Wolves

If you know you were watching Wolf 527, then yes, it was the same one. Otherwise, it's hard to say. Yellowstone is home to more than 100 wolves in 12 packs. Wolf 527 was an alpha female that helped form the park's Cottonwood Pack. Before she, her mate — the pack’s alpha male — and her daughter were shot this month, wolf 527 was wearing a radio collar that enabled researchers to track and study her and her pack. 

You can read more about Wolf 527 here.

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, wolf packs live within territories, which they defend from other wolves. While there have been reports of wolf packs killing other wolves that enter into their territory, we have not heard of any wolf packs in national parks being wiped out by other wolves.

You can read more about Yellowstone's wolf population here.

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