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.

MEMORIAL DAY MAY 28, 2012

Teewinot from Jenny Lake Ranger Station - 5/28/12

                                            

By this Memorial Day morning the Teton Range has received 1-3 feet of new snow above 9000 feet.  Over the last four days, snow has fallen with SW to NW winds in the 20’s to 40’s (mph).  This weather has created potentially hazardous winter conditions including a significant threat of new snow dry slab avalanches.  Over the next couple of weeks as the weather clears and temperatures warm, the wet loose avalanche activity will increase significantly.  Please contact the Jenny Lake Ranger Station at 307-739-3343 for the most current conditions.      

SPRING UPDATE - MAY 20, 2012

Teewinot & Mt Owen from Cascade Canyon - 5/20/12

The snowpack in the high mountains continues to consolidate with wet slides still occurring on steep slopes during warm afternoons.  The canyons generally have patchy snow low down that gradually turns into 100% snow cover in the upper reaches.  As a reminder, Baxter's Pinnacle remains closed due to nesting raptors until further notice (see April post below).


More detailed conditions information is beginning to become available in the Conditions Information links on the right, so check back often to see updates on your favorite canyon, pass, or peak.  The Jenny Lake Ranger Station will open at 8:00am on Saturday, May 26.  Stop in, say hi, and get the latest information on climbing and backcountry conditions from our knowledgeable staff of Climbing Rangers.

UPDATE.....MAY 10, 2012
Grizzly #610 and her two cubs were spotted at the Lupine Meadows Trailhead this afternoon!  Please be extra vigilant and follow all food storage regulations!  


BE BEAR AWARE - MAY 5, 2012

Bear #399 - Fall 2008

With the ever-retreating snowline and increasing available habitat, bears are continuing to roam far and wide in Grand Teton National Park.  There have been reports of recent sightings of both black and grizzly bears in the southern end of the Park.  Climbers and hikers should remain alert when traveling in the backcountry.  

With the increased activity of bears, appropriate precautions must be taken. Visitors are advised to carry bear spray, keep it easily accessible and know how to properly handle it. Backcountry hikers should exercise good judgment, stay alert, and follow these recommended safety precautions: make noise, travel in a group of three or more, and maintain a 100-yard distance from bears at all times.