Grand Teton National Park Climbing & Backcountry Information: 05/13

GETTTING READY FOR THE SEASON - MAY 31, 2013

Look close to pick out the rainbow hovering over the helicopter during yesterday's training.

Yesterday's storm deposited 8 to 9 inches of snow in the high country and some Teton skiers were out at it this morning. Small sluffs of the new snow can be seen on the peaks. Currently, the snow level is at approximately 8,500 feet. Most valley trails are dry with some mud and very isolated patches of snow. Trail crews have been hard at work clearing trees. Currently, the snow level is at approximately 8,500 feet.

REMINDER: Baxter’s Pinnacle and its southwest descent gully are closed due to an active peregrine falcon nest. The nearby climb, No Perches Necessary is open. Please be sensitive during this critical nesting period.

The Jenny Lake Ranger Station will open for the summer season at 8 a.m. on June 8, 2013.

Over the next couple weeks, keep an eye out for the first conditions information updates of the 2013 season!

Backcountry camping permits are required year-round for all overnight trips into the backcountry of Grand Teton National Park. Climbers and hikers can obtain free backcountry camping permits at the Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center prior to June 8. Detailed information can be found in the links on the right.

SPRING AT LAST! - MAY 10, 2013

Jenny Lake Overlook - 5/10/13

After a cold April kept things mostly frozen on the valley floor, spring seems to finally be taking hold as the snowline retreats up the hillsides and the lakes begin to thaw. Consistent snow will be encountered at an elevation of approximately 7500-8000'. The snowpack appears to have transitioned at all but the highest, shaded elevations with most aspects and elevations showing signs of late-day avalanche activity.

Retreating snowline on St Johns & Rockchuck - 5/10/13

Some evidence of wet slide activity on NE Snowfields - Mt Owen - 5/10/13

BAXTER'S PINNACLE CLOSED FOR NESTING PEREGRINE FALCONS - MAY 1, 2013

Beginning Wednesday, May 1, an area including Baxter’s Pinnacle and its southwest descent gully will be closed due to an active peregrine falcon nest.

In 2011, a peregrine falcon pair established a new nest near Baxter’s Pinnacle; this is the third year in a row that a closure will be levied to protect both climbers and falcons. As the peregrines reclaim this previous nest area, it is an especially critical time for them; therefore, it is important that climbers comply with the posted public closure.

Peregrines are territorial and aggressive birds especially while nesting and incubating eggs; they become even more protective after their chicks hatch. This area is predicted to remain closed until mid-August when the young birds have fledged or biologists determine there is no longer a risk to either climbers or the falcons.

The peregrine falcon is among the world’s fastest birds, flying at 40-55 mph and diving at more than 200 mph while defending territory or striking prey. This poses a safety risk to climbers who could be knocked off the route and injured.

The Teton Park Road is also open to motorized vehicle traffic for the summer season.

Backcountry camping permits are required year-round for all overnight trips into the backcountry of Grand Teton National Park. Climbers and hikers can obtain free backcountry camping permits at the Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center. Detailed information can be found in the links on the right.