Starting this summer backcountry permits will no longer be free. Beginning summer 2014, backcountry campers will be charged a $25 fee for each walk-in permit. Climbers planning an overnight stay in the backcountry of Grand Teton National Park are required to have a backcountry permit which can be obtained at the Jenny Lake Ranger Station or the Craig Thomas Discovery Visitor Center.
SPRING CLOSURE IN EFFECT - MAY 2, 2014
BAXTER'S PINNACLE CLOSED FOR NESTING PEREGRINE FALCONS!
CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE
Beginning Friday, May 2nd, 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 fourth 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.
Backcountry camping permits are required
year-round for all overnight trips into the backcountry of Grand Teton National
Park. Climbers
and hikers can obtain backcountry camping permits at the Craig Thomas
Discovery & Visitor Center. Detailed information can be found in the links
on the right.