The unseasonably warm and dry weather has finally come to an end and the Teton Range has received significant precipitation over the last three days. A brief glimpse revealed that the highest peaks got their first "dusting" of snow from this weather event.
While this snow is likely to melt off on east and south aspects, it will not on the north and west ones! Snow, ice and verglas will be present the rest of the season on the Owen Spalding route, requiring advanced skills and proper equipment to negotiate safely! All backcountry users should acknowledge the shorter days, cooler temperatures and come prepared with a weather forecast available at www.mountainweather.com
Climbers attempting other popular routes in the Teton Range should be prepared for shifting weather, unexpected alpine conditions, and cold nights, which can produce ice and verglas on multiple aspects and elevations. Weather and climbing conditions in the Tetons can change rapidly with each passing storm. Adequate preparation, appropriate gear, and self sufficiency are of the upmost importance when venturing into the mountains, especially during this time of year.
Backcountry permits are required for overnight trips into the backcountry and can be obtained at the Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center in Moose until October 31st. Staffing in the park is limited this time of year which can result in slower rescue response times than in peak summer season.
The Jenny Lake ranger station is closed for the season. The staff will make an effort to update conditions for the Grand and other popular peaks throughout the remainder of the month, however, expect cold alpine conditions in the mountains as we move into fall.