Supported by the Grand Teton National Park Foundation's Jenny Lake Rangers Fund
Content Contributions made by the Jenny Lake Rangers

EARLY WINTER UPDATE - DECEMBER 12, 2020

Winter has arrived in the Teton Range - 12.20.20 
The official start of winter is fast approaching and the Teton Range is starting to look the part.  After a couple of significant snow events in early and mid November things have been relatively dry of late and we are anxious to see more snow!  As we move into the winter season please be aware of a few reminders and some new things as well...

  • For up to date information on avalanche hazard and the state of the snowpack inside Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) please visit the Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center website for the current Teton Area Avalanche Forecast and the outstanding GTNP Snowpack Discussions.
  • All Park Visitor Centers and Campgrounds are closed for the winter season.  Camping is strictly prohibited in parking areas and pullouts.  Primitive dry camping with no available services is allowed for a small fee in the Colter Bay parking lot near the Colter Bay Visitor Center.    
  • Backcountry camping permits are required year-round for all overnight trips into the backcountry of Grand Teton National Park.  To obtain a permit to camp in the off-season please call the backcountry office at (307) 739-3309.
The Taggart Lake Parking Lot - 12.12.20
 Know the regulations and be prepared before you launch! 
  • Please be mindful of your choices while recreating this winter.  Staffing and resources throughout the area are limited and heavily taxed with the ongoing pandemic.  We ask everyone to do an honest self assessment of their knowledge, skills, and abilities before they venture out in the backcountry.
  KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
  • Does your group have the skills, knowledge and training to travel in avalanche terrain?
  • Are you carrying transceivers, shovels and probes?
  • Can you self-rescue? Do you have a plan?
  • Do you know the emergency number?
  • Have you checked the current avalanche forecast and weather forecast?
  • Have you checked out with someone?
  • Do you have any other route options?