First Hikes

The photos below are from Leigh, String & Phelps Lakes within Grand Teton National Park.

The Park entrances to these Lakes are about 10 miles from our front door.

Hiking (not to mention fly fishing, floating, camping, white water rafting, rock climbing, mountain biking, etc.) is a major summer attraction of the Jackson Hole area and one of our favorite outdoor activities. There are literally hundreds of miles of trails in all directions that range from grassy meadows to pine forrests to snow-capped mountain peaks. Many large and deep glacial lakes are interspersed among the mountain ranges. 

Varied landscapes require more knowledge and preparation than hikes of the Midwest. The weather can change much faster in and around mountain ranges, thus it is necessary to pack layers of clothes for the most routine hikes. Erratic terrain and significant elevation changes can significantly affect the physical aspect of any outing. 

And then there's the wildlife. Seeing a grizzly and and a mink in one 2.5 mile stretch of fairly well-travelled trail was a surprise. While we have learned much about the bears and moose and how to best avoid conflicts with them in the wild, there is no replacement for seeing these animals in their natural setting.