LOCATED IN WYOMING

Located in northwestern Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park protects stunning mountain scenery and a diverse array of wildlife. Adorned with glaciers and snowfields, the Teton Range is unquestionably the park's central feature. As the mountains abruptly rise above the sagebrush valley of Jackson Hole, they create a rugged, picturesque backdrop. Photographed by millions of visitors each year, this world-renowned western scenery also offers opportunities for a variety of recreational pursuits.

A diverse array of wildlife complements the impressive mountain landscape. Elk, moose, pronghorn, mule deer, and bison are commonly seen in the park. Black bears are common in forested areas, while grizzlies are occasionally observed in the northern part of the park. More than 300 species of birds can be observed, including bald eagles, peregrine falcons, trumpeter swans, sandhill cranes, and ravens. There are more than 900 species of flowering plants and 60 species of mammals such as marmots, snowshoe hares, pikas, and chipmunks.

Unspoiled lakes and the winding Snake River add to the natural beauty of the area. A 50-mile-long section of river meanders through the park on its 1,056-mile-long journey to the Pacific Ocean, providing habitat for one of the last wild, inland populations of native cutthroat trout. River channels create wetlands that support beavers, otters, white pelicans, ospreys, and bald eagles.

The park preserves a rich cultural history. The Teton Range was sacred to Native Americans who made seasonal visits. Fur trappers, homesteaders, and ranchers pioneered an independent life in this rigorous environment. Conservationists aspired to preserve the grandeur of the landscape for future generations; and modern-day outdoor enthusiasts seek adventure and inspiration. About 4 million people visit the park annually.

DID YOU KNOW

• The highest peak in the Teton Range is the Grand Teton at an elevation of 13,770 feet. The range also includes 12 peaks over 12,000 feet and 12 mountain glaciers.
• The coldest temperature ever recorded in the park was -63° F. Snow blankets the Teton landscape from early November to late April with approximately 400 inches of yearly snowfall in the mountains and 175 inches on the valley floor.
• The park's semi-arid climate brings summertime highs of 93° F and 20 inches of average annual rainfall.
• The park covers 310,000 acres and includes the former Jackson Hole National Monument.
• Grand Teton National Park has no poisonous snakes or spiders.
• Since 1996, seven bears have been destroyed in this park because they became too accustomed to eating human food and posed a danger to visitors. Do not feed the bears

ATTRACTIONS IN THE GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK

• Springtime in Jackson Hole is for the birds; each weekend in April, you can join a naturalist on an early morning trek to observe the unique mating rituals of sage grouse. Spring also means that snowplows begin to uncover the Teton Park Road. Once plowed, this road opens to non-motorized use only (walking, rollerblading, and bicycling) for the month of April. The road opens to vehicle traffic on May 1st.
• Summertime is the most popular time to visit and experience the many recreational activities. Educational opportunities for adults and children alike occur each day and evening as park naturalists conduct interpretive hikes, talks and evening slide programs. To answer all your questions, rangers staff four visitor centers and an Indian Arts Museum. Summer activities include climbing, hiking, backpacking, camping, wildlife observation, fishing, horseback riding, bicycling, boating, rafting, and photography.
• Fall is a special time for visitors and wildlife. Aspens and cottonwoods turn golden yellow and crowds thin, as elk begin to bugle and gather in harems during their mating season. Each September evening, naturalists lead caravans of visitors to view wildlife. Hiking and photography are favored activities during this "short but sweet" season.
• Winter is a time of silence and pristine splendor. Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on the Teton Park Road and nearby trails offers a chance to experience both the beauty and rigors of the season. Ranger-led snowshoe hikes are offered each day, except Wednesdays, from December 26 to mid-March. This free activity provides snowshoes and basic instruction for beginners and experienced alike. Call (307) 739-3399 for reservations.

ATTRACTIONS IN WYOMING

• The Devils Tower National Monument rises 1,267 feet above the meandering Belle Fourche River. Rock climbing at Devils Tower is a popular recreational sport. The tower is acclaimed as one of the premier crack climbing areas in North America.
• Fossil Butte National Monument is is located just 15 miles west of the town of Kemmerer in southwestern Wyoming. This 50-million year old lake bed is one of the richest fossil localities in the world.
• The Black Hills National Forest is located in southwestern South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming.
• Bighorn National Forest is located in north-central Wyoming. The Bighorns are a sister range of the Rocky Mountains located half-way between Mt. Rushmore and Yellowstone National Park.