On Thursday, December 15th, both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks will be open to the public for winter season activities.
In Grand Teton NP, the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center (12 miles north of Jackson, Wyoming) will be open for winter hours (9am-5pm daily). For winter-sports enthusiasts, there is plenty to do, from snowshoeing to backcountry and cross country skiing to mountaineering. Keep in mind that permits will be required for all overnight trips in the backcountry. After the Christmas holiday, there will be ranger-led snowshoe hikes daily at 1:30pm. Previous experience with snowshoeing is not necessary, and snowshoes are provided (a donation of $5 is requested). If you’re planning on taking part in the ranger-led hikes, be sure to make a reservation by calling 307.739.3399.
In Yellowstone National Park, commercially-guided snowmobile and snowcoaches will begin to serve the public between the park’s South Entrance and Old Faithful. Travel beyond this area by commercially-guided vehicles will be subject to additional restrictions until the park has received more snow. In the coming weeks, officials will be developing a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to complete the long-term plan for winter-use in Yellowstone, with the hope that it will be available for public comment in early 2012.
There are a number of passes available to visit the parks:
- $5 Day Pass valid for one-day entry into Grand Teton
- $25 Seven-day Pass valid for single vehicle entry into Grand Teton and Yellowstone
- $50 Grand Teton/Yellowstone Annual Pass valid for one year entry into both parks
- $80 Interagency Annual Pass valid for one year entry to all federal land management fee areas
Read more in the press releases for Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks.
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