Yellowstone National Park’s Dunraven Pass opens ahead of schedule

The road from Canyon Village to Tower Fall (Dunraven Pass) opened today, May 16, to public motor vehicle traffic.

Originally scheduled to open May 24, road crews were able to complete spring plowing operations ahead of schedule due to mild winter conditions. The Chittenden Road to Mount Washburn will remain closed at this time. All park roads are now open for the season.

The public are asked to:

* Watch for quickly changing weather conditions and possible temporary closures due to late spring storms. Many areas of the park are still experiencing winter conditions, and snow and ice may cover sections of roads and trails.

* Stay informed about up-to-date road conditions and traffic delays due to road improvement projects in Yellowstone: Visit Park Roads. Call (307) 344-2117 for recorded information.

* Receive Yellowstone road alerts on your mobile phone by texting "82190" to 888-777 (an automatic text reply will confirm receipt and provide instructions).

* Come prepared. Services in the spring are limited. Visit Operating Dates for area-specific season opening dates.

* Bison, elk, bears and other wildlife use roads as travel corridors. Roadside snowbanks prevent them from easily moving off the roads. Do not crowd, harass or push wildlife. Be mindful as wildlife endure this difficult time of the year.

* Stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from all other wildlife. It is your responsibility to maintain safe distances at all times.



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From Montana to New Mexico, the American Rockies stretch for more than a thousand miles. Within this spectacular mountain range are thousands of miles of hiking trails. With such an overwhelming number of options, how will you find and choose the most scenic and rewarding hikes?

Ultimate Hiking Guide to the Rocky Mountains takes all the guesswork out by focusing on some of the most amazing hikes across this range, and provides you with a handpicked list of options that will allow you to make the most of your trips in the Rockies:

New Book Showcases 75 Hikes across the Rocky Mountains

From Montana to New Mexico, the American Rockies stretch for more than a thousand miles. Within this spectacular mountain range are thousands of miles of hiking trails. With such an overwhelming number of options, how will you find and choose the most scenic and rewarding hikes?

Ultimate Hiking Guide to the Rocky Mountains: Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico takes all the guesswork out by focusing on some of the most amazing hikes across this range, and provides you with a handpicked list of options that will allow you to make the most of your trips in the Rockies.

What’s in this trail guide?

* Detailed descriptions for 75 day hikes that lead to tranquil backcountry lakes, roaring waterfalls, deep canyons, alpine meadows and placid glaciers. Many ascend to high mountain passes and summits. All of them will lead you to extraordinary places that offer breathtaking scenery.

Ultimate Hiking Guide to the Rocky Mountains is now available on Amazon.

Flathead National Forest Campgrounds Prepare to Open for the Summer Season

Camping season is right around the corner on the Flathead National Forest. The Flathead has 31 developed campgrounds that provide a range of services, accommodations, and access. These range from campgrounds with roads, Wi-Fi, and cell phone coverage to more primitive locations with limited services. Of the 31 campgrounds, 13 are under management by a concessionaire through a special use permit. There are currently two concessionaires that provide customer service and high-quality recreation experiences. Flathead Valley Campgrounds operate the Tally Lake, Big Creek, and Devil Creek Campgrounds, along with several sites around the Hungry Horse Reservoir. Big Sky Recreation Company runs the campgrounds at Holland Lake, Swan Lake, and Lindbergh Lake.

The Flathead continues to make improvements to several popular sites using Legacy Restoration Funds made possible by the Great American Outdoors Act, including new water systems at the Tally Lake and Devil Creek Campgrounds. The Devil Creek Campground will have a delayed opening due to construction and is anticipated to open June 1. While Tally Lake Campground is open as usual, construction on the Campground water system has begun with anticipated completion by July. No water will be available to visitors during this improvement work and some sites may be impacted.

Holland Lake Campground will supply portable restrooms for the Bay Loop area in place of flushing restrooms while the wastewater system is inoperable. The RV dump station will be closed this season, but potable water will be available. The areas already serviced by vault toilets will remain open with no change.

This year, Swan Lake, Holland Lake, and Lindbergh Lake campgrounds are opening early and are currently on a first come, first served basis until normal reservations begin on May 17 for Holland Lake and Swan Lake campgrounds. Lindbergh Lake campground remains first come, first served all season.

In addition to designated campgrounds, dispersed camping is allowed throughout the Forest. Dispersed camping is managed on a first come first served basis and can give a one-of-kind camping experience. If you plan on camping away from a designated campsite, please research that area beforehand and follow all posted rules and regulations during your stay. The maximum stay for the most dispersed sites on the forest is 16 days, although some popular sites near water will have shorter stay limits posted.

As you start to plan your adventures, keep in mind that bears are awake and food, garbage, and other scented items attract bears. Help avoid attracting bears while camping and recreating. The food storage order for Flathead National Forest is designed to minimize grizzly bear/human conflicts. Visit the Forest website for more information on recreating safely in bear country: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/flathead/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5347448

For more information about camping, visit our website or contact the associated Ranger Station: https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/flathead/recreation/camping-cabins

Hungry Horse/Glacier View Ranger District: (406) 387-3800
Tally Lake Ranger District: (406) 758-5204
Swan Lake Ranger District: (406) 837-7500
Spotted Bear Ranger District: (406) 758-5376

To reserve a campground through Recreation.gov, please visit: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/gateways/1016



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Glacier National Park preserves more than a million acres of some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth. With more than 740 miles of trails meandering throughout this vast park, how will you find and choose the most scenic and rewarding hikes?

Exploring Glacier National Park takes all the guesswork out by focusing on the most amazing hikes, and provides you with handpicked recommendations that will allow you to make the most of your trip to Glacier:

Hot Off The Press!

Brand new, and hot off the press! I'm super excited to announce the release of my new book: Ultimate Hiking Guide to the Rocky Mountains: Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico

This new trail guide is now available on Amazon!

Weather-permitting, South Entrance in Yellowstone National Park to open Friday, May 10

Weather-permitting, the following roads in Yellowstone National Park will open 8 a.m. Friday, May 10 to public motor vehicle traffic:

* South Entrance to West Thumb
* West Thumb to Old Faithful (Craig Pass)
* West Thumb to Lake Village
* Tower-Roosevelt to Tower Fall

Weather-permitting, the road from Canyon Village to Tower Fall (Dunraven Pass) will open 8 a.m. May 24.

Stay informed about up-to-date road conditions and traffic delays due to road improvement projects in Yellowstone:

* Visit Park Roads.

* Call (307) 344-2117 for recorded information.



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Check out our online trail guides:

• Glacier National Park: HikinginGlacier.com

• Grand Teton National Park: TetonHikingTrails.com

• Rocky Mountain National Park: RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

The "second" Rocky Mountain Club

The “Rocky Mountain Club” was formed in 1875, one year before the iconic Appalachian Mountain Club was established in Boston. Little is known about the original RMC, other than its famous members, which included Frederick Hayden, Albert Bierstadt and Cyrus West Field. One of the charter members of the Appalachian Mountain Club, Charles Fay, speculated that the club didn’t last long because that area of the country was still unsettled, thus, the pioneers who lived there simply didn’t have time for recreational activities.

A second “Rocky Mountain Club” was established in 1896. This organization was founded by William L. Hallett, one of the early mountaineers in the Rocky Mountains. Although it started out as a hiking club, it morphed into a climbing group, and as a result, was renamed the Rocky Mountain Climbers Club several years later. It’s most notable achievement was the first ascent of Grand Teton in Wyoming in 1898. Hallett was expected to lead this ascent, but a work-related issue prevented his participation.

Born in Massachusetts in 1859, William Hallett became a prominent cattle rancher and mining engineer. Shortly after moving to Colorado in 1878 he became one of the first pioneers to reside in the Estes Valley. In 1881 he built a house on Mary's Lake Road, which still stands today, and is now used as a dentist office. Hallett also climbed several peaks in the region, including the first documented ascent of Stones Peak. Another favorite ascent, 12,713-foot Hallett Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park, now bears his name.

In Ramble On I discuss the emergence of hiking clubs and the crucial role they played in helping to make hiking a popular pastime across much of the globe.



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Virtually no one went hiking before the 19th century. What occurred that inspired ordinary people to take a walk through the woods for pleasure? Ramble On explores the rich history of hiking, and how it evolved into one of the most popular pastimes in the world:

Agencies announce decision to restore grizzly bears to North Cascades

The National Park Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service have announced a decision to actively restore grizzly bears to the North Cascades of Washington, where the animals once roamed.

Grizzly bears occupied the North Cascades region for thousands of years as a key part of the ecosystem, distributing native plant seeds and keeping other wildlife populations in balance. Populations declined primarily due to direct killing by humans. The last confirmed sighting of a grizzly bear in the U.S. portion of the North Cascades ecosystem was in 1996.

In the Record of Decision released today, agencies have decided to restore grizzly bears to the North Cascades ecosystem through the translocation of grizzly bears from other ecosystems in the Rocky Mountains or interior British Columbia. The decision is the culmination of an Environmental Impact Statement process that began in 2022.

Agencies will seek to move three to seven grizzly bears per year for a period of five to 10 years to establish an initial population of 25 bears. The U.S. portion of the North Cascades ecosystem is roughly 9,800 square miles in size, larger than the state of New Jersey, and contains some of the most intact wildlands in the contiguous U.S. Roughly 85% of the mountainous region is under federal management.

"We are going to once again see grizzly bears on the landscape, restoring an important thread in the fabric of the North Cascades." said Don Striker, Superintendent of North Cascades National Park Service Complex.

Under the decision, grizzly bears in the North Cascades will be designated as a nonessential experimental population under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act. The designation will provide authorities and land managers with additional tools for management that would not otherwise be available under existing Endangered Species Act regulations. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service will publish a final 10(j) rule in the Federal Register in coming days.

“The final 10(j) rule is based on extensive community engagement and conversations about how the return of a grizzly bear population in the North Cascades will be actively managed to address concerns about human safety, property and livestock, and grizzly bear recovery.” said Brad Thompson, State Supervisor for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. “It provides an expanded set of management tools in recognition that grizzly bear recovery in the North Cascades is dependent on community tolerance of grizzly bears.”

Public feedback played a key role in the decision. During the fall 2023 public comment period, more than 12,000 comments were received on both the draft Environmental Impact Statement and a proposed 10(j) rule.

There is no set timeline for when translocation of grizzly bears to the ecosystem may begin. The National Park Service will publish updates on the park website and notify partners and the public of implementation plans as they develop.



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

Man approached bison too closely in Yellowstone National Park and was injured

A 40-year-old male, Clarence Yoder, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, approached a bison too closely (within 25 yards) on the afternoon of April 21, 2024, and was injured by the bison. The incident occurred on the West Entrance Road near the Seven Mile Bridge, located 7 miles east of the park’s West Entrance.

Rangers responded to the area after receiving a report of an individual who harassed a herd of bison and kicked a bison in the leg. They located the suspect's vehicle near the West Entrance and stopped it in the town of West Yellowstone, Montana.

Yoder was arrested and charged with 1) being under the influence of alcohol to a degree that may endanger oneself, 2) disorderly conduct as to create or maintain a hazardous condition, 3) approaching wildlife, and 4) disturbing wildlife. The driver of the vehicle Yoder traveled in, 37-year-old McKenna Bass, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, was also arrested and cited for 1) driving under the influence, 2) interference for failure to yield to emergency light activation, and 3) disturbing wildlife.

Yoder sustained minor injuries from the encounter with the bison. Rangers transported Yoder to a nearby medical facility where he was medically evaluated, treated and released from medical care. He then was transported to the Gallatin County Detention Center.

Yoder and Bass appeared in court on April 22 and pleaded not guilty to the charges. At this point, these are merely allegations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Each violation can result in fines up to $5,000 and six months in jail.

The incident remains under investigation, and there is no additional information to share.

This is the first reported incident of a visitor being injured by a bison in 2024. The last reported incident occurred on July 17, 2023. There was one reported incident in 2023 and three in 2022.



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

Dr. Lyman B. Sperry: Early Trail Builder

In the heart of Glacier National Park is the 216-acre Sperry Glacier. It's named after Dr. Lyman B. Sperry of Oberlin College, who scouted for "scenic attractions" on behalf of the Great Northern Railway in an effort to expand tourism opportunities in the region. In June of 1895, while exploring the basin above Lake McDonald, Sperry saw and heard multiple avalanches roaring down the mountains that surround what is now known as Avalanche Lake, and agreed with those in his party, "that Avalanche Basin would be a most appropriate name for the place."

On a return trip later that same summer Sperry would discover the glacier that now bears his name. Here's a photo of the Sperry Party on Sperry Glacier:

Several years later the college professor would oversee construction of a trail that led from the head of Lake McDonald to Sperry Glacier. Dr. Sperry's trail, constructed in 1902 and 1903 with the help of 15 students from the University of Minnesota, was likely the first organized trail-building effort in the park. Sperry's motivation for building the trail came from the thought that by providing access to the most beautiful parts of Glacier's backcountry, more people would have the opportunity to see the wonders of the area, and thus increase the probability of preserving it as a national park.

Now known as the Gunsight Pass Trail, Dr. Sperry's original trail still leads to the glacier that bears his name, as well as the historic Sperry Chalet. At an elevation of more than 6550 feet, Sperry Chalet sits high atop a rock ledge that offers visitors commanding views of majestic mountain peaks, waterfalls and the Lake McDonald valley. Now listed as an Historic Landmark, the Sperry Chalet dining chalet was built by the Great Northern Railway in 1913, while the original dormitory was completed during the following year. For those visiting Sperry on a day hike you may want to note that the dining room is open to the public from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day.

In my history of hiking, Ramble On, I discuss trail development in Glacier in far more detail, including the crucial role the Great Northern Railway played during the early years of the park.

Here's a hiking party on Sperry Glacier in the 1920s:

Here's a photo from the Milwaukee Public Museum titled, "Crevass in Sperry Glacier into which a lady fell 45 feet but was not serious hurt":

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Virtually no one went hiking before the 19th century. What occurred that inspired ordinary people to take a walk through the woods for pleasure? Ramble On explores the rich history of hiking, and how it evolved into one of the most popular pastimes in the world:

Biologists to begin 2024 grizzly and black bear captures for research purposes in Yellowstone National Park

As part of ongoing grizzly bear and black bear research and management efforts and as required under the Endangered Species Act to monitor the population in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, the U.S. Geological Survey, in conjunction with the National Park Service, is working to inform the public that scientific capture operations are once again about to begin within Yellowstone National Park.

Biologists with the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team (IGBST) and Yellowstone National Park will begin field captures on May 1 and continue through Oct. 31. None of the trap sites in the park will be located near established hiking trails or backcountry campsites, and all trap sites will have posted warnings for the closure perimeter. Potential access points will also be posted with bright warning signs for the closure area. It is critical that the public heed these signs. Backcountry users who come upon any of these posted areas need to stay out of the area.

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 bear capture efforts, call the IGBST hotline at 406-994-6675. Information about grizzly bear research and monitoring is available from the IGBST website.



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 Legacy of Abner Sprague

"We came here for small ranch operations, but guests and visitors became so numerous, at first wanting eggs, milk, and other provisions, then wanting lodging, and finally demanding full accommodations, that we had to go into the hotel business or go bankrupt from keeping free company!"

    - Abner Sprague

In 1874, just 14 years after Joel Estes settled in what is now Estes Park, Abner Sprague began building a humble homestead in Moraine Park. Almost immediately he began hosting travelers at his cabin, thus establishing the first tourism business within the boundaries of the future national park. The homestead would eventually become a lodge that was used for hunting, fishing, dude ranching, and even golf at one point. By the turn of the century Sprague’s lodge and guest cabins could accommodate up to 100 guests per night. In 1900 (or 1904) the property was sold to James Stead, which remained in business as the Stead’s Ranch and Hotel until 1962.

After selling the lodge the Sprague's moved to Loveland. However, in 1910, seeking "to prevent my homesickness for Estes Park and the mountains from becoming chronic", Abner Sprague and his wife built another guest lodge in the Glacier Basin area. This was located in the current parking area for Sprague Lake. In 1932, the National Park Service purchased the property, but gave the Sprague's a twenty-year operating lease before razing the buildings in 1957.

Abner Sprague would go down in Rocky Mountain National Park history once more when he became the first visitor to pay an entrance fee in 1939.

Today, 12,713-foot Sprague Mountain, Sprague Lake, Sprague Glacier, and Sprague Pass all bear his name. Additionally, Alberta Falls is named for Alberta Sprague, Abner's wife of 55 years.



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From Montana to New Mexico, the American Rockies stretch for more than a thousand miles. Within this spectacular mountain range are thousands of miles of hiking trails. With such an overwhelming number of options, how will you find and choose the most scenic and rewarding hikes?

Ultimate Hiking Guide to the Rocky Mountains takes all the guesswork out by focusing on some of the most amazing hikes across this range, and provides you with a handpicked list of options that will allow you to make the most of your trips in the Rockies:

Yellowstone National Park 2024 road improvement projects

There will be two major road improvement projects in Yellowstone National Park in 2024. The Lewis River Bridge and Yellowstone River Bridge projects will cause traffic delays. It’s important that visitors plan accordingly for these delays located along the park’s southern and northern road corridors.

1. Lewis River Bridge

Location: Nearly 10 miles north of the South Entrance on the South Entrance Road

Access: In 2024, expect up to 20-minute delays while roads are open to wheeled vehicles (May-Oct. 31). Nearby pullouts and the trail to Lewis River Falls will be closed during construction.

Improvements: This project began in 2022 and will conclude fall 2024. It includes the removal and replacement of the Lewis River Bridge. The existing bridge will be removed, and a new bridge will be constructed immediately downstream. The project includes additional parking and viewing opportunities.

2. Yellowstone River Bridge

Location: Near Tower Junction along the Northeast Entrance Road

Access: In 2024, expect up to 30-minute delays. The Northeast Entrance Road is open year-round to wheeled vehicles. Hiking trails in the area may temporarily close during the duration of the project. Visit the Backcountry Situation Report for details.

Improvements: This project began in 2023 and will conclude fall 2026. It includes the replacement of the structurally deficient Yellowstone River Bridge built in 1961. A new 1,285-foot-long, 175-foot-high steel girder bridge upstream will replace the existing 604-foot-long bridge to preserve year-round access to/from the Northeast Entrance and communities of Silver Gate and Cooke City, Montana. New pullouts, paved parking areas, and dedicated route across the new bridge will increase access to trails, fishing and viewpoints. The Yellowstone River Picnic Area will be enlarged to accommodate increased visitor use.

Temporary delays or closures can happen at any time on park roads. Stay informed.

* Visit Yellowstone’s website at Park Roads.

* Call 307-344-2117 for recorded information.

* Receive Yellowstone road alerts on your mobile phone by texting “82190” to 888-777 (an automatic text reply will confirm receipt and provide instructions).



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

American Hiking Society to Celebrate the 32nd Annual National Trails Day on June 1, 2024

Millions of people from across the country will hit the trail on Saturday, June 1, 2024, celebrating American Hiking Society’s 32nd annual National Trails Day®.

This year is about celebrating the trails, giving back, and finding community in the outdoors. Hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, paddlers, trail clubs, federal and local agencies, land trusts, and businesses will partner at events across the country to forge a more inclusive trail community and advocate for, maintain, and clean up trails and public lands, collectively working together to build a world where everyone feels welcome and has access to enjoy the great outdoors.

American Hiking and the nationwide trails community invite people of all ages and abilities to connect with their local community around their love of being outside. Anyone can join the national movement by giving back to the trails and making sure everyone can enjoy the outdoors with three simple actions:

* Join: Find a local event;

* Pledge: Commit to leaving the trail and the outdoor community better than you found them. American Hiking provides simple ways to make a positive impact;

* Connect: Share how you’ll leave the trail and the outdoor community better than you found them by tagging #NationalTrailsDay and @AmericanHiking on social media.

American Hiking Society invites individuals and organizations alike to register an event for National Trails Day® for free on the searchable directory of events on NationalTrailsDay.org. Tens of thousands of people will use the event database to find events in their local community. Event registration will continue until National Trails Day®, but American Hiking encourages events to be registered by early May so interested participants can begin planning for National Trails Day®.

Last year, over 74,000 individuals participated in events at nearly 800 sites nationwide, and more than 7,000 trail volunteers built and maintained 558 miles of trails in celebration of National Trails Day® in 2023.



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 Father of Glacier National Park

George Bird Grinnell is widely regarded as a towering figure in the American conservation movement. Not only is he recognized as "The Father of Glacier National Park", but he's also recognized as "The Father of American Conservation".

Born in 1849, Grinnell was an explorer, historian, anthropologist, naturalist, writer and founder of the Audubon Society. As editor of Forest and Stream he crusaded for more than a decade for more stringent protection of Yellowstone’s wildlife. He campaigned tirelessly to defend the fledgling park from commercialization, and specifically focused on protecting bison from hunters, as Yellowstone was its last refuge. In 1894 he fully exploited a famous poaching incident that occurred within the park boundaries. Less than two months after the incident, the Lacey Act of 1894 was passed by Congress, which was a direct result of Grinnell's persistent reporting. The act protected wildlife in Yellowstone, and made violations punishable.

Grinnell made his first visit to Glacier in 1885. He was so inspired by the scenery that he spent the next two decades working to establish it as a national park. In 1896 he was one of three commissioners to sign the treaty with the Blackfeet Indians that transferred ownership of the land that would become Glacier National Park.

During his first visit to the future park Grinnell would discover the glacier that now bears his name. Today, Mount Grinnell, Grinnell Lake, Grinnell Falls and Grinnell Glacier are all named in honor of him. During his final visit to the eponymous glacier in 1926, Grinnell noted in his diary that, "the glacier is melting very fast and the amount of water coming from it is great. All these glaciers are receding rapidly and after a time will disappear."

Grinnell (second from right) and a hiking party on Grinnell Glacier in 1926:

Grinnell and his wife, Elizabeth, circa 1925:

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Glacier National Park preserves more than a million acres of some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth. With more than 740 miles of trails meandering throughout this vast park, how will you find and choose the most scenic and rewarding hikes?

Exploring Glacier National Park takes all the guesswork out by focusing on the most amazing hikes, and provides you with handpicked recommendations that will allow you to make the most of your trip to Glacier:

Select Yellowstone National Park roads open to public April 19

Beginning at 8 a.m. Friday, April 19, 2024, select roads in Yellowstone National Park will open to the public, weather permitting. Roads begin to open annually this time of year for the summer season. On Saturday, April 20, entrance fees will be waived in celebration of National Park Week.

Roads opening April 19:

* West Entrance (West Yellowstone, Montana) to Old Faithful (via Madison Junction)

* Mammoth Hot Springs to Old Faithful (via Norris Junction and Madison Junction)

* Norris Junction to Canyon Village

Additional park roads will open throughout May, weather permitting.

The only roads open year-round are between the North Entrance in Gardiner, Montana, and the Northeast Entrance in Cooke City/Silver Gate, Montana (via Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Junction and Lamar Valley).



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 Suspicious Death of Robert Ray Hamilton

Did you know that Signal Mountain in Grand Teton National Park received its name as a result of a highly suspicious death?

In the spring of 1890, John Dudley Sargent, along with his partner, Robert Ray Hamilton, began construction on Merymere Lodge, a 10-room cabin overlooking Jackson Lake north of Colter Bay. In August of that year, Robert, who happened to be the great-grandson of Alexander Hamilton, mysteriously went missing while hunting for antelope. Search parties were immediately organized with instructions to light a "signal" fire atop an isolated mountain east of Jackson Lake once he was found. A week later searchers found his body floating in the Snake River. As directed, a fire was lit, and the name "Signal Mountain" stuck for the low-lying mountain.

Speculation swirled for years as to whether Hamilton was murdered by his business partner, who would also be suspected of murdering his wife several years later. The circumstances surrounding both cases were strange and entangled. In the end, neither accusation was ever proved, or completely solved.

Without going into the long details of what transpired before and after Hamilton's death, as well as the somewhat confusing and contradictory details of his death, it's assumed that he drowned while trying to ford the Snake River at a particularly dangerous location. The prevailing rumor around Jackson Hole was that Sargent gave Hamilton directions to cross at this spot, knowing full well that this was a highly treacherous ford. Moreover, the supposition was that Sargent wanted Hamilton dead so that he could gain sole possession of the lodge.

Seven years later, as mentioned, Sargent's first wife also died under highly suspicious circumstances. Again, the settlers in Jackson Hole immediately suspected Sargent of murder. In 1913, Sargent himself was found dead in his cabin by passing travelers who could smell his decomposing body from the road. He was found sitting in a rocking chair, with a string tied from his big toe to the trigger of his rifle.

Here's John Dudley Sargent in his cabin, presumably in the chair that he died in:

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Virtually no one went hiking before the 19th century. What occurred that inspired ordinary people to take a walk through the woods for pleasure? Ramble On explores the rich history of hiking, and how it evolved into one of the most popular pastimes in the world:

Celebrate National Park Week from April 20 through 28

During National Park Week, experience the beauty of natural surroundings, explore the country’s rich heritage, and engage your senses in all things national parks. The celebration begins with an entrance fee-free day on April 20 and continues through April 28. Pick a place and activity, keep a safe distance from any wild animals, and enjoy a full week of special events.

“With countless options of things to do and see, there really is something for everyone in our country’s national parks,” said National Park Service Director Chuck Sams. “During National Park Week, and throughout the year, I encourage people to discover and enjoy the natural, cultural, historical, and recreational opportunities available in national parks and through National Park Service community programs.”

A trip planning guide, safety tips, and detailed information about each national park are available on NPS.gov and the official NPS app. An online calendar of activities provides information about National Park Week happenings. In addition, each day will feature an aspect of the National Park Service (NPS) and related people, partners, places and stories. Don’t forget to join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #NationalParkWeek.  

Saturday, April 20: Discovery – Did you know that there are 429 national parks, with at least one in every state, including national seashores, historical sites, and recreation areas?

Sunday, April 21: Volunteers – Did you know that 123,000 people volunteered their time and talent with the NPS last year?

Monday, April 22: Earth Day – Did you know that the NPS has a Green Parks Plan that incorporates sustainability in national parks and that you can also practice conservation at home?

Tuesday, April 23: Innovation – Did you know that many national parks honor American ingenuity and that the NPS uses innovative measures to make improvements in park infrastructure?

Wednesday, April 24: Workforce Wednesday – Did you know that thousands of employees, interns, fellows, volunteers, contractors, and partners work to preserve parks and provide visitors with enjoyable experiences?  

Thursday, April 25: Youth Engagement – Did you know that the next generation of stewards are already making a difference in national parks?

Friday, April 26: Community Connections – Did you know that the NPS administers almost 100 community-based programs that support recreation, conservation, and preservation efforts in almost every county in America?

Saturday, April 27: Junior Ranger Day – Did you know that kids (and kids at heart) can become a Junior Ranger through in-person or online activities?

Sunday, April 28: Arts in Parks – Did you know that there is a long and ongoing history of parks providing artistic inspiration?

For more information about National Park Week, please visit NPS.gov/npweek.



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

Cut Bank Chalets

The Cut Bank Chalets on the east side of Glacier National Park were one of nine backcountry chalet complexes built by the Great Northern Railway during the second decade of the 20th Century. Located near the present day Cut Bank Trailhead, the railway constructed four structures between 1911 and 1912, including an 18x80 foot dining hall/kitchen, two single room cabins, and a two-story six-room cabin with a lounge area. The chalets officially opened in 1913, and were able to accommodate up to 42 guests during its heyday. As a result of its location near the North Fork Cut Bank Creek, the rustic lodge became a very popular destination for fishermen.

In 1917 the NPS constructed a ranger station near the chalet. This is the only building from that era that still remains in the Cut Bank valley. Due to declining business the lodge closed in 1933. By 1949 the structures were regarded as "beyond repair" and an "eyesore," and were dismantled by the park.

The historic photo below was taken by T.J. Hileman around 1925. Above the main building is Bad Marriage Mountain:

Here's a close-up photo of the main building, taken by George A. Grant in 1932:

Though the chalets are long gone, the somewhat remote Cut Bank valley still offers hikers outstanding hiking opportunities, including Medicine Grizzly Lake and Triple Divide Pass.



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From Montana to New Mexico, the American Rockies stretch for more than a thousand miles. Within this spectacular mountain range are thousands of miles of hiking trails. With such an overwhelming number of options, how will you find and choose the most scenic and rewarding hikes?

Ultimate Hiking Guide to the Rocky Mountains takes all the guesswork out by focusing on some of the most amazing hikes across this range, and provides you with a handpicked list of options that will allow you to make the most of your trips in the Rockies:

The Moraine Park Loop

The Moraine Park Loop is a great introductory hike for those that are new to Rocky Mountain National Park, looking for an easy hike, or looking for something at the lower elevations while acclimating to the altitude. The loop offers spectacular views of Snowdrift Peak and Stones Peak towering above the valley floor. You'll also stand a great chance of seeing elk along this route.

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 2024 Construction Updates

Glacier National Park has announced plans for construction areas during the 2024 spring and summer season. Visitors are encouraged to plan and prepare for traffic delays.

Park Headquarters
In August a rehabilitation project of the park headquarters complex roads and parking lot will be taking place into the fall. Be aware of construction vehicles, workers and possible wait times if entering headquarters.

Going-to-the-Sun Road Rehabilitation

The west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road will undergo the last phase of construction work that began in May 2023. The last 2.8 miles of construction will focus on paving Going-to-the-Sun Road, starting west of Sprague Creek Campground up to North Lake McDonald Road. Construction will resume in April 2024, and is expected to be completed in late May to early June 2024, weather permitting. Construction will cause delays along Going-to-the-Sun Road. Visitors should anticipate up to a 30-minute wait.

Fiber Optic Installation at West Glacier, East Glacier, St. Mary, and Many Glacier
Fiber optic lines will be installed in West Glacier, East Glacier, St. Mary, and Many Glacier to improve internet access for NPS administrative purposes. Traffic delays will be minimal, but visitors are asked to use caution and watch for construction workers and equipment on or near the road this summer.

At West Glacier, fiber optic line will be installed across the Middle Fork bridge and on the east side up to Grinnell Drive in park headquarters. Traffic may be restricted to a single lane on Going-to-the-Sun Road up to Grinnell Drive. Work in West Glacier will be completed within 2-3 weeks.

In East Glacier, fiber optic cable will be installed across US Highway 2 and along MT-49. Lane reductions or single lane closures are possible along MT-49 up to the East Glacier Ranger Station. Work will be completed within 1-2 weeks.

Fiber optic work will take place close to the St. Mary Entrance on the west side of US-89 near restaurants and hotels. Minimal traffic impacts are expected, but there will be possible pedestrian and parking impacts. Work in St. Mary will be completed within 1-2 weeks.

Fiber optic work in Many Glacier includes an extension of fiber optic internet service from Babb to the Many Glacier Ranger Station. The line will be installed on the north side of the road. The work will impact areas near the entrance sign, entrance station, Apikuni Falls Trailhead, pull-offs along the Many Glacier Road, the Many Glacier Hotel T-intersection, and the Swiftcurrent area of the road. There may be lane reductions or single lane traffic on Many Glacier Road. Work will be completed within 4-6 weeks.

Swiftcurrent and Many Glacier
Starting September 16, 2024, the road past Many Glacier Hotel at the T-intersection will be closed due to construction on the Swiftcurrent Water Distribution System and road rehabilitation. Construction will begin after Swiftcurrent Motor Inn, Many Glacier Hotel and Many Glacier Campground are closed for the 2024 season. Trail access will still be allowed for trails such as Ptarmigan Tunnel (and points beyond), Iceberg Lake, and Swiftcurrent Pass. However, visitors will need to park in the Many Glacier Hotel parking lot, walk to the closure point and use the horse trail to bypass construction. Signs will indicate the detour. Cars will not be able to pass through the construction zone. For best access to Grinnell Glacier, Grinnell Lake and Lake Josephine, start from the South Shore Trailhead at the south end of Many Glacier Hotel. Primitive camping at Many Glacier Campground will not be available in Fall 2024 due to construction. Many Glacier Campground’s regular summer season is from early June to mid-September.

The Many Glacier Road from the park boundary to the entrance station will undergo dust mitigation treatment. The treatment work will begin in late June, weather permitting. This gravel stretch of road is slated for construction and paving in 2027.

Upper McDonald Creek Bridge
Construction on the Upper McDonald Creek Bridge that started in 2023 will continue in 2024 including demolition of the existing bridge. The bridge provides access to the northwest shore of Lake McDonald including private homes, the Lake McDonald Ranger Station, and trailheads (such as the Upper McDonald Creek Trail). When completed, the new bridge will be approximately 30 feet upstream of the existing bridge, requiring a realignment of the road approaches.

Similar to 2023, North Lake McDonald Road will be closed for the entire 2024 season at the Going-to-the-Sun Road intersection. There will be no public access, including vehicles, hiking, or biking and no parking beyond or in the vicinity of the intersection. Visitors intending on hiking the Johns Lake Loop Trail will not be able to complete the loop and will need to turn around where trail closure signs are posted. Bridge construction is expected to conclude in August 2024.

Inside North Fork Road
Grading will be ongoing throughout the summer on the road to Bowman and Kintla lakes. Operations will not disrupt travel to these destinations. Major road work between Camas and Anaconda creek could impact hiker and biker travel.

Polebridge
Construction on Glacier Drive in Polebridge that began in 2023 will continue in 2024. Visitors to the Polebridge area should expect 30-minute delays before arriving at and departing from the park entrance. Visitors are encouraged not to drive all the way to the North Fork entrance unless they have a vehicle reservation to decrease traffic in the work zone. Information regarding the ongoing construction work will be posted at the Polebridge Mercantile. Updates for the construction project can be found on Montana Department of Transportation's website.



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Glacier National Park preserves more than a million acres of some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth. With more than 740 miles of trails meandering throughout this vast park, how will you find and choose the most scenic and rewarding hikes?

Exploring Glacier National Park takes all the guesswork out by focusing on the most amazing hikes, and provides you with handpicked recommendations that will allow you to make the most of your trip to Glacier:

The Old Forest Inn

Located near The Pool in Rocky Mountain National Park is the former site of the Forest Inn. Established in 1917, the Forest Inn featured a lodge, dining room, lounge, and several cabins and tents throughout its lifespan. According to a 1934 park brochure, the Forest Inn "on Fern Lake Trail, offers board and lodging (tents) at prices from $3 to $4 a day and $15 to $20 a week. If you occupy a cabin, the charge is from $4 to $5 a day, and $20 to $25 a week. Single meals are $1 each. F. D. Tecker operates Forest Inn."

The resort closed its doors in 1951, was sold to the National Park Service during the following year, and was finally razed in 1959.

Like the old Fern Lake Lodge, the resort was only accessible by trail. Today, the Old Forest Inn backcountry campsite occupies the former resort site. The two campsites are located roughly 200 yards above The Pool.

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Virtually no one went hiking before the 19th century. What occurred that inspired ordinary people to take a walk through the woods for pleasure? Ramble On explores the rich history of hiking, and how it evolved into one of the most popular pastimes in the world:

Spring Recreation at Grand Teton

While snow continues to periodically fall on the Tetons, Grand Teton National Park has opened the Teton Park Road between Taggart Lake Trailhead and Signal Mountain Lodge to activities such as walking, biking and skating. Visitors are now invited to recreate on approximately 14 miles of the road heading north from the Taggart Lake parking lot to Signal Mountain Lodge. For safety reasons, visitors are reminded to avoid going beyond any barricades marking closures as plowing activities on adjacent roads continue.

Please use caution, as snow and ice may persist on some sections of the road creating slick conditions. Visitors should also be alert for park vehicles and heavy equipment that travel this road as spring opening operations continue.

On nice days in April, the Teton Park Road can be busy with visitors. Use caution as you drive in this area, as children, pedestrians, cyclists, and other users share the section of the road between Taggart Lake Trailhead and Cottonwood Picnic Area with vehicles. To avoid riding in traffic with your group, use the 10-minute loading and unloading zone at Cottonwood, located just north of the Taggart parking lot.

Visitors enjoying the Teton Park Road, should consider:

* Entrance fees are required to enter Grand Teton National Park. Fees and passes can be paid at the Moose and Moran entrance stations, or through Recreation.gov. For park fee information, visit go.nps.gov/tetonfees.

* Be watchful and cautious of wildlife, as it is common for animals to use park roads.

* Carry bear spray, have it readily accessible and know how to use it.

* Drivers should slow down and use caution in parking areas.

* Be thoughtful of how music may affect others. Operating an audio device, such as a stereo, Bluetooth speaker, radio, or musical instrument in a manner which is unreasonable and impacts park users is prohibited by law.

* Food and water are not available at the trailhead or along the road.

* Restroom facilities are available at Taggart Lake Trailhead, Cottonwood Picnic Area, and at Signal Mountain Lodge. Portable restrooms are also located along Teton Park Road.

* Leave No Trace and dispose of trash in receptacles located at both ends of the road.

* Dogs are permitted on the Teton Park Road on a leash no longer than six feet. Pet owners are required to clean up after their dogs. Waste disposal bag stations are located at both ends of the road. Bags should be deposited in trash receptacles and not left along the road.

The paved multi-use pathway in the park will open whenever it is predominately free of snow and ice. The pathway is closed from dusk to dawn for wildlife and public safety. Pets are not permitted on the pathway.

For information on park roads, visit go.nps.gov/tetonroads. The Moose-Wilson Road between the Granite Canyon Trailhead parking lot and the turn off to Death Canyon is closed to vehicles until it melts free of snow.

The public is also invited to join park rangers on early-morning tours to observe strutting sage grouse perform their annual mating dance near Mormon Row. Grouse strut programs are a unique opportunity to witness greater sage grouse congregate where the males perform animated mating displays during the spring breeding season. As part of the ritualistic strut, in open areas called “leks,” males use their tail feathers and expandable air sacs under their throats to compete with other males for an optimum position on the lek and to gain the attention of females.

During grouse-strut programs, rangers will provide information about sage grouse and conservation efforts underway for populations that are declining throughout much of the American West. Programs will be offered free of charge, by reservation only, Saturday, April 20, Sunday, April 21, Saturday, April 27, and Sunday, April 28. Participants will meet at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center in Moose at 5:30 a.m. Participants should bring cameras, binoculars, water, warm layers, and comfortable walking shoes. To reserve your spot and for more information, please call 307-739-3399 (Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. MT).

The Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center in Moose will open for the season on May 1. It will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For all other opening and closing dates for facilities and services within the park, please visit go.nps.gov/tetonseasons.

For more tips for enjoying spring in the park, visit go.nps.gov/tetonspring.



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

Bluebird Lake

Bluebird Lake in the Wild Basin area of Rocky Mountain National Park is one of my all-time favorite hikes. The hike offers several attractions along the way, including Copeland Falls, Calypso Cascades, Ouzel Falls and Ouzel Lake. Bluebird Lake, however, is definitely the star attraction:

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

Critical winter range reminder and spring conditions on the forest

The Bridger-Teton National Forest reminds visitors that winter wildlife restrictions remain in effect until May 1, 2024. It is important that all forest users understand the importance of observing critical winter range closures. Winter travel maps are available on the forest’s Maps and Publications webpage. These areas have been designated as essential to the survival of wildlife. When visitors access closed winter range, they cause animals using the area to become stressed or flee to new locations. This causes animals, especially ungulates like deer, elk and moose to use energy they cannot spare at this critical time of year. It can also place these animals in less suitable areas for grazing and/or browsing, preventing them from gathering the food sources necessary for their survival. This leads to a weakened condition, which can have a direct effect on the animals’ ability to defend themselves, making them more susceptible to predation and disease, and can lead to future reproduction problems in individual animals.

Spring is also an important time to be aware of hazards that come with the changing season. The forest reminds visitors to exercise caution as snow melts, temperatures rise and precipitation increases during the spring thaw, creating potential for muddy conditions and flooding in low-lying areas. Conditions across the forest are varied this time of year, and visitors should call or visit their local Ranger District Office for the latest updates before heading out for any spring activity. Be sure to let someone know where you are headed and remember that creeks or roads frozen in the morning may become soft and impassable as temperatures rise throughout the day.

Forest users are encouraged to recreate responsibly this spring. Recreating with our four-legged members of our families can be great fun but comes with certain responsibilities. Be aware that many popular trailheads on the Jackson District have leash requirements, and even outside these areas it is imperative that visitors maintain control of their animals through a leash or voice command. This is essential to minimizing impacts on wildlife and improves the experience of other forest users. Bears will soon be coming out of hibernation throughout the area, so be prepared with bear spray and follow food storage orders where applicable on the northern and eastern parts of the forest. All forest users are also encouraged to practice Leave No Trace Principles by having a plan for all waste, as there are limited to no garbage services on the forest and many restrooms are closed or inaccessible due to current conditions.



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