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

FALL UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

Although conditions remain warm and dry, climbers and hikers should be prepared to deal with changing conditions, including:

  • Snow, ice and verglas in shaded areas, especially on north and west aspects above 11,000 feet
  • Freezing overnight temperatures. On average, temperatures drop 3 degrees for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
  • Shorter days- usable light until 7:30-8:00 pm.
  • Rescue operations can be limited by reduced staffing, severe weather and limited helicopter use. Consider your climbing objectives carefully and be prepared for self-rescue. 

Specific route condition updates will be limited as we transition to fall and staffing is reduced. This Homepage will continue to provide periodic updates on general Teton Range conditions.

CONDITIONS UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 10, 2018

Most of the snow and ice from the August 28th storm has melted from the upper elevations. Expect mostly dry conditions on southern aspects. Pockets of snow and ice can still be found on northern and western aspects above 12,000'. Climbing experience and familiarity with the Teton Range will determine the need for ice axe and crampons.

CONDITIONS UPDATE - AUG 31, 2018

The past few days have provided snow melting and changing conditions after an early storm. Conditions in the high mountains remain challenging, although climbers are successfully summiting. In order to safely and successfully climb routes currently, climbers should be ready for significant snow and ice remaining in shady areas and chimneys, despite exposed areas being clear and dry. Depending on skill and experience, this may warrant climbers carrying boots, ice axe, and even crampons.

South side of the Grand Teton from the Middle Teton. 8/31/18  

Middle Teton from the Enclosure. 8/31/18


Owen-Spalding from the Enclosure. 8/31/18

LATE AUGUST STORM BLANKETS TETONS IN ICE AND SNOW - AUGUST 28, 2018

The last few days have brought wintry weather to the high country, depositing a significant amount of snow and rime ice on the high peaks. As of August 28, expect snow, ice and mixed conditions on any alpine rock climbs in the range above 10,000 feet. Although some climbs may dry out over the next few weeks depending on aspect and elevation, north-facing objectives will remain significantly more challenging for the remainder of the season, and popular climbs like the Exum Ridge and Owen Spalding will need ample time to recover from this last storm. With recent nighttime temperatures dipping below freezing this may be difficult to achieve at this point in the year. Continue to check the blog for any recent updates on route conditions.

Grand Teton, photo August 28, 2018