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I'm coming to the Grand Tetons April 5-8 and am interested in sleigh rides as well as observing the wildlife. I also plan on going to Yellowstone Park. I'm from northern Indiana, so the cold weather and snow won't bother me. How are the main roads as well as the snow amounts? Are the temps in the low to mid 30s?
Grand Tetons National Park generally only offers guided snowshoeing tours through the end of March. If there is enough snow it is possible the park may extend their tours. Please call (307) 739-3399 or for more information. You can also visit the following website for more information on cross country skiing and snowshoeing in Grand Tetons.
Sleigh rides are offered in the surrounding communities like Jackson Hole. The following sites are links to several concessioners who provide these services. You will have to check with them to determine whether or not they will still be offering these tours.
http://www.jacksonholewy.net/winter_recreation/sleigh_rides.php
- In Grand Teton check www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/roads.htm or call (307) 739-3614
I have yet to do any backpacking in Yellowstone. I love waterfalls so I'd backpack the southwest corner of the park. http://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/backcountryhiking.htm
I-15 is a major thoroughfare, so I expect that unless there are heavy snowfalls, you won't run into any closures. There are many routes into Bryce off of I-15, so you will have to look at a map to determine how scenic you want your course to be. It also depends on wether you are coming from points North or points South. Either direction, you will make your way to UT 12, and then to UT 63 (State Roads). 63 is the only thoroughfare through the park.
There are only ever brief closures in Bryce after heavy snowstorms. Otherwise, it is a year round park. If you want to check, you can find more information here, or call the visitors information hotline, 435.834.5322.
While all three parks are a lot to visit in ten days it can be done. Plan on at least one day of driving to get between Yellowstone and Glacier. To get the most out of your trip use the "Only a Day" link on ohranger.com for each park. These "Only a Day" links for Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Tetons provide a quick highlight of some of the main features in the park that you won't want to miss. To get the most out of your stay try to stay in the park. If you plan ahead there's no reason these three parks can't be accommodated in one trip.
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First, save money on entrance fees by picking up an "America The Beautiful - The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass" at parkpass.net. If you're age 62 or older, you're eligible for the Senior Pass.
In Utah You’ll be right in the heart of the Grand Circle, a collection of seven national parks, eight national monuments, numerous state parks, scenic byways, historical sites, prehistoric Indian ruins, colorful ghost towns and stunning geologic formations. Take some time to explore some of these places, including Zion, Canyonlands and Monument Valley. For more information on sights to see in the area, check out www.grandcircle.org and www.utah.com/nationalparks/grandcircle.htm. This article also offers some great tips!
Be sure to stop by and let us know how your trip goes!
You can find maps of all Yosemite snowshoe routes here. If you have time, you should include a stop a Mariposa Grove.
Yosemite is a great place to visit in the winter. If you're into skiing look into Yosemite's Badge Pass Ski area. If you're not into skiing, the park also offers, ice skating, bus tours and ranger walks and talks.
Winter is also the least busy and possibly most beautiful season to visit. If you get up early enough you may see Yosemite Falls frozen solid. Winter is also great time to view park wildlife.
The traffic between Grand Teton and Yellowstone is as unpredictable as the weather that time of year. While it'll likely be sunny, you may get the occasional snow shower. Similarly, you're just as likely to not encounter another car as you are to get in a bear or bison jam. Relax, slow down and enjoy the view.
In order to get to the south entrance, you'll need to first pass through Grand Teton National Park. The park entry fee allows you to spend a week in BOTH parks for $25. If you plan to visit multiple parks in the next month, consider investing in a America The Beautiful Federal Lands Pass, which offers unlimited visitation to all parks for you and your entire family (if you are in the same car) for $80. If you are a senior citizen, the you can purchase a senior pass for $10, which allows you to enter parks at no additional cost for the remainder of your life. All are great deals!
Have a safe trip and remember to slow down and enjoy the view.



