REXBURG—Winter in the Eastern Idaho area has entered with intensity, and with Grand Teton National Park right next door, winter activities are available to all.
Roads are now snowed over, requiring many to be plowed different times of the week. Teton Park Rd. can only be plowed three times a week on the following days: Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. With only few roads open in both the Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, it is important to be checking the weather reports and road closures for each park.
With the changing seasons, it is important to keep in mind the local wildlife, as bighorn sheep will be surviving in surrounding areas for the winter. Dogs are asked to be kept on leashes, and disturbances from winter sports are asked to be avoided for the sake of the sheep. It is recommended to give the sheep at least 25 yards of distance, if encountered. Bears and wolves are recommended to stay at least 100 yards away.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are allowed in Grand Teton National Park, as there is a 14-mile groomed road for those who are interested in finding a new way to explore the park. This page includes information to keep in mind before going out. To explore the road is free, while the fee to enter the park is still active. There are also ranger-led snowshoe trips requiring a reservation made at 307-739-3399 weekdays, to explore from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Wed.-Fri.
For a more intense way to traverse the winter park, backcountry camping is open, as long as a permit is purchased at least 24 hours in advance. Grand Teton permit office is open on weekdays to call at 307-739-3309, and 307-739-3301 weekends to purchase the permit. Avalanches are possible in the backcountry so check the Bridger Teton Avalanche Center before heading out. Primitive camping is also allowed for $5 at Colter Bay and will be paid in the entrance fee station when entering the park.