Search Underway in Glacier National Park for Missing Climber

Search efforts are underway in Glacier National Park for Adam Fuselier, a 32-year-old man from Castle Pines, Colorado missing since Tuesday.

The vehicle of the missing man was found at Logan Pass on Wednesday. He was last heard from on Tuesday afternoon and was thought to start his climb at Reynolds Mountain in the morning that day. Rangers were alerted on Wednesday morning that he was overdue.

Rangers are searching for a 32-year-old Caucasian male with short brown hair, blue eyes, 6’2”, about 175 pounds. He may be wearing a light green rain jacket.Rangers conducted a hasty search yesterday which was cut short by inclement weather. Another search will be conducted this morning. Conditions in the park yesterday morning were rainy, overcast, and foggy. National Weather Service indicates weather becoming more favorable for searchers with decreasing winds and tapering of rainfall.

Anyone that may have information or was in the area and saw an individual that fits the description is encouraged to contact the park tip line at 406-888-7077.



Jeff
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Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
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National Park tourism in Wyoming contributes $1.13 billion to state economy

A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that 6,148,010 visitors to national parks in Wyoming spent $870,000,000 in the state in 2022. That spending resulted in 11,538 jobs and had a cumulative benefit to the state economy of $1,127,700,000.

“Since 1916, the National Park Service has been entrusted with the care of our national parks. With the help of volunteers and partners, we safeguard these special places and share their stories with more than 300 million visitors every year. The impact of tourism to national parks is undeniable: bringing jobs and revenue to communities in every state in the country and making national parks an essential driver to the national economy,” said National Park Service Director Chuck Sams.

“Visitors in 2022 to national parks in Wyoming spent $870,000,000 and supported 11,538 jobs in local communities,” said Regional Director Kate Hammond. “Every park in the state offers unique experiences, from learning about history up-close to diverse outdoor recreational opportunities. There’s something for everyone to see and enjoy.”

The national parks in Wyoming are:

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

California National Historic Trail

Devils Tower National Monument

Fort Laramie National Historic Site

Fossil Butte National Monument

Grand Teton National Park

Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail

Oregon National Historic Trail

Pony Express National Historic Trail

Yellowstone National Park

The peer-reviewed visitor spending analysis was conducted by economists at the National Park Service. The report shows $23.9 billion of direct spending by nearly 312 million park visitors in communities within 60 miles of a national park. This spending supported 378,400 jobs nationally; 314,600 of those jobs are found in these gateway communities. The cumulative benefit to the U.S. economy was $50.3 billion.

As for the economics of visitor spending, the lodging sector had the highest direct effects, with $9 billion in economic output nationally. The restaurants sector was had the second greatest effects, with $4.6 billion in economic output nationally.

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 NPS Social Science Program webpage: Visitor Spending Effects - Economic Contributions of National Park Visitor Spending - Social Science (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov).

To learn more about national parks in Wyoming and how the National Park Service works with Wyoming communities to help preserve local history, conserve the environment, and provide outdoor recreation, go to Wyoming (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov).



Jeff
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Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
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Biologists set to begin grizzly bear captures for research purposes in Yellowstone National Park

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 Aug. 28 and continue through Oct. 31. 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 Greater 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 sometimes 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 and approved by the U.S. Geological Survey and the National Park Service.

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



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
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Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Michigan Man Sustains Thermal Burns in Yellowstone National Park

Jason D. Wicks, age 49, of Hillman, Michigan, was arraigned in federal court on August 23, 2023, facing criminal charges of off-trail travel in a Yellowstone National Park thermal area and being under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the degree he was a danger to himself or others. Wicks pleaded not guilty to the charges. As part of the conditions for release, Wicks is banned from Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks until these criminal charges are resolved. This incident remains under investigation. A trial date has not been set.

The violation notice merely contains allegations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Wicks reportedly sustained thermal burns in the incident at Yellowstone, but officials did not say how or when it happened.

In a statement, Yellowstone National Park officials said that the ground in hydrothermal areas is fragile and thin, and there is scalding water just below the surface. Therefore, everyone must remain on boardwalks and trails and exercise extreme caution around Yellowstone’s thermal features. You can learn more about safety in thermal areas here: https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/safety.htm.



Jeff
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Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

NPS Approves Gunsight Lake Native Trout Preservation Project

The National Park Service (NPS) has approved the Glacier National Park Westslope Cutthroat (WCT) and Bull Trout Preservation project at Gunsight Lake. On August 11, 2023, the Regional Director for NPS Interior Regions 6, 7, and 8 signed a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the environmental assessment (EA) prepared for the project. The EA evaluated the project’s impacts to park resources, and the FONSI documents the conclusion that implementation of the project will not result in significant adverse impacts.

Non-native rainbow trout will be removed from Gunsight Lake and native fish species will be translocated to the lake. The action will remove the risk of hybridization to downstream native WCT, provide WCT and bull trout with habitat that is secure from the threats of hybridization and climate change, and support native trout genetics throughout the St. Mary River drainage.

Non-native rainbow trout will be removed from the lake using an EPA registered and approved fish toxicant, rotenone. While rotenone degrades naturally with sunlight and water movement, detoxification will be hastened with a neutralizing agent. The neutralizing agent, potassium permanganate, is widely used for the treatment of municipal drinking water and wastewater. Both rotenone and potassium permanganate will dissipate with no detectable long-term changes to water quality. Following the removal of the non-native rainbow trout, genetically pure WCT, bull trout, and mountain whitefish will be translocated into Gunsight Lake.

Project activities will begin late August or early September of 2023. The treatment area will be temporarily closed to the pubic during rotenone application and detoxification. The park anticipates closing Gunsight Pass Trail for approximately one week around the site preparation and rotenone treatment application period. The closure will extend from Reynolds Campground junction, and just east of Gunsight Pass. Gunsight Lake wilderness campground will close September 1, 2023, until spring of 2024.

From May 14 – June 15, 2023, the NPS solicited formal public comments on the EA. A summary of substantive comments and NPS responses is appended to the FONSI. For more detailed information on the project, the EA, FONSI, and a Minimum Requirements Analysis are available on the NPS Planning, Environment & Public Comment (PEPC) website. Project funding is being provided by the NPS Natural Resources Preservation Program and the Glacier National Park Conservancy.



Jeff
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Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Park rangers urge visitors to take personal safety seriously

August is “Search and Rescue” month in Grand Teton National Park and park rangers urge visitors to take personal safety seriously. As warmer temperatures melt snow throughout the Teton Range, backcountry trails and climbing routes become more accessible and draw hikers and climbers to attempt ambitious challenges in the backcountry. This has also resulted in a spike in the number of accidents and injuries that have necessitated a rescue.

Park rangers have already conducted 12 search and rescue (SAR) missions in Grand Teton this month. A total of 50 SARs have taken place in the park so far this year, highlighting common themes such as slips, trips, and falls, and unprepared hikers. Every outdoor user, regardless of their skill and experience level, is exposed to potential hazards, and is responsible for the overall risk management of themselves and their group, even in the event of an emergency.

All rescue operations come with some level of risk to the rescuer and helicopters are only used when the risks to the rescuers are assessed and deemed acceptable. Requesting a rescue does not guarantee that there can always be a response. Park rangers will determine the appropriate response actions based on the circumstances of each situation. Even if a helicopter is determined to be the best means of rescue, it may not be available due to weather conditions, time of day, mechanical issues, and/or other ongoing emergency operations. Plan your trip to be prepared to take care of yourself and members in your party if an emergency occurs.

When traveling into the backcountry, remember to plan ahead and follow these basic recommendations:

* Set a reasonable objective based on your group’s experience. When planning a hike or climb, make sure it is well within the abilities of your least experienced group member.

* Research your intended route by consulting topographic maps, guidebooks, and park rangers.

* Know the weather forecast and be prepared for rain, snow, ice, and cold. Temperatures and precipitation patterns can change rapidly in the high elevations of the Tetons.

* Always tell a friend or family member your route, and when you intend to return.

* Pack plenty of food and water, water treatment or a filter, headlamp, first aid kit, bear spray, phone or communication device, tools to make a fire, sun protection, map or GPS and a compass, and warm clothing layers. Additional items might be needed depending on your planned activity. Visit the National Park Service website to learn more about the Ten Essentials, or this extensive checklist.

*Be prepared to care for yourself or your partner(s) in case of an injury and carry the equipment, food, and water necessary to stay out longer than expected.

* Don’t be afraid to turn around. “Summit fever” can be the greatest hazard of all.

* Pay special attention when descending and moving across slippery surfaces. Most mountain accidents occur on the descent.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Two Medicine Lake Closed to Boating for the Season

Effective immediately, Two Medicine Lake in Glacier National Park will close to boating for the rest of the season due to the closing of the Two Medicine Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) inspection station. Boating and AIS inspection stations in all other areas of the park remain open for the remainder of the season, including the St. Mary station operated by the Blackfeet Tribe.

Glacier National Park partnered with the Blackfeet Tribe and Glacier National Park Conservancy to open AIS stations at St. Mary and Two Medicine lakes for the first time since the 2019 season. While other boat inspection stations in the park, including the AIS station in St. Mary, continue to be staffed and to operate successfully, the remote location of Two Medicine has contributed to challenges in staffing and equipment.

Waters from Glacier's extensive system of lakes, rivers and streams are the headwaters of three major watersheds that reach the Columbia River System and the Pacific Ocean; the Missouri River and the Atlantic Ocean via the Gulf of Mexico; and the South Saskatchewan River and Hudson Bay. It is critical that these headwaters are protected to prevent the spread of invasive species throughout the continent.

"We’ve been successful at reopening the St. Mary station – which is purposefully designed for boat inspections and is being staffed by our partners – but the set-up at Two Medicine has been more challenging,” said Dave Roemer, Superintendent of Glacier National Park. “Taking a pause will allow us to dedicate our collective efforts on the east side of the park to inspection stations at St. Mary, Many Glacier, and Browning to ensure the protection of these waters. We are grateful for our ongoing partnership, and plan to get an early start next year to have inspection stations for boating at Two Medicine, St. Mary, and lakes in the Many Glacier area in 2024."

All watercraft launched within Glacier National Park must be inspected for AIS prior to launching. AIS inspections are required for protection against non-native species that can devastate native aquatic ecosystems, as well as negatively change visitor use and enjoyment of park waterways. AIS can come in many forms, including animals such as zebra and quagga mussels, plants such as Eurasian watermilfoil, or pathogens such as whirling disease. These species can hitch a ride on any equipment including motorized and non- motorized watercraft such as float tubes, kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, and trailers.

For more details, including location and hours of operation for all AIS stations in the park, please visit the park boating webpage.



Jeff
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Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton seeks input on the future of visitor use and visitor experiences

Grand Teton National Park is seeking public input through October 10, 2023, on how visitors use, experience and access the park. The park will use this feedback to better understand public perceptions as it continuously looks to improve visitor experiences.

There are two opportunities to learn more about this public engagement process and ask park staff questions. The same material will be presented at each meeting.

Virtual meeting on August 31 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. (MST). To join the meeting, please visit the National Park Service’s Planning, Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) website. Link to the virtual meeting will be provided the week of August 28.

In-person meeting on September 20 from 4 to 6 p.m. (MST) at the Teton County Library Ordway Auditorium in Jackson, WY.

The park also invites the public to submit comments through the PEPC website. Comments submitted through social media, phone calls, email or mail will not be accepted.



Jeff
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RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Black bear obtains human food along Phelps Lake shore

On August 11, a black bear at Phelps Lake in Grand Teton National Park found an unattended backpack and consumed human food. This follows three other recent incidents of black bears accessing human items left along lakeshores while visitors were recreating in the water. In the last five years, almost half of all human-black bear conflicts within Grand Teton have occurred around lakes.

Proper food storage is mandatory in Grand Teton and visitors are required to properly secure all attractants for the protection of bears and other wildlife, as well as for human safety. These regulations apply whether you are camping, having a picnic, or swimming. Travelers from around the world come to Grand Teton to observe wild bears roaming across the iconic landscape. However, the opportunity to see a bear means that we have an extra responsibility to do our part to protect these animals by properly securing anything that may attract them.

When a bear is allowed to obtain human food, it can become “food-conditioned” and begin actively seeking out unnatural food. When this occurs, a bear’s behavior can become dangerously bold and a threat to public safety. If you observe a bear accessing human items or acting boldly, please report the incident to the nearest visitor center. The earlier park officials know about the bear’s behavior, the more options the park has to prevent further human-bear conflicts and avoid having to lethally remove the bear.

The solution to not creating food-conditioned bears is easy and we need your help. Take a moment to properly store all attractants, including food, coolers, clean or dirty cooking gear, pet dishes, toiletries, and anything that has a scent. Keep these items in a hard-sided vehicle with the windows rolled up or use a bear-resistant food storage locker or “bear box,” available in certain locations. If you recreate at one of the park’s lakeshores, make a plan for what you will do with your food items. You could opt to designate someone to stay with your food items or leave them in your closed vehicle. Remember to never leave your backpack farther than arm’s reach at all times. Commonly, when a bear finds human food, it involves visitors abandoning their items for just a moment - but just a moment away from your backpack can result in a bear’s death.

Be a steward for Grand Teton’s bears. Have a plan to secure your attractants when you visit the park. By each of us doing our part, we can ensure the long-term future of the park’s bear population. We can’t do it without you.

For more information on staying safe in bear country, please visit go.nps.gov/tetonbears.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

NPS Seeks Public Input to Help Improve Visitor Experiences at Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is seeking public feedback through September 30, 2023, on how visitors will access and experience the park in 2024. The park will host a series of virtual and in-person public meetings in late August to provide information from the past vehicle reservation pilot programs and answer questions. The public input from this process will be used to inform a strategy for summer 2024.

Over the past two decades, annual visitation at Glacier National Park has increased from approximately 1.5 million to over 3 million. Much of this use is concentrated along the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor and other front-country destinations during the peak season of June through September.

The park is in the third summer of piloting a vehicle reservation system for major park entrances. The pilots were initiated in summer 2021 as a response to increasing issues with traffic congestion including backups onto US Highway 2, infrastructure capacity, and impacts to park resources from high concentrations of people in the most popular areas of the park. Ongoing pilot reservation systems in summers 2022 and 2023 have provided opportunities to learn more and explore their viability in achieving desired conditions in the park.

Since the park initiated the pilot, it has collected and analyzed visitor use data, as well as feedback from the local community and others, to refine the parameters of the reservation system and continue to improve the visitor experience.

“We have learned a lot from the last three years of pilot reservation systems,” said Park Superintendent Dave Roemer. “We’d like to hear from the public about what has worked, what hasn’t worked, and what ideas they have for managing high visitation at Glacier for 2024. We are listening, and truly need that input before we begin to develop a strategy for next summer.”

There are several opportunities to learn more about this public engagement process and ask park staff questions. Scheduled meetings include:

Wednesday, August 23-Virtual meeting from 6 to 8 pm. Join by following the link at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/MeetingNotices.cfm?projectID=118357

Monday, August 28-Open house from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at the St. Mary Visitor Center on the east side of the park.

Tuesday, August 29-Open house from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at the Cedar Creek Lodge in Columbia Falls.

“The goal of this effort is to provide the best possible access while protecting the park and ensuring visitors have meaningful and enjoyable experiences,” Roemer said. “This work is central to the National Park Service mission, and we are looking forward to continued engagement with our partners, communities, tribes, and park friends to make sure that happens.”

The project website provides a summary of key issues, the history of visitation and visitor use management in the park, and instructions for how to formally submit comments.



Jeff
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Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Plan ahead for upcoming construction closures in Grand Teton

Travelers in Grand Teton National Park should plan ahead for construction closures during installation of new restroom facilities throughout the park. Closures are necessary for public safety and to facilitate the use of a crane.

Tentative construction closures

Aug. 17 – 25: Signal Mountain Summit Road will be closed.

Aug. 17 – Sept. 9: Two Ocean Lake Road will be closed, with no access to Two Ocean Lake parking during construction.

Aug. 22: String Lake Boat Launch parking, String Lake Outlet Trailhead parking, and Catholic Bay parking will be closed.

Motorists should plan ahead for closures and reduce speeds in areas where work is occurring. For status of park roads, visit Grand Teton’s live road status map at go.nps.gov/tetonroads or call 307-739-3682. Construction schedules may change or be delayed without notice due to weather conditions or other circumstances.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

The Piedmont Appalachian Trail Hikers club reviews "Ramble On"!

Earlier this month the Piedmont Appalachian Trail Hikers club published a review of my new book, Ramble On: How Hiking Became One of the Most Popular Outdoor Activities in the World. The Piedmont Appalachian Trail Hikers (or PATH) is one of 31 volunteer clubs associated with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy that helps to maintain the Appalachian Trail. PATH is responsible for maintaining 66 miles of the National Scenic Trail in southwest Virginia. I want to sincerely thank Karl Kunkel for publishing his detailed review of the book in the latest edition of PATHWAYS, a quarterly publication by the Piedmont Appalachian Trail Hikers.

In the review, Kunkel notes that "Hikers of all levels — whether they be long-distance backpackers or Sunday afternoon day-hikers— have probably spent some quiet time along a trail, wondering about the history of this pursuit they have embraced. The author's heavily researched book offers a solid springboard for the curious. Thanks to his detailed history, a reader can branch out into any number of avenues."

Mr. Kunkel concludes his appraisal by declaring that “This history offers much food for thought for those interested in uncovering the many strands of a sport — and a passion — that are intricately woven into our culture."

To read the entire review (on page 3), please click here. To purchase the book on Amazon, please click here.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Glacier National Park Proposes Campground Fee Rate Changes

Glacier National Park is proposing fee rate changes to most front country campgrounds in 2024 and Apgar Group Sites in 2025. Public comments on the proposed fee increases will be accepted through September 8, 2023.

Glacier is a popular front country destination with a high demand for campsites. The last major fee rate change occurred in 2007; fee rate increases are necessary to be in closer alignment with nearby campgrounds outside the park that provide similar services.

After extensive research of local campground rates and provided services outside the park, the park has identified proposed fee rate changes. The proposed rates for campsites would increase between $3-10 depending on the type of site. Some group sites could potentially increase up to $30 while others could decrease up to $20.

Recreation fees provide a vital source of revenue for improving facilities and services to enhance visitor experiences. Projects funded by recreation fees include trail and campground repairs and improvements, increasing accessibility, and facility restoration. By increasing fees, Glacier National Park will continue to be able to provide and improve services that directly benefit visitors.

Public engagement is an important part of the park’s planning process. Comments can be submitted on the NPS Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC) website at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/GLACCampgroundFees.

Comments may also be submitted via mail to:

Glacier National Park
Office of the Superintendent
PO BOX 1
West Glacier, MT 59936



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Three Women Injured by Otter on the Jefferson River

Three women were injured by an otter last Wednesday evening while floating on the Jefferson River in Montana.

About 8:15 p.m., the three women were floating on inner tubes about 3 miles upstream from Sappington Bridge when they observed one or two otters. An otter approached and attacked them. The women got out of the water, and the otter swam away. The women then called 911, and several agencies responded, including Montana Highway Patrol, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson Valley Ambulance, and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, Life Flight and a local landowner.

All three women were injured during the encounter and received medical treatment in Bozeman. One of them, whose injuries were more serious, was taken to the hospital in a helicopter.

FWP staff have posted signs at several fishing access sites in the area advising recreationists of otter activity. No further management action is planned at this time.

While attacks from otters are rare, otters can be protective of themselves and their young, especially at close distances. They give birth to their young in April and can later be seen with their young in the water during the summer. They may also be protective of food resources, especially when those resources are scarce. Otters are members of the weasel family.

FWP advises recreationists to keep a wide distance, giving all wildlife plenty of space. In drought conditions, low water levels can bring recreationists closer to water-dwelling wildlife. Being aware and keeping your distance can help avoid dangerous encounters, reduce stress for wildlife, and promote healthy animal behavior. If you are attacked by an otter, fight back, get away and out of the water, and seek medical attention.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Temporary Closure of Pine Creek/Long Lake Trailhead and Parking Lot, and Trails End Campground in Pinedale

The Pinedale Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest will be temporarily closing the Pine Creek/Long Lake Trailhead and parking lot, and the Trails End Campground for road construction that needs to take place in the area. This temporary closure will be for a total of 12-hours on August 8, 2023 from 7:00a.m. to 7:00p.m.

This temporary closure will allow for ongoing road maintenance in the area, and to ensure safety to all people in the area. If a vehicle is in the parking lot, or a vehicle is occupying the camping area they will have to wait until 7:00p.m. when the closure is lifted to get their vehicle out of that location. Persons and stock can come and go with direction from construction personnel to the trailhead/parking lot and campground during this closure. This temporary closure only impacts vehicles during this identified time.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park seeks input on proposed backcountry camping permit rate and fee structure change

Grand Teton National Park is seeking public input on a proposed rate change for backcountry camping permits. The current rate is $45 for advanced reservations and $35 for walk-up permits, regardless of the group size or number of nights. The proposed permit fee change is a flat fee of $20 plus a $7 per person - per night fee. The current fees, which have been in place for six years, are often viewed as inequitable between small and large groups and the number of nights stayed.

Grand Teton National Park is proposing that the rate change take effect for the 2024 permit season with advanced reservations anticipated to go live in January.

The public is invited to submit comments on this rate change for a 30-day period from August 3 - September 4, 2023 through the National Park Service’s Planning, Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) website. Comments submitted through social media, phone calls, email or mail will not be accepted. All public comments must be received through PEPC by midnight Monday, September 4, 2023.

The revenue from backcountry permit fees allows the park to continue to provide world-class backcountry experiences that are in high demand, while limiting impacts on the backcountry environment. Fees from backcountry camping permits are used in the park so staff can provide safety information, patrol campsites and provide visitor services, aid in search and rescue efforts, maintain and improve trails, campsites, facilities, and other amenities that directly enhance the visitor experience.

For information about backcountry camping in Grand Teton, visit the park website at go.nps.gov/tetonbackcountry.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions Going into Effect in NW Montana

Interagency fire managers are implementing Stage 2 Fire Restrictions that will go into effect at 12:01am Saturday, August 5th, 2023, across the Flathead National Forest, Kootenai National Forest, Glacier National Park, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation - Northwestern Land Office, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Region 1, and Lake County, Lincoln County, Flathead County, and Sanders County.

Northwest Montana is currently in Extreme Fire Danger and experiencing drought conditions contributing to extremely dry forest fuels. Forecasts for above normal temperatures accompanied by low humidity, increased wind, and minimal precipitation all contribute to Extreme Fire Danger. Competition for firefighting resources increases as the number of fires burning across the State and the West rise. When the fire danger is "Extreme", fires of all types start quickly and burn intensely. Small fires become big fires much faster than at the "very high" fire danger level. Spot fires are probable, with long-distance spotting likely. These fires are very difficult to fight and may become very dangerous and often last for several days.

Please click here for more information on what is and isn't allowed.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park