Bears

That's a tough question to answer. Bears, which are omnivorous, are not natural hibernators. If there's a sufficient food supply—berries, insects, nuts, carrion— they'll stay active all winter. Approximately 1,500 bears live in the park (approximately two per square mile) and they inhabit all elevations. That said, it's more likely that you'll see bears at this time of year because the lush foliage common during the summer has thinned substantially. That holds true for Elk, too, which generally stay within Cataloochee year round.

This summer was especially wet, and recent heavy rains should ensure that waterfalls are running strong… so don't forget your camera!

Safe travels!

Visitation to Grand Teton National Park peaks during the summer but is also extremely popular during the transition to fall. After Labor Day, total visitation ebbs slightly; however, the type of visitor is drastically different. With kids back in school, you'll find that there are families and more DINKs (Dual Income No Kids), recent college graduates, empty nesters and baby boomers.

Teton Village is home to many fine properties and you shouldn't have a problem finding a room if you book in advance. We have a few favorites:

Hotel Terra is the first of a line of green hotels launched by the Terra Resort Group, Hotel Terra Jackson Hole offers the exceptional amenities and services expected from boutique hotels, combined with environmentally sustainable building and operating practices. The property is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified, placing it in an elite group of hotels in the United States. Hotel Terra pushes its efforts well beyond LEED criteria, however,  has taken a leadership role in defining eco-friendly efforts to preserve and protect the environment in its operations while still offering an opulent hotel experience for guests. Learn more about Hotel Terra and its commitment to the environment at www.hotelterrajacksonhole.com.

 Just around the corner from the Terra is the Snake River Lodge & Spa where you'll be warmly welcomed. The lodge, part of the Rock Resorts is rustically elegant and fits seamlessly with the Teton landscape. Recently renovated, Snake River Lodge & Spa boats beautifully appointed rooms and condomiums which will be a welcome retreat after a long day of hiking, skiing, golfing or exploring the Jackson Fall Arts Festival, which takes place from September 10-20 (www.jacksonholewy.com/events-fall-arts-festival.php). You'll look forward to relaxing in the property's indoor/outdoor heated pool, with cascading waterfalls, warmed walkways, a hot tub tucked into a steam-filled cave, and a sauna. Visit snakeriverlodge.rockresorts.com for more information.

Don't rule out staying in the park–Jenny Lodge is located across the water from majestic Cascade Canyon and offers an exclusive environment with 37 rustically elegant log cabins. The main lodge, a recently renovated log structure, has inviting sitting areas with books and games for guests to enjoy. As the only 4-diamond eco-resort in the Park, Jenny Lake Lodge is ideal for those who seek the finest service and lodging, while still enjoying a National Park vacation. Each of the rustically elegant cabin rooms are well appointed with hand-made quilts, down comforters, and unique Western charm. The cabins are open from early June to early October. Breakfast and dinner, along with horseback and bicycle riding, are included in the room rate. To book a room, visit http://www.gtlc.com/lodging/jenny-lake-lodge-overview.aspx

There is a Ranger in the Bear Management department at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National park.  You can ask him your question with the specific tag number, and he may be able to tell you more about your new friend! 

daniel_gammons@nps.gov 

You're getting in just under the wire to have your own campfire in the park (at designated locations) as the last day permitted is October 15th.  In terms of hosted NPS campfires and Ranger campfire talks, you'll have to check with the park itself for an updated schedule.  The best number to call is: (209) 372-0200; press 3 then 5.

Have a great trip!

Yes, you can find out more about the animals in the park on our Yellowstone Flora & Fauna page. For checklists of  mammals and birds that live in the park, visit the NPS Yellowstone Wildlife page.

Generally speaking, yes, assuming that you follow the rules of the park. Venturing into the backcountry, with or without bears, always comes with certain risks, which can be minimized by following basic safety procedures. The number one rules with respect to bears apply to food and anything with a scent. Bears have super sharp sense of smell (they can smell through a tin can), so you need to be sure to store food outside of your tent. For a complete list of the rules, check out the following link to a section about bears and food storage at Yosemite: 

http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/bearcanisters.htm  

Also, there's a short video of how to be safe in bear country on the home page of OhRanger.com.  Have fun in the park and be sure to share your experience with the rest of the park-loving community at OhRanger.com.

Camping in bear country is absolutely "safe" so long as you properly pack your supplies and dispose of waste.  Here's an interesting video clip of what can happen if you don't!  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9T9Il_Q3YY