Upper Exum of the Grand Teton
While conditions up high on the peaks are drying out, we still recommend an ice axe for many of the approaches. Check out our updated conditions for the popular routes. Crowds have been limited. Mountain Passes and Divides still have lots of snow. The Teton Crest Trail is still not recommended for backpackers with heavy packs and limited snow skills.
BAXTER's PINNACLE OPEN - JUNE 28, 2012
The climbing closure on Baxter's Pinnacle is lifted. The climb was closed due to Peregrine Falcon nesting, but unfortunately the nest failed so the closure is no longer necessary.
A COLLEAGUE IS LOST - JUNE 23, 2012
GRAND TETON UPDATE - JUNE 15, 2012
Conditions update for the Grand Teton: ice axe and crampons recommended for both the Upper Exum and Owen-Spalding Routes. Much of the rock on the routes is dry, however patches of hard snow and occasionally ice linger in chimneys, ledges, and cracks. Ice axe and crampons are also recommended to access the Lower Saddle from the Meadows.
Iconic shot of the North Face of the Grand Teton - 6/14/12
SUMMER/WINTER - JUNE 9, 2012
There is a typical June summer / winter mix of snow conditions around the range. The snowpack is consolidated in most areas and snow level is around 9,000 feet. However, late spring storm events are still depositing fresh snow periodically. Many of the rock ridges and buttresses of the range are dry, but high elevation bowls, couloirs and ledges still hold considerable snow. The warm spring has left snow surfaces harder than usual and boots, crampons and ice axes are recommended for safe and efficient travel. Rangers performed the first rescue of the season for a climber who slipped on snow wearing approach shoes.
Photo of Hanging Canyon just east of Ramshead Lake, 6/9/12
Photo of the Meadows in Garnet Canyon, 6/6/12
AVALANCHE ACTIVITY IN THE RANGE CONTINUES...JUNE 3, 2012
North Fork Cascade - 6/3/12
Dartmouth Canyon - 6/3/12
Paintbrush Canyon - 6/3/12
JUNE 1, 2012
The heavy snows ending May 28th have rapidly settled to six inches at 9,500 feet but depths and drifts at higher elevations are as deep as four feet. Steep, avalanche -prone slopes continue to have widespread point releases and sloughing with warm temperatures and sunshine. Any steep slopes that have not had recent activity should be avoided if the snow has softened. Routes with eastern exposures become soft as early as six A.M.
Avalanche on a north facing slope at 9500' above Delta Lake
Photo taken 5/31/12 by Eric 'Doc' Janssen