Winter Trails Day in the Flathead Valley

The Flathead Community of Resource Educators (CORE), a network of individuals and organizations working together to increase awareness and understanding about the natural, historical and cultural resources of the Flathead Region, is celebrating Winter Trails Day on Saturday, January 10 with several free outdoor activities.

These free activities are a great way to enjoy the outdoors in winter and discover the fitness and social benefits of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in Northwest Montana. All activities are suitable for beginners and families. Be prepared with warm clothing and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots.

* A snowshoe walk on the Flathead National Forest, hosted by the Swan Lake Ranger District and Flathead Audubon, will be at the Blacktail Mountain cross-country ski trails near Lakeside, 10am-Noon. Participants may bring snowshoes, or a limited number of children and adult shoes will be available by reservation. Please meet at the upper trailhead parking area. Reservations are not required. For more information or to reserve snowshoes, please contact the Swan Lake Ranger District at 837-7500.

* Explore Lone Pine State Park on snowshoes. From 10am to 5pm, park visitors can borrow snowshoes and explore the many park trails. Adult and children’s snowshoes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A ranger-led snowshoe walk takes place at 1pm. Please contact the park at 755-2706 for more information and to reserve snowshoes for the 1pm walk.

* Join Whitefish Legacy Partners at Stillwater Mountain Lodge and the Whitefish Bike Retreat for a day of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow ‘fat’ bike riding and winter fun from 10am to 2pm. Participants can ski on the Stillwater Nordic Center’s groomed trails. Bring your own equipment or demo equipment is available on site from the Lodge and Sportsman & Ski Haus. Ravenwood Outdoor Learning Center will lead family friendly wilderness skill and animal tracking activities. Across the road from the Lodge, check out a ‘fat’ bike demo or snowshoe on the Whitefish Trail courtesy of several area cycle and outdoor sport shops. For more information contact Whitefish Legacy Partners, 862-3880.

* Ranger-led snowshoe hikes at Glacier National Park will be hosted at 10:30am and 2pm. Each hike will last approximately two hours and reservations are not required. Snowshoes are available for hike participants. Visitors need to purchase a park entrance pass. Please meet at the Apgar Visitor Center. Call 406-888-7939 or click here for more information.

* Join the Swan Ecosystem Center for a family snowshoe event at the Holland Lake Day Use Area, south of Condon, MT from 11am to 3pm. Bring your own snowshoes or a limited number of children and adult snowshoes available by reservation. Join a ‘trail trek’ geared for the whole family, warm up by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa. For more information or to reserve snowshoes call the Swan Ecosystem Center at 406-754-3137.

For more information about local events and Winter Trails Day visit www.wintertrails.org.

If you do plan to visit the Flathead Valley for Winter Trails Day, or anytime this winter, 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

Winter Season Activities & Operations Get Underway in Grand Tetons

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To obtain maps and closure locations, click here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

Weekend Snowshoe Walks Begin in Glacier

Beginning this weekend, Glacier National Park will again be hosting Winter Snowshoe Walks every Saturday and Sunday this winter, at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., through March 22nd.

The public is invited to join the two-hour, ranger-led snowshoe excursions of the winter environment. The program is free. Participants are encouraged to bring snowshoes or they are available to rent for a nominal fee at the Apgar Visitor Center. It's recommended that participants wear sturdy winter boots and dress in layers for a variety of winter conditions, and bring water and snacks. The snowshoe walks are suitable for all ages and abilities.

The walks begin and conclude at the Apgar Visitor Center. There is no group size limit and no reservations are taken. In the event of severe weather or insufficient snow, individuals should contact the visitor center at 406-888-7939 on respective weekend days, between 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to confirm that day's outings. Please contact the park headquarters at 406-888-7800 for general information regarding the walks, or visit http://www.nps.gov/glac.

Park entrance fees are required. The park's winter entrance fee is $15 for vehicles and $10 for single entrants (hiker /bicyclist /motorcyclist) for a seven-day pass.


Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Winter Trails Day in Glacier and the Flathead Valley

The Flathead Community of Resource Educators (CORE), a network of individuals and organizations working together to increase awareness and understanding about the natural, historical and cultural resources of the Flathead Region, is celebrating Winter Trails Day on Saturday, January 11 with several free outdoor activities.

These free activities are a great way to enjoy the outdoors in winter and discover the fitness and social benefits of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in Northwest Montana. All activities are suitable for beginners and families. Be prepared with warm clothing and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots.

* A snowshoe walk on the Flathead National Forest, hosted by the Swan Lake Ranger District and Flathead Audubon, will be at the Blacktail Mountain cross-country ski trails near Lakeside, 10am-Noon. Participants may bring snowshoes, or a limited number of children and adult shoes will be available by reservation. Please meet at the upper trailhead parking area. Reservations are not required. For more information or to reserve snowshoes, please contact the Swan Lake Ranger District at 837-7500.

* Explore Lone Pine State Park on snowshoes. From 10am to 5pm, park visitors can borrow snowshoes and explore the many park trails. Adult and children’s snowshoes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A ranger-led snowshoe walk takes place at 1pm. Please contact the park at 755-2706 for more information and to reserve snowshoes for the 1pm walk.

* Join Whitefish Legacy Partners at Stillwater Mountain Lodge and the Whitefish Bike Retreat for a day of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow ‘fat’ bike riding and winter fun from 10am to 2pm. Participants can ski on the Stillwater Nordic Center’s groomed trails. Bring your own equipment or demo equipment is available on site from the Lodge and Sportsman & Ski Haus. Ravenwood Outdoor Learning Center will lead family friendly wilderness skill and animal tracking activities. Across the road from the Lodge, check out a ‘fat’ bike demo or snowshoe on the Whitefish Trail courtesy of several area cycle and outdoor sport shops. For more information contact Whitefish Legacy Partners, 862-3880.

* Ranger-led snowshoe hikes at Glacier National Park will be hosted at 10:30am and 2pm. Each hike will last approximately two hours and reservations are not required. Snowshoes are available for hike participants. Visitors need to purchase a park entrance pass. Please meet at the Apgar Visitor Center. Call 888-7939 for more information.

* Join the Swan Ecosystem Center for a family snowshoe event at the Holland Lake Day Use Area, south of Condon, MT from 11am to 3pm. Bring your own snowshoes or a limited number of children and adult snowshoes available by reservation. Join a ‘trail trek’ geared for the whole family, warm up by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa. For more information or to reserve snowshoes call the Swan Ecosystem Center at 406/754-3137.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Report Estimates Backcountry Winter Recreation Contributes $22.5 Million Annually to Teton-West Yellowstone Economy

A new study from Jackson economist Mark Newcomb estimates that human-powered backcountry winter recreation in Grand Teton National Park, parts of the Bridger-Teton and Caribou-Targhee National Forests, and the Rendezvous Ski Trails in West Yellowstone contributes $22.5 million annually to the region’s economy.

Newcomb and colleague Karl Meyer conducted random surveys over the course of the 2012-13 winter season of resident and non-resident backcountry visitors who participated in the activities of backcountry skiing and snowboarding (also known as alpine touring or AT), cross-country skiing both on and off groomed trails, snowshoeing, walking/jogging on groomed backcountry trails, and over-snow biking. The survey asked for data about annual expenditures on goods and services related to these forms of backcountry recreation as well as the location and frequency of backcountry visits.

Topline findings include an estimated $12.5 million direct annual economic impact by nonresidents who participate in these activities while visiting the region and $6.5 million annual contribution from resident spending related to backcountry winter recreation. Newcomb estimates $3 million in annual wages to employees who work in jobs directly stemming from these forms of winter backcountry recreation and $1 million in tax revenues to state and local government. The geographic area of impact focused on the communities of Jackson, Driggs/Victor and West Yellowstone and includes Teton County in Wyoming, Teton, Bonneville, Fremont and Madison Counties in Idaho, and West Yellowstone, Montana.

“We know anecdotally that winter backcountry recreation is increasing throughout the study region,” said Newcomb who, in addition to experience in environmental economics and urban and rural planning, worked for 25 years as a backcountry ski guide and avalanche course instructor. “However, to date, there has been little information available about how these activities impact our economy.”

Newcomb added that the report takes a conservative approach both in its economic impact conclusions and in its estimate of total number of residents and nonresidents participating in backcountry winter recreation in the region. The report uses data from a combination of sources including National Park Service, USDA Forest Service, trail counts and concessionaire data to arrive at a population estimate of 7,419 residents and 41,336 nonresidents who participated in the above activities during the 2012-13 winter season.

“My intuition and my on-the-ground experience tell me the population numbers we arrived at are low,” said Newcomb, “and therefore, the economic impact is likely understated, but these are the best source numbers available so that’s what we went with.” Per person expenditure estimates are $803 spent annually by residents in-region and an additional $255 spent out-of-region on goods and services for backcountry winter recreation; and $273 per person per visit by nonresidents spent on backcountry winter recreation goods and services during their visit to the region.

The report incorporates data gathered in additional surveys: one of retailers in the area that sell gear, clothing and other goods and services related to backcountry recreation; and a second survey of organizations such as backcountry guide services and avalanche course providers, both for profit and nonprofit, that operate as authorized concessionaires on national forest or national park lands. This data provided information about employment and wages related to winter backcountry recreation and helped corroborate population estimates.

One surprise, according to Newcomb, is the significance of guided activity in the area. “While guided winter activity seems to have a relatively small footprint, our study found that the economic contribution is significant.” The study estimates that participants in guided activities and education programs spent 6,699 days in the backcountry and contributed $1.6 million in gross revenues and were responsible for $826,000 in wages.

The study also reinforced the quality of the winter backcountry opportunities in the region with 81 percent of nonresidents and 74 percent of residents who skied or snowboarded in the backcountry reporting they were "very satisfied" with their experience.

The report was commissioned by the Boise-based national nonprofit organization Winter Wildlands Alliance (WWA) and was funded through a grant from the LOR Foundation. “It’s a common refrain from land managers and decision makers that they need better and more economic data on our activities,” said WWA Executive Director Mark Menlove. “We chose to study the Teton-West Yellowstone area because it is renowned for its backcountry winter recreation, is well managed, and offers an excellent mix of recreational opportunities. This study verifies that backcountry recreation creates jobs and contributes significantly to the local economy. It’s hugely important for Winter Wildlands Alliance, both as a pilot project we hope to replicate in other regions and as a practical tool for land managers and planners in the region to use in resource allocation and management efforts.”

An executive summary and the full report, titled “Teton-West Yellowstone Backcountry Winter Recreation Economic Analysis,” are available at winterwildlands.org.


Jeff
Hiking in Glacier.com

Weekend Snowshoe Walks Begin in Glacier

Glacier National Park will again be hosting Winter Signs Snowshoe Walks every Saturday and Sunday this winter, at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., between now and March 17th.

The public is invited to join the two-hour, ranger-led snowshoe excursions of the winter environment. The program is free. Participants are encouraged to bring snowshoes or they are available to rent for a nominal fee at the Apgar Visitor Center. It's recommended that participants wear sturdy winter boots and dress in layers for a variety of winter conditions, and bring water and snacks. The snowshoe walks are suitable for all ages and abilities.

The walks begin and conclude at the Apgar Visitor Center. There is no group size limit and no reservations are taken. In the event of severe weather or insufficient snow, individuals should contact the visitor center at 406-888-7939 on respective weekend days, between 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to confirm that day's outings. Please contact the park headquarters at 406-888-7800 for general information regarding the walks, or visit http://www.nps.gov/glac.

Park entrance fees are required. The park's winter entrance fee is $15 for vehicles and $10 for single entrants (hiker /bicyclist /motorcyclist) for a seven-day pass.


Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Winter Season Activities to Begin in Grand Tetons

Although winter seems to be unusually late in coming this year, activities for the 2012/13 season begin Saturday, December 15 in Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. The Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center is open year-round and winter hours run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. To observe the Christmas holiday, the Discovery Center (12 miles north of Jackson) will be closed on December 25.

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

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

Ranger-led snowshoe hikes begin Wednesday, December 26 at the Discovery Center. This 2-hour activity is offered every day at 1:30 p.m., and previous experience is not necessary. Snowshoes are available for a rental fee of $5 for adults and $2 for children, 8 years or older. Reservations are required and can be made at 307.739.3399.

Backcountry users and mountaineers planning to stay overnight in the backcountry must get a non-fee permit before their trip at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center. Permits are not required for day users. To obtain weather forecasts and avalanche hazard information, stop at the Discovery Center, visit the backcountry website, or call the avalanche hotline at 307.733.2664.

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities in the park. Most trails are skier tracked, but not groomed. The Teton Park Road (TPR) is currently a designated trail, open to non-motorized use only. The TPR gets intermittently groomed in winter for cross-country and skate skiing from the Taggart Lake parking area to Signal Mountain; however, plowing of park roads and other access areas take priority and will often preempt grooming operations. In addition, grooming will only begin after sufficient snow (at least 2 feet) accumulates on the TPR. Important reminder: Snowshoers should walk adjacent to the groomed ski trail, as snowshoe treads ruin the grooved track set for skiers' use.

Skiers and snowshoers are not restricted to established trails; however, for protection of wildlife, they are required to observe closure areas from December 15 to April 1. To obtain trail maps, closure locations, or winter information, go to the park's website or visit the Discovery Center in Moose, Wyoming. Winter wildlife closure areas include:

• Snake River floodplain from Moran to Menor's Ferry near Moose
• Buffalo Fork River floodplain within the park
• Kelly Hill and Uhl Hill
• Static Peak and Prospectors Mountain
• Mount Hunt areas (see the park's cross-country ski brochure for descriptions)

Leashed pets are allowed on the park's plowed roads and turnouts, the unplowed Moose-Wilson Road, and the Grassy Lake Road. Pets are not allowed in the backcountry, which includes all other park areas beyond the plowed roadways.

The unplowed TPR is open to visitors who wish to walk, snowshoe or ski with their leashed pet. Dogs are restricted to the TPR winter trail, and must be restrained at all times on a leash no longer than 6-feet in length. Dogs must also be leashed while in the parking areas at Taggart Lake or Signal Mountain. Please keep dogs off the groomed ski tracks as a courtesy to other trail users.

Mutt Mitt stations are in place at the TPR trailheads to dispense plastic bags for pet waste; trash receptacles are also available for disposal of used bags. Pet owners are required to clean up their pet's waste and properly dispose of the bags in the receptacles provided. Some pet owners have left used bags along the side of the road, and when these bags become buried in snow, they cause problems for rotary snow plows during the spring road opening. If pet owners do not comply with the rules and regulations-especially with regard to pet waste disposal and leash rules-it is possible that pets will be prohibited from the TPR in the future.

Snowmobilers may use the frozen surface of Jackson Lake for the purposes of ice fishing only. A Wyoming State fishing license and appropriate fishing gear must be in possession.

On Jackson Lake, snowmobiles must meet National Park Service air and sound emissions requirements for Best Available Technology (BAT). Before operating a snowmobile in Grand Teton, review the regulations and approved BAT machines here, or stop by the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center in Moose, Wyoming.

Snowmobiles may also use the Grassy Lake Road in the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway (JDR Parkway) for recreation. The BAT machine requirement does not apply to snowmobile use on the Grassy Lake Road between Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch and Caribou-Targhee National Forest.

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


Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Winter Outings in Glacier National Park with GNPF

The Glacier National Park Fund will offer snowshoeing and cross-country skiing outings in Glacier National Park this winter. The purpose of each outing is to get some exercise and to take-in the beauty of Glacier National Park in the winter. There will be no formal interpretation so if you are interested in learning about Glacier in winter, check out the Park’s free ranger-led weekend programs or the Glacier Institute’s in depth courses. All GNPF winter outings are open to the public and will meet at the GNPF office in Columbia Falls. Please note that park entrance fees are required for all participants.

Outings are scheduled for:

• February 10th – snowshoeing
• February 24th – snowshoeing
• March 9th – cross-country skiing
• March 16th – snowshoeing
• March 23rd – cross-country skiing

All outings are weather dependent, will be on the west side of the Park and will last about 3 hours with breaks included. The time frame and distance will depend on the group, how everyone is feeling that day and the weather conditions. Call the Fund at 406-892-3250 for more information and to sign up for any of these outings. The full schedule and details are posted on GNPF’s website.

All participants are asked to be prepared. Winter weather conditions in Glacier are often unpredictable and can change rapidly so participants need to be prepared for any type of weather. It is suggested that you bring a backpack, your own water and sack lunch/snacks, winter hat, gloves, waterproof pants, sturdy waterproof boots, snowshoes or cross-country skis, poles, something waterproof to sit on while taking breaks, a camera and whatever else you might need.

The Glacier National Park Fund is the non-profit fund raising partner for Glacier National Park. Their mission is to preserve and protect the natural beauty and heritage of the Park for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. For further information about the Fund, call 406-892-3250 or go to www.glaciernationalparkfund.org.


Jeff
Hiking in Glacier.com

Waterton Winterfest

Come and enjoy four days of winter fun in the magic surroundings of Waterton Lakes National Park next month.

The Waterton Winterfest, with snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, horse-drawn carriage rides and other activities, takes place on Family Day weekend, February 17-20.

Join park personnel at the Little Prairie picnic shelter on the Akamina Parkway for a hot drink before warming your soul on the ski and snowshoe trails. Bring your own gear or rent skis and snowshoes from the Waterton Lakes Lodge or Waterton Glacier Suites. Guided trips will also be available.

Tour the village on a horse-drawn carriage ride. Chill out and warm up indoors with family activities, crafts and board games or maybe enjoy a splash around in the pool.

Take in a special performance by one of Parks Canada's Mountain W.I.T. actors. All ages will enjoy the songs, stories and sketches about the nature and culture of Canada's mountain national Parks.

This event is organised by Parks Canada and the Waterton Chamber of Commerce, including Waterton Lakes Inns and Resorts, Waterton Glacier Suites, and Waterton Outdoor Adventures.

Please click here for more information.


Jeff
Hiking in Glacier.com

Winter Trails Day

The Flathead Community of Resource Educators (CORE), a network of individuals and organizations working together to increase awareness and understanding about the natural, historical and cultural resources of the Flathead Region, is celebrating Winter Trails Day on Saturday, January 7 with several free outdoor activities.

These free activities are a great way to enjoy the outdoors in winter and discover the fitness and social benefits of snowshoeing in Northwest Montana. All activities are suitable for beginners and families. Be prepared with warm clothing and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots.

* A snowshoe walk in the Flathead National Forest, hosted by the Swan Lake Ranger District, will be at the Blacktail Mountain cross-country ski trails near Lakeside, 10am-Noon. Participants may bring snowshoes, or a limited number of children and adult shoes will be available by reservation. Please meet at the upper trailhead parking area. Reservations are not required. For more information or to reserve snowshoes, please contact the Swan Lake Ranger District at 837-7500.

* Explore Lone Pine State Park on snowshoes. From 10am to 5pm, park visitors can borrow snowshoes and explore the many park trails. Adult and children’s snowshoes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please contact the park at 755-2706 for more information.

* Ranger-led snowshoe hikes at Glacier National Park will be hosted at 10:30am and 1:30pm. Each hike will last approximately two hours and reservations are not required. Snowshoes are available for hike participants. Visitors need to purchase a park entrance pass. Please meet at the Apgar Visitor Center. Call 888-7939 for more information.

* A short snowshoe hike for ladies new to the sport will be offered by the Swan Ecosystem Center from 10am to 12:30pm in Condon. Snowshoes are available. Participants will learn about snowshoe basics and the guided hike will take participants over gentle terrain through open and forested areas. Please meet at the Forest Service Condon Work Center, 6887 Hwy. 83. Call 406/754-3137 to sign-up and for more information.

For information about Winter Trails Day visit www.wintertrails.org.


Jeff
Hiking in Glacier.com

Guided Snowshoe Walks Offered Again in Glacier

Glacier National Park has announced that the popular guided snowshoe walks will be offered again during the upcoming 2012 winter season.

Walks are scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays, 10:30 am and 1:30 pm, from January 7 through March 18, 2012. The walks will depart from the Apgar Visitor Center. Snowshoe rental is available at the Apgar Visitor Center or in the Flathead Valley adjacent to the park. Participants are urged to call the Visitor Center on the weekends after 9:00 am to find out if conditions will permit the walk, 406-888-7939.

Skiing and Snowshoeing:
There are several ski and snowshoe trails that can be accessed throughout Glacier. Click here for more information, trail maps and current avalanche conditions.

Other Winter Travel Information:
Vehicle access is more limited during the winter as Apgar Village, 11 miles of the Going-to-the-Sun Road on the west side, and a mile and a half on the east side are the only roads maintained in the winter. Check the Current Road Status to find out which roads are open for vehicle travel.

For road conditions outside of the park, please visit the Montana Department of Transportation Road Conditions Report.

Auto camping is available at the Apgar Picnic Area and St. Mary Campground. There is no charge for camping in the winter. A free backcountry permit is required to camp in the backcountry and available on both sides of the park. Please call ahead to find out the most convenient location to obtain your permit, 406.888.7800.

Additional visitor information can be obtained in person at Headquarters (Monday through Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, except holidays) and Apgar Visitor Center (open weekends from 9:00 am - 4:30 pm), or by phone at 406.888.7800.


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Jeff
Hiking in Glacier.com

Winter Season Activities to Begin in Grand Teton National Park

Activities for the 2011/12 winter season begin on Thursday, December 15 in Grand Teton National Park. The Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center (12 miles north of Jackson, Wyoming) is open year-round and winter hours run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The Discovery Center will be closed on December 25, to observe the Christmas holiday.

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

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

Ranger-led snowshoe hikes begin Monday, December 26 at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center. This 2-hour activity is offered every day at 1:30 p.m., and previous experience is not necessary. Snowshoes are provided for a requested donation of $5 for adults and $2 for children, 8 years or older. Reservations are required and can be made at 307.739.3399.

Backcountry users and mountaineers planning to stay overnight in the backcountry must get a non-fee permit before their trip at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center. Permits are not required for day users. To obtain weather forecasts and avalanche hazard information, stop at the Discovery Center, visit the backcountry website www.jhavalanche.org, or call the avalanche hotline at 307.733.2664.

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities in the park. Most trails are skier tracked, but not groomed. The Teton Park Road (TPR) is a designated winter trail, open to non-motorized use in winter. The TPR gets intermittently groomed for cross-country touring and skate skiing from the Taggart Lake parking area to Signal Mountain. Grooming operations may begin in late December after sufficient snow (at least 2 feet) has accumulated on the TPR. Severe winter storms or park emergencies may preempt the trail grooming schedule on occasion. Important reminder: Snowshoers should walk adjacent to the groomed ski trail, as snowshoes ruin the grooved track set for skiers' use.

Skiers and snowshoers are not restricted to established trails; however, for protection of wildlife, they are required to observe closure areas from December 15 to April 1. To obtain trail maps, closure locations, or winter information, go to the park's website or visit the Discovery Center in Moose, Wyoming. Winter wildlife closure areas include:

* Snake River floodplain from Moran to Menor's Ferry near Moose Buffalo Fork River floodplain within the park
* Kelly Hill and Uhl Hill
* Static Peak and Prospectors Mountain
* Mount Hunt areas (see the park's cross-country ski brochure for descriptions)

Leashed pets are allowed on the park's plowed roads and turnouts, the unplowed Moose-Wilson Road, and the Grassy Lake Road. Pets are not allowed in the backcountry, which includes all other park areas beyond the plowed roadways.

The unplowed TPR is open to visitors who wish to walk, snowshoe or ski with their leashed pet. Dogs are restricted to the TPR winter trail, and must be restrained at all times on a leash no longer than 6-feet in length. Dogs must also be leashed while in the parking areas at Taggart Lake or Signal Mountain. Please keep dogs off the groomed ski tracks as a courtesy to other trail users.

Mutt Mitt stations are in place at the TPR trailheads to dispense plastic bags for pet waste; trash receptacles are also available for disposal of used bags. Pet owners are required to clean up their pet's waste and properly dispose of the bags in the receptacles provided. Some pet owners have left used bags along the side of the road, and when these bags become buried in snow, they cause problems for rotary snow plows during the spring road opening.

Please note that allowing pets on the TPR is a provisional program that may be discontinued at any time. If pet owners do not comply with the rules and regulations-especially with regard to pet waste disposal and leash rules-it is possible that pets will be prohibited from the TPR in the future.

Dog sleds are not allowed on the Teton Park Road or on Grassy Lake Road in the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway (JDR Parkway).

Snowmobilers may use the frozen surface of Jackson Lake for the purposes of ice fishing only. A Wyoming State fishing license and appropriate fishing gear must be in possession.

On Jackson Lake, snowmobiles must meet National Park Service air and sound emissions requirements for Best Available Technology (BAT). Before operating a snowmobile in Grand Teton, review the regulations and approved BAT machines online, or stop by the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center in Moose, Wyoming.

Snowmobiles may also use the Grassy Lake Road in the JDR Parkway for recreation. The BAT machine requirement does not apply to snowmobile use on the Grassy Lake Road between Flagg Ranch Resort and the Caribou-Targhee National Forest.

For further information about winter activities in Grand Teton National Park or the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway, visit the park's website.


Jeff
Hiking in Glacier.com