JACKSON HOLE, WYO –A movement galvanized by the newly-formed Teton Backcountry Alliance is intent on spreading news and organizing users about important issues facing future use of Teton Pass.

The driver of the vehicle swept off Teton Pass in December 2016 due to an avalanche suffered only minor injuries. (Tim Henry Woodard)

While there is no stated imminent threat to take away recreational use of the parking areas or access to backcountry skiing, WYDOT, the Forest Service, and other local authorities have made it clear that if the users don’t police themselves, someone will.

“The future access of Teton Pass by backcountry skiers and boarders is far from guaranteed, and depends on our knowledge, awareness, and good decision making,” shared Teton Pass Ambassador and Teton Backcountry Alliance Steering Committee member Jay Pistono.

A recent article in RootsRated titled, “Loving the Pass to Death” perfectly sums up the situation to date. In the story, Pistono tells writer Dina Mishev:

Teton Pass Ambassador Jay Pistono performs avalanche testing nearly every day. (Buckrail)

“Lots of people are totally convinced there is no way they could lose access to the pass. It hangs in the balance every year though. It’s amazing how entitled people feel up there. WYDOT and the Forest Service could take access away at any point. We need to keep them happy and follow their rules.”

In addition to the strain put on resources like parking spaces, Pass skiing also puts motorists at risk of avalanche. Measures have been taken to mitigate concerns about overuse, including naming Pistono Pass Ambassador and providing additional fencing/signage in 2017 directing skiers and riders to exit their run well before they are likely to push snow onto the highway.

Horacio Garcia’s car was destroyed in an avalanche on Teton Pass in December 2016. The responsible skier never came forward and Garcia’s insurance would not cover the damage.(Buckrail)

The first of three public meetings of Teton Backcountry Alliance is scheduled for Wednesday, January 9 from 5:30 until 7:00pm at the Stagecoach Bar where drinks will be available for purchase. It will be a fun-filled evening that aims to address important issues facing future use of Teton Pass. Featured will be talks by several local experts, a silent auction, and time for an open exchange of ideas.

Teton Backcountry Alliance is a local grassroots organization, working to promote community, stewardship, sustainable access, and public safety for Teton-area winter backcountry users.