January 29, 2012 Update:
A recent storm cycle lasting several days brought more than 4 feet of snow to the upper elevations of the Teton Range.  Numerous natural and more skier-triggered avalanches occurred throughout the Park in a widespread cycle that included all aspects and elevations.  Settled snow depths are approximately 230-250cm above 9,000 feet.  Unfortunately, all this new snow still rests upon a relatively weak faceted layer formed during the cold and dry part of the early season.  Avalanche forecasters continue to urge caution when traveling in the backcountry as large slab avalanches are still possible due to this persistent weak layer buried deep within the snowpack!  All route condition information has been removed from the site for the winter season, however, we will continue to provide periodic updates on the general conditions in the Teton Range throughout the winter.  For specific information on winter avalanche hazards and conditions please visit the Bridger-Teton National Forest Avalanche Center website.

The Teton Range with a thick, fresh balnket of new snow.  Photos taken 1/24/12.  

This large avalanche on "25 Short" probably occurred late on January 26.  It damaged many trees along the way and had a widespread and very deep debris pile!  Photos taken 1/29/12.

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The Jenny Lake Ranger Station is Closed for the Winter Season.

Backcountry camping permits are required year-round for all overnight trips into the backcountry. Permits are free and can be obtained at the Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center in Moose and the Colter Bay Visitor Center.

~The Jenny Lake Climbing Rangers

This website provides backcountry and climbing information for Grand Teton National Park. Currently the Park does not require permits for day-use climbing in the Teton Range, however, all hikers and climbers planning to stay overnight in the backcountry must obtain a camping permit year-round.

Bear Country

Park approved hard sided bear resistant canisters are required for all overnight backcountry use with the exception of the lakeshore sites at Phelps, Surprise, Leigh, Bearpaw, Trapper and Jackson Lakes as well as the Platforms, Meadows, Caves and Lower Saddle camp areas in Garnet Canyon, where bear-resistant food storage boxes are provided.  Approved canisters MAY not be required for specific alpine routes that require a bivouac.  Please see the Safety in Bear Country web page for more information.

Route Conditions

In the summer this site provides updated route condition information for trails, climbing routes, mountain passes and canyons. Please be aware that many mountain passes remain snow-covered throughout most of the summer and an ice axe, and the ability to use it correctly, may be recommended to ensure safe travel.

Backcountry Climbing Information

In the Backcountry and Climbing Information links you will find information on camping, permits, wilderness ethics and waste management recommendations, as well as contact information for commercial mountain guides that are authorized by the Park. Please note that special regulations apply to Garnet Canyon.

Weather Resources
Mountain weather can be variable and at times unpredictable. Afternoon thunderstorms are common during the summer months. Low temperatures at the high elevations may be at or below freezing at any time of the year. Use the Weather Resources links to help you prepare for your trip.

Trip Planning

The Trip Planning links provide information for purchasing books and maps, as well as links to trip planning pages on the park's official website:http://www.nps.gov/grte/index.htm.