Ranchester (those campgrounds are still open on a first-come, first-served basis). Visitors can still secure a spot without a prior reservation, but must do so through the reservation system upon arrival at their chosen park.

Additionally, headquarters buildings at the various Wyoming State Parks have opened, allowing for the sale of annual day-use and overnight camping permits. Visitors are asked to join staff in adhering to social distancing recommendations whether meeting in offices, recreating at boat ramps, working at fish cleaning stations, or gathering at beaches and other areas.

Cabins and yurts are available for three-day reservations, Friday through Sunday. This will ensure that each structure will be cleaned and disinfected prior to the next reservation.

Wyoming State Parks continues to request that people recreate responsibly so Wyoming State Parks can continue to remain open for all to enjoy.

Tuesday, June 2, 2020

Glacier National Park Will Begin to Increase Recreational Access June 8

Following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local public health authorities, Glacier National Park is increasing recreational access and services on a limited basis on June 8. The park has been closed to visitors since March 24, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Glacier released their phased reopening plan last week. This limited opening approach will allow the park to continue coordinating with the Blackfeet Tribe while they maintain restrictions through June 30, help the park and internal business partners improve and refine mitigation actions with lighter levels of visitation, and allow for an assessment of how returning visitors affect COVID-19 curves within surrounding gateway communities.

“We understand the economic importance that Glacier has to our gateway communities,” said Superintendent Jeff Mow. “Our goal is to gradually provide visitor access and to mitigate for and respond quickly to any new infections should they occur.”

The park’s reopening priorities center on protecting the public and employees from transmission risks through a variety of mitigation actions consistent with local, state, tribal, and federal guidance. The park will actively monitor changing conditions (in the park and in surrounding counties); and will maintain flexibility to expand, adjust, or contract operations as conditions warrant.

The park has developed a range of mitigation actions that include: providing protective barriers where needed, encouraging the use of masks or facial coverings when social distancing cannot be maintained, increasing cleaning frequency of facilities, adding signage on boardwalks and other public spaces, and messaging to visitors through a variety of methods.

What will be open beginning June 8?

* On Monday, June 8 the park will open the west gate entrance at West Glacier. The gate will be open until 4:30 pm each day until operations are extended.

* Visitors will be able to access Apgar and Going-to-the-Sun Road as far as Lake McDonald Lodge.

* Going-to-the-Sun will open to hiker/biker traffic as conditions allow. Check the park website for updates.

* Visitors will be able to access restrooms and trails that are accessible from open park roads.

* Private businesses in Apgar Village may decide to operate.

* The park is targeting to have personal boating on Lake McDonald and aquatic invasive species inspection stations open. Check the park website for updates.

What will remain closed until later phases of the plan?

* East entrances from the Blackfeet Reservation will remain closed. The park is consulting with the Blackfeet Tribal Business Council to establish reopening dates for entrances from the reservation.

* Visitor Centers and Ranger Stations will remain closed until later in the season.

* Overnight accommodations will be unavailable until later in the season.

* Campgrounds, backcountry permits, additional stores, expanded tours, takeout food service, and visitor centers will remain closed. These services and/or facilities will open when safe and appropriate mitigation measures are in place.

* Hotels, full-service dining, commercial tour buses, and ranger programs will remain closed. These services and/or facilities will reopen when health conditions allow.

* Visitor Transportation Service (shuttles) will not be offered this season due to social distancing requirements in according with Center for Disease guidance on transit.

Visitors should come prepared and follow all CDC and local health guidance by practicing good hygiene and social distancing. Face coverings are recommended where social distancing is not possible. People who are sick should stay home and not visit the park. The CDC has provided specific guidance on visiting parks and recreational facilities.

“We are excited to have visitors return to Glacier National Park, but it’s important that our visitors help us prevent the spread of COVID-19 by practicing social distancing from fellow visitors and our employees,” said Superintendent Jeff Mow. “We all have a role to play in protecting our families and friends.”

Previously-scheduled road construction projects on both sides of the park will continue in the spring and summer. Many areas of the park are still experiencing winter conditions and plowing is in progress on Going-to-the-Sun Road. As in previous years, Going-to-the-Sun Road over Logan Pass is expected to open in late June.

The park will provide details and updates for operations as they change on https://www.nps.gov/glac/index.htm and on the park’s social media channels.

With more than 740 miles of trails meandering throughout the park, hiking is the absolute best way to see Glacier National Park. In fact, the park offers a wide variety of outstanding hikes that take-in the best scenery Glacier has to offer. If you do plan to visit Glacier this year, please note that our hiking website also offers a wide variety of accommodation listings and other things to do to help with all your trip planning.

Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Ramble On: A History of Hiking
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park