Thursday, December 31, 2015

GTNP Foundation Gives $2,780,000 to Grand Teton National Park in 2015

Grand Teton National Park Foundation, the primary fundraising partner for Grand Teton National Park, gifted $2,780,000 to the park in the past twelve months to fund projects and programming in Grand Teton. Through private support, the Foundation enabled an extensive list of visitor service, education, and improvement projects and assisted the park in offering high-quality interpretation, recreation, and education to visitors. The Foundation funded the work entirely through generous gifts from the organization’s national network of donors.

The projects spanned a wide range of enhancements and education that connect visitors to Grand Teton and improve resources:

· The Foundation celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Youth Conservation Program—nearly 200 students have participated on this teen trail crew.

· College interns gained park work experience through NPS Academy, a model career-prep program that began in Grand Teton and expanded across the country. 350 students and many national parks have participated to date.

· The Foundation’s Pura Vida program offered extensive outdoor learning, leadership training, and wilderness recreation to local Latino youth.

· Forty-six bear boxes were purchased for installation at various frontcountry campsites and picnic areas throughout the park.

· Construction at Jenny Lake as part of the Foundation’s Inspiring Journeys capital campaign is underway. Summer improvements focused on the trails and bridges between Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.

· Money raised for Mormon Row funded the stabilization and repair of the T.A. Moulton Barn. In addition, a bus turnaround, improved parking, and a bathroom were added to enhance the visitor experience at this historic site.

· The Foundation contracted with a local private groomer to provide regular grooming of the Nordic ski trail between Bradley-Taggart Trailhead and Signal Mountain on Teton Park Road.

· Funding for the wildlife program supported mountain goat monitoring, wolf research, animal migration studies, black and grizzly bear conservation, wildlife habitat restoration, and native fish habitat improvements.

“It has been an incredible year for the Foundation and we are thrilled to fund work across many areas that are important to the park and to visitors,” Foundation President Leslie Mattson said. “It was exciting to witness the work at Jenny Lake this summer, and we were able to connect with many friends and partners. We are confident of good things to come in FY16, as we’ll also be celebrating the National Park Service centennial and the completion of Inspiring Journeys — our capital campaign for Jenny Lake.”

For more information on the Grand Teton National Park Foundation, please click here.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
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HikingintheSmokys.com

Tuesday, December 29, 2015

Celebrate Winter Trails Day in the Flathead Valley on Jan. 9th

The Flathead Community of Resource Educators (CORE), a network of individuals and organizations working together to increase awareness and understanding about the natural, historical and cultural resources of the Flathead Region, is celebrating Winter Trails on Saturday, January 9 with several free outdoor activities.

These free activities are a great way to enjoy the outdoors in winter and discover the fitness and social benefits of snowshoeing in Northwest Montana. All activities are suitable for beginners and families. Be prepared with warm clothing and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots.

A snowshoe walk on the Flathead National Forest, hosted by the Swan Lake Ranger District, Flathead Audubon and Foy’s to Blacktail Trails, will be held at the Blacktail Mountain cross-country ski trails near Lakeside, 10a.m. to Noon. Participants may bring snowshoes, or a limited number of children and adult shoes will be available by reservation. Please meet at the upper trailhead parking area. Reservations are not required. For more information or to reserve snowshoes, please contact the Swan Lake Ranger District at 837-7500.

Explore Lone Pine State Park on snowshoes. From 10a.m. to 5p.m., park visitors can borrow snowshoes and explore the many park trails. Adult and children’s snowshoes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A ranger-led snowshoe walk takes place at 11am. Please contact the park at 755-2706 for more information and to reserve snowshoes for the 11am walk.

Ranger-led snowshoe hikes at Glacier National Park will take place at 10:30am and 2:00pm. Each hike will last approximately two hours and reservations are not required. Snowshoes are available for hike participants. Visitors need to purchase a park entrance pass. Please meet at the Apgar Visitor Center. Call 888-7939 for more information.

For more information about local events and Winter Trails visit, www.wintertrails.org.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Saturday, December 19, 2015

The Milford Track

As winter descends on the Northern Hemisphere, hiking season is just beginning to hit full stride for our neighbors to the south. Earlier this week one of our website visitors sent us a link to a video they published that documents their trek along the Milford Track in New Zealand.

Considered by many to be one of the "The Finest Walks in the World", the Milford Track traverses through the heart of New Zealand's wild fiord country. Over the course of five days trekkers will hike 34 miles through rain forests, wetlands, and over alpine passes, while spending evenings in comfortable, remote wilderness lodges.

Hope you enjoy this vicarious hike!





Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Friday, December 18, 2015

Glacier Implements New Backcountry Camping Reservation System

The advance reservation system for backcountry camping in Glacier National Park is being upgraded and changed for 2016. The new online application and payment system will replace the advance reservation lottery system that has been in place since 2003. The new system will offer earlier reservation submittal dates, more choices to customize itineraries, and a first-come, first-served reservation system.

The new online system is anticipated to go live on March 15th, 8 a.m. MST for groups of 1-8 campers. This is one month earlier than the previous system.

A separate application for large groups, 9-12 campers, will be available online with an anticipated March 1st start date. The park issues up to five large group reservations per year.

No applications will be accepted in January as the past system allowed. Applicants should expect a one month period of time between application submittal and notification of permit status.

The online reservation application will look similar to the old paper form, and will include links to application tutorials, park backcountry maps, and additional backcountry campground information.

All advance reservation applications and processing fees will be submitted using the Pay.Gov website. Each application will have a non-refundable $10 processing fee and each successful request will have a $30 fee. The camping fee per night has increased from $5 to $7 per night. All backcountry permit revenue is used to fund the management and staffing of the park's backcountry permit offices and program.

The new advance reservation system will be completely online and the backcountry office will no longer accept fax, mail, or in-person advanced reservation applications. Successful applicants will still be required to pick up their permit and view a backcountry orientation video before beginning their backcountry adventure.

Approximately half the backcountry campsites will still be available on a walk-in basis, up to 24 hours in advance.

Complete application instructions will be available on the park's website.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
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Wyoming State Park First Day Hikes partners with NPS to kickoff 100th Anniversary

In what is becoming an increasingly popular New Year’s Day activity, Wyoming State Parks, Historic Sites and Trails provides “First Day Hikes” – a perfect way for Wyoming residents to celebrate the New Year outdoors.

Eleven New Year’s Day guided hikes held at state park and historic site venues statewide will be held in conjunction with similar hikes held in all 50 states; a part of the America’s State Parks First Day Hikes initiative. Also, this year, First Day Hikes is a nationwide kickoff to the National Park Service’s 100 year anniversary. As part of that partnership, uniformed National Park Service staff will participate in some of the First Day Hike events.

Also this year, participants in this year’s hikes have an opportunity to win a Mountain Hardware Micro Ratio Down Jacket or State Parks and Historic Sites Annual Day Use permits. Each venue will give-away a day use permit, and names of all participants will be included in a January 15 drawing for the jacket.

This is the fifth consecutive year Wyoming is offering the First Day Hikes program. Last year, 327 people participated hiking more than 460 total miles.

Park staff and volunteers will lead the hikes, which average one to two miles or longer depending on the state park or historic site. Details about hike locations, difficulty and length, terrain and tips regarding proper clothing are listed on the America’s State Parks website. Visit www.naspd.org to find a First Day Hike nearest you.

In Wyoming, hikes will be offered at the following locations and times:

Bear River State Park - Short 2.5 mile nature hike along the Bear River. Hike distance will vary upon participant’s abilities. Meet at the Visitor Center. Begin at 10 a.m.

Curt Gowdy State Park – Up to four mile hike on a trail to be determined. Meet at Aspen Grove Trail head at 1 p.m.

Edness K. Wilkins State Park – There will be two walks. One will be wheelchair accessible and the other will be on natural surface on the nature trail. Each 2 miles. Begin at 10 a.m.

Fort Bridger State Historic Site – one mile hike/walk around the historic site. Meet at entrance booth at 1 p.m. The hike is mostly level with no inclines.

Fort Fred Steele State Historic Site – up to two-mile hike, meet at bridge tender’s house parking lot at 10 a.m.

Glendo – Two mile hike beginning at the Dam Overlook Trail Head. Meet at 10 a.m.

Guernsey State Park – 1.5 – 2 mile hike, start at 10 a.m.

Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site - 1.25 mile hike on Nature Trail and park road. Meet in main parking area at 10 a.m. Sneak peak at new visitor center displays and exhibits.

Keyhole State Park - starting at the Headquarters building and hiking to the Tatanka group shelter and back (approximately 1 mile) 10 a.m.

Sinks Canyon - Sinks Canyon hike will start at the Nature Trail Parking Lot in the Popo Agie Campground and proceed approximately 2 miles along the Canyon Loop trail. The start time will 10 a.m. Refreshments will be served in the Sage Yurt in Popo Agie Campground upon completion.

Trail End –Visitors and their leashed pets are invited to meet at the East Entrance to the Kendrick Mansion (400 Clarendon Avenue) for a brisk urban hike through Sheridan's historic Nielsen Heights neighborhood. The hike should take about an hour and will end at the Kendrick Mansion for hot beverages and light snacks.

Participants of all hikes are urged to wear adequate clothing, coffee and hot chocolate will be provided, Bonn Fire at most locations, this is a kids and family friendly event, entry fee to participating parks will be waived. Leashed dogs are welcome. All events are subject to change. RSVPs are requested but not required. Please RSVP by emailing Paul.Gritten@wyo.gov.

WYOutside, a coalition of public and private organizations with a shared stake in promoting recreation to children and families, is a sponsor of the First Day Hikes.

For more information, please call the Wyoming Division of State Parks, Historic Sites and Trails at 307-777-6323.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
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Thursday, December 17, 2015

Winter Season Activities Underway in Grand Tetons

Winter season operations have begun in Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. The winter season brings many unique opportunities for enjoyment of the park and parkway, which are open year-round, though visitors should be aware that most visitor services are closed for the season.

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities in both the park and parkway. Many winter trails are skier tracked, but not groomed. The Teton Park Road, Moose-Wilson Road, and Signal Mountain Summit Road become backcountry trails in winter and are open to non-mechanized use only. The Teton Park Road will be machine groomed from the Taggart Lake parking area to the Signal Mountain Lodge junction for cross-country and skate skiing approximately two times per week thanks to generous support from the Grand Teton National Park Foundation. Grooming is scheduled to take place each Tuesday and Friday through March 15, 2016, though this schedule is dependent on snow and weather conditions. For grooming updates, call the road condition information line at 307.739.3682.

Skiers and snowshoers are not restricted to established trails. However for protection of wildlife, park visitors are required to observe the following public closures during winter: Closed December 1 to April 1—Static Peak, Prospectors Mountain and Mount Hunt. Closed December 15 to April 1—Snake River floodplain from Moran to Menor's Ferry near Moose, Buffalo Fork River floodplain within the park, Uhl Hill, and Kelly Hill.

To obtain trail maps and closure locations, click here.

Additionally, visitors to the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway are reminded that swimming or bathing in a thermal pool or stream that has waters originating entirely from a thermal spring or pool is prohibited. "Hot-potting" is permitted in any creeks or pools not solely of thermal origin such as Polecat Creek.

Ranger-led snowshoe hikes begin Saturday, December 26. The snowshoe tours begin at the Taggart Lake Trailhead at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday each week. The two-hour guided walks offer an opportunity to learn about snow science and winter ecology. Previous experience is not necessary, and historic wooden snowshoes are available for rent for a suggested donation of $5. Reservations are required and can be made at 307.739.3399.

A Single Day Pass is available to winter visitors at the Moose, Moran and Granite Canyon entrance stations. This winter-season permit allows a one-day entry into Grand Teton at a cost of $10 per vehicle. The single day pass is valid only in Grand Teton and cannot be used for entry into Yellowstone. Winter visitors may also choose to purchase one of the following other options for entry:

• $30 Seven-day pass valid for single vehicle entry into Grand Teton only

• $60 Grand Teton Annual Pass valid for one year entry into Grand Teton only

• $80 Interagency Annual Pass valid for one year entry to all federal land management fee areas All park visitor centers are closed for the winter season until the Craig Thomas Discovery &Visitor Center reopens on March 4, 2016. In the absence of a winter visitor center, park staff will be available to answer questions and provide park information by phone at 307.739.3399, Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Another alternative for winter visitor information about the park, parkway, and greater Jackson Hole area is the Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center in Jackson, Wyoming.

Backcountry users and mountaineers planning to stay overnight in the park must get a camping permit before their trip. Winter camping permits can be obtained in person at the front desk of the park headquarters building in Moose Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. During weekends and holidays, persons wishing to get a permit must call 307.739.3301. The general permit information line, 307.739.3309, will be staffed Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For complete information about winter activities in the park and parkway, please click here.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Is a trek to Everest Base Camp in your future?

Is a trek to Everest Base Camp in your future? Perhaps after watching this short video you might be enticed to put this epic trip on your bucket list!

Ian Taylor, one of the newest advertisers on our Rocky Mountain, Glacier and Grand Teton hiking websites, recently sent me a link to one of his videos showing what it's like to trek to Everest Base Camp.

To date, Ian Taylor Trekking boasts a 99% success rate on this trek. That's important to know, especially when you consider that this round-trip trek takes 16 days to complete. No doubt, this trip isn't for everyone - trekkers will reach heights above 18,000 feet after ascending to the summit of Kala Pattar on day 11.

In addition to Everest Base Camp, Ian also offers guided climbs on peaks in the Mt. Everest region, as well as Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa, Mont Blanc in France, Denali in Alaska, and Mt. Rainier in Washington, among many other trips.



For more information on this awesome trek, as well as all the other guided trips Ian offers, please click here.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Yellowstone's Winter Season Starts Today

Yellowstone National Park will open to the public for motorized oversnow travel this morning, December 15th.

Beginning at 8:00 a.m., visitors will be able to travel the park’s interior roads on commercially guided snowmobiles and snowcoaches from the North, West, and South Entrances. Visitors who have proper permits can also participate in the Non-commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program. Travel through the park’s East Entrance over Sylvan Pass is scheduled to begin December 22nd.

The road from the park’s North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana, through Mammoth Hot Springs and on to Cooke City, Montana, outside the park’s Northeast Entrance is open to wheeled vehicle travel all year. The Geyser Grill, the Bear Den Gift Shop, and the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center open for the season on December 15. The Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins and the Obsidian Dining Room open on December 20.

The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, dining room, and gift shop will open for the season on December 18th. The Yellowstone General Store, medical clinic, campground, post office and the Albright Visitor Center at Mammoth Hot Springs are open all year, as are the 24-hour gasoline pumps at Mammoth Hot Springs and Tower Junction.

Communities surrounding Yellowstone are open year-round, and local businesses offer a wide range of winter recreation opportunities. Extensive information and assistance for planning a visit to Yellowstone during the winter can be found here.

Park staff members will continue to monitor road conditions and weather forecasts that can have an impact on roadways and guided oversnow travel operations. Weather during the winter season is extremely unpredictable in Yellowstone and road closures or delays can occur with little or no warning. Visitors should come prepared, carry personal emergency survival equipment in their vehicles, and dress appropriately for outside activities in extremely cold weather.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Discover the Joys of Winter Hiking

Many hikers tend to run from the woods as soon as the first snow flakes begin to fall. However, winter is great time to hit the trail. Not only are the crowds gone, but many parks show off their true beauty after a fresh snowfall. With just a little more attention to detail beforehand, anyone can have a safe and enjoyable hike during the winter.

Although it might feel quite frigid at the trailhead, your body will begin generating plenty of heat after just 10 or 15 minutes of walking. The best thing you can do to keep the cold out is to dress in layers: a base layer that wicks moisture off your body, a fleece jacket for insulating warmth, and a shell to keep you dry and to keep the wind from penetrating your core. Most importantly, dressing in layers allows you to adjust your attire as you heat-up or cool-off. When dressing for a winter hike, always remember the adage: cotton kills! Never wear anything made of cotton while hiking in the backcountry. Once wet, cotton no longer insulates you from the cold. Moreover, it wicks heat away from your body and puts you at risk of becoming hypothermic.

Some people are prone to cold feet in the winter. One of the keys to keeping your feet warm is to make sure they stay dry. Wear a good pair of hiking socks, made of wool blends or synthetic fabrics, that wick moisture away from your skin, retain heat when wet, and dry faster if they become wet. I always keep an extra pair in my pack in case the ones I’m wearing do get wet. (Expert Advice: How to Choose Socks) You should also wear above-the-ankle hiking boots which help to keep snow away from your feet. You may want to consider wearing gaiters, especially if there are several inches of snow on the ground.

To round-out your winter apparel, don’t forget about a good pair of gloves, a ski cap and maybe even a balaclava.

If the snow is too deep in the mountains, consider hiking at lower elevations, or even wearing snowshoes. If you expect a lot of ice, especially in areas where there might be steep drop-offs, consider bringing crampons specifically made for hiking. These are sometimes referred to as traction devices, or in-step crampons, which you can either strap-on or slide onto your boots.

Trekking poles are another excellent choice for helping to maintain your balance on sections of trail with slick ice and snow.

After outfitting yourself with the proper winter gear, hikers will then need to focus on staying hydrated and properly fueled while out on the trail. Hiking in the cold, especially in snow, burns more calories. By some estimates, hikers can burn as much as 50% more calories when compared to similar distances and terrain in the summer. By not consuming enough calories while on the trail you become prone to getting cold faster. Make sure you bring plenty of high-energy snacks with you to munch on periodically throughout your hike. Watch out for foods that can freeze solid, such as some power bars. Or, instead of storing in your backpack, put some snacks inside your fleece jacket. Your body should generate enough heat to prevent them from freezing.

Although it may sound counter-intuitive, it can actually be easier to experience dehydration in the winter, versus hiking in the summer. Dehydration can occur faster in cold weather because the air is much drier. Moreover, dehydration can be dangerous because it can accelerate hypothermia and frostbite. Make sure you bring plenty of liquids with you, and drink often while on the trail.

If you’re storing water bottles in your backpack during a very cold day, you may need to insulate them to prevent them from freezing. An old wool sock will work in this case. Also, you may want to turn the bottle upside down to prevent the water from freezing at the neck. If you plan to be out for several hours, consider bringing a thermos containing a hot drink, or even soup.

Other winter hazards hikers need to be aware of include hiking in steep terrain that’s prone to avalanches, or a storm that covers the trail with fresh snow, thus making navigation difficult. You should always carry a topographical map and a compass with you in case you ever need help finding your way back to the trailhead if you were to become lost.

Other gear to bring with you includes a first aid kit, firestarter, waterproof matches, a pocket knife, an emergency blanket and maybe even a bivy sack.

Finally, let someone know where you’re going, when you’ll be back, and who to call if they don’t hear back from you at a specified time.

With a little care and preparation up front, anyone can discover the joys of winter hiking.






Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Friday, December 11, 2015

Yellowstone Publishes 2014 Wolf Project Annual Report

Yellowstone National Park recently published the latest Wolf Project Annual Report for 2014 on their website.

According to the report, there were at least 104 wolves in 11 packs, including nine breeding pairs, living primarily in Yellowstone National Park during December 2014. From 2009 to 2014, wolf numbers have fluctuated between 83 and 104 wolves, and 6 to 9 breeding pairs. Pack size in 2014 averaged 9 wolves (range = 2 to 14). Forty pups survived to year-end, including 17 in northern Yellowstone and 23 in the interior of the park. An average of 4.4 pups per pack (82%) survived in the nine packs that had pups. For the first time, the size of a wolf pack was estimated via genetic sampling methodology, using scat samples from a den site.

The number of wolves in the park increased by 9 over the prior year, when 95 wolves were counted in 2013. Wolf numbers reached their highest count within the park in 2003, when roughly 175 wolves were identified.

Although wolf packs once roamed from the Arctic tundra to Mexico, loss of habitat and extermination programs led to their demise throughout most of the United States by early in the 1900s. In 1973, the US Fish and Wildlife Service listed the northern Rocky Mountain wolf as an endangered species and designated Greater Yellowstone as one of three recovery areas. From 1995 to 1997, 41 wild wolves from Canada and northwest Montana were released in Yellowstone.

According to the park website, an estimated 400–450 wolves live within the entire Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

To read the full report, please click here.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Glacier Backcountry Chalet Reservations to Change in 2016

For those of you who are wishing to stay at either the Sperry Chalet or Granite Park Chalet in Glacier National Park this upcoming summer, you may want to note that the reservation system will be changing this year. A recent posting on their blog states that the chalets will only accept reservations through their website from now on:
Longtime fans and friends of the chalets will notice some changes in how we take reservations for the 2016 season. We are working with the National Park Service to make sure the process is as fair and accessible as it can possibly be. The chalets are small and popular hotels in Glacier and there is sure to be a high demand. Here is some info that can help you out:

January 11 is the date we begin accepting 2016 reservations. The office will open at 8:00 AM mountain time zone. Any early requests will be discarded.
You may also want to note that reservations are on a first come first served basis:
First come first served will be strictly enforced. The order requests are put into our database is the order we will process them. Using the form on our website will be the fastest and easiest way to get onto that list.
For more information on this new process, I highly recommend reading the entire blog posting. Hikers may also want to note that both chalets are outstanding destinations for day hikes. Also, both chalets offers snacks and water for day hikers.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Moose-Wilson Corridor Draft Plan-EIS Public Review and Comment Period Extended Through January 30th

Grand Teton National Park Service has extended the public review and comment period for the Moose-Wilson Corridor Draft Comprehensive Management Plan / Environmental Impact Statement (Draft Plan/EIS) through January 30, 2016. The comment period, which began on October 29, was initially scheduled to end on December 29. The extension brings the total public review and comment period to 93 days.

While the NPS is working to complete the planning effort in an accelerated timeframe, the planning team determined that it was important to allow additional time at this step in the process. "We are looking for substantive and thoughtful feedback that will help us make a well informed final decision," said Superintendent David Vela. "This extension beyond the upcoming holiday season will help support these interests."

The planning team will host an informational and interactive public open house tomorrow, December 9th, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Teton County Library in Jackson, Wyoming. Those attending will have the opportunity to learn more about the Draft Plan/EIS, ask questions about the alternatives and the analysis used to identify the preferred, and provide feedback.

While all public comments are informative, the planning team is particularly interested in feedback regarding the accuracy and adequacy of the information and analysis presented in the Draft Plan/EIS. The planning team is looking for any new information, suggestions, or ideas that will improve the analysis and ultimately strengthen the Plan/EIS. Once a Record of Decision is signed in the fall of 2016, the document will guide future management of the corridor.

Hikers could be directly impacted, depending on which plan is ultimately adopted by the park. In particular, three of the four options under consideration could impact the current location of the Death Canyon Trailhead. I spelled out those plans in a post published on 10/30/15.

The Draft Plan/EIS is available for viewing and download on the NPS Planning, Environment and Public Comment website at go.nps.gov/mwplan under the "Documents" tab. Those wishing to comment can provide their thoughts electronically by selecting "Open for Comment" on the website. Comments can also be submitted by standard mail to Grand Teton National Park, ATTN: Moose-Wilson Planning Team, PO Drawer 170, Moose, WY, 83012-0170, by hand delivery to park headquarters in Moose, or during the open house event. Public comments and the names of those making them may be released to the public at any time in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

National Parks Announce Free Admission on 16 Days in 2016

The National Park Service turns 100 years old in 2016 and wants everyone to celebrate! To help with the centennial celebration, all national parks will be waiving their entrance fees on 16 days in 2016. The 16 entrance fee-free days for 2016 will be:

• January 18 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• April 16 through 24 – National Park Week
• August 25 through 28 – National Park Service Birthday (and following weekend)
• September 24 – National Public Lands Day
• November 11 – Veterans Day

To honor the National Park Service’s centennial, the National Park Foundation has joined the National Park Service to launch a public engagement campaign called Find Your Park to help all Americans discover all the things that national parks can be. Visit FindYourPark.com for a list of Centennial special events across the country and to learn how to discover, explore, recreate, be inspired, or simply have fun in national parks.

Usually, 127 of the 409 National Park Service sites charge entrance fees that range from $3 to $30. The entrance fee waiver for the fee-free days does not cover amenity or user fees for things like camping, boat launches, transportation, or special tours.

To continue the national park adventure beyond these fee free days, the $80 America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Pass allows unlimited entrance to more than 2,000 sites, including all national parks, throughout the year. There are also a variety of free or discounted passes available for senior citizens, current military members, fourth grade students, and disabled citizens.

On August 25, 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed the act that created the National Park Service “to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for future generations.”

Today, the National Park System includes more than 84 million acres and is comprised of 409 sites with 28 different designations, including national park, national historical park, national monument, national recreation area, national battlefield, and national seashore. Collectively, these sites contain more than 18,000 miles of trails, 27,000 historic and prehistoric structures, 247 species of threatened and endangered species, and 167 million museum items.

Last year, almost 293 million people visited national parks. Those visitors spent $15.7 billion in local communities which supported 277,000 jobs and had a $29.7 billion effect on the economy.

The fee free days gives hikers the chance to visit several of the crown jewels in our national park system, including Rocky Mountain, Glacier, or Grand Teton National Park.Of course the Great Smoky Mountains, the most visited national park, never charges a fee.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Monday, December 7, 2015

Congress Passes Funding Increase For National Park Roadways

National park roadways are slated to receive an 18% increase in funding from the recently passed Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), a non-profit advocacy group, praised Congress for including the increase, which will help fund the repair and maintenance of roads, bridges, and transportation systems within America’s national parks.

“Yellowstone, Great Smoky Mountains and so many national parks need substantial funding to maintain and improve their roadways. This bill takes a major step forward toward repairing important roads, bridges, and transit systems to ensure visitors can enjoy national parks with their families for years to come,” said Laura Loomis, NPCA’s Deputy Vice President of Government Affairs. “Congress is heading in the right direction toward addressing the costly backlog of road projects.”

The FAST Act authorizes federal highway programs for five years and during the life of this law ramps up the annual funding guarantee to the National Park Service from $268 million to $300 million through the Federal Lands Transportation Program. Overall, the National Park Service will receive an additional $220 million over the span of the five-year bill. Under the previous law, the National Park Service received an annual funding guarantee of $240 million.

Additionally, the new legislation authorizes up to $100 million annually for the Nationally Significant Federal Lands and Tribal Projects Program designed to address exceptionally large repair projects such as replacement of the Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone National Park.

In total, the National Park Service manages roughly 10,000 miles of roadways, which is a greater distance than a roundtrip drive between Washington, DC and Anchorage, Alaska.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Friday, December 4, 2015

State Trails Advisory Committee Meeting - Open to the Public

Montana State Parks announced yesterday that the citizen Montana State Trails Advisory Committee (STAC) will hold a meeting on Wednesday, December 9th, from 1:00-5:00 in the Fish, Wildlife & Parks Regional Office, located at 3201 Spurgin Road in Missoula.

The committee will advise staff on a number of trail issues, including FY2016 Recreational Trails Program guidelines; reauthorization of Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21); alternative funding sources for development and maintenance of trails; and miscellaneous trail-related topics. State Trails Advisory Committee members represent both motorized and non-motorized trail user groups and provide advice and assistance for the Recreational Trails Program.

The meeting is open to the public. For more information contact: Beth R. Shumate, Trails Program Manager at (406) 444-4585 or bshumate@mt.gov.

The Montana Recreational Trails Program provides grant funding to support trail construction, trail maintenance and grooming efforts, as well as trail-related education so enthusiasts can enjoy trails throughout Montana.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Thursday, December 3, 2015

Montana State Parks Celebrates the New Year with First Day Hikes Across the State

Montana State Parks will sponsor free, guided hikes in 8 state parks across the state on New Year’s Day 2016 as part of America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative. America’s State Parks First Day Hikes offer individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike on Friday, January 1, 2016 at a state park close to home. First Day Hikes offer a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family.

“Last year, we hosted a record-breaking 41,000 people who hiked 72,442 miles in our state parks across the country when we launched America’s State Parks First Day Hikes,” said Priscilla Geigis, President of the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD). “Think of it as the start of a new and healthy lifestyle, for the whole family. Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling, join us at one of America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.”

Montana State Parks boast a variety of beautiful settings for year-round outdoor recreation, and each First Day Hike will offer an opportunity to explore the unique natural and cultural treasures close to home. Park staff and volunteers will lead the hikes, which average one to two miles or longer depending on the state park.

This year, participants can enjoy hikes at Cooney State Park, First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park, Missouri Headwaters State Park, Lone Pine State Park, Makoshika State Park, Milltown State Park, Placid Lake State Park and Travelers’ Rest State Park. For more details about First Day Hikes at a Montana State Park near you visit: http://stateparks.mt.gov/calendar/.

First Day Hikes originated over 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Massachusetts. The program was launched to promote both healthy lifestyles throughout the year and year round recreation at state parks. Last year marked the first time all 50 state park systems have joined together to sponsor First Day Hikes. For more information about First Day Hikes throughout the United States, visit www.naspd.org.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Trail Restoration Between Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point Near Completion

Below is a short video from the Grand Teton National Park Foundation that announces the near completion of the trail restoration project between Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point in Grand Teton National Park. According to the Foundation website, crews have built over 1,300 square feet of stone masonry dry-stacked walls, 628 lineal feet of single tier wall, and 224 steps along this stretch of trail that was originally built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

According to GTNPF spokesperson, Maddy Jacobson, there's still a little bit more work that has to be completed on this section of trail, however, pending winter and spring snowfall amounts, the trail should be open to hikers by late June 2016.

During the 2016 season, backcountry construction efforts will focus on restoration of the trail on the south side of Cascade Creek that leads to Hidden Falls, the Hidden Falls viewing area, as well as improvements to the west boat dock area. At this point the park is still finalizing plans with regards to closures, as well as possible ideas for alternative viewpoints. Hikers will continue to have access to the popular hike into Cascade Canyon from the west boat dock next year.



The on-going rehabilitation and construction work is part of the Jenny Lake Renewal project. The project is funded through a public-private partnership initiative with the Grand Teton National Park Foundation.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com