JACKSON, Wyo. — A year has passed since the untimely death of Jackson Hole’s own bear celebrity, Grizzly 399.
Beloved across the globe and followed with voracity by her many fans, 399 was the oldest known reproducing grizzly bear in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. She mothered 18 cubs in her 28 years. She famously came out of hibernation in 2020 with four cubs in tow.
After being struck by a vehicle in Snake River Canyon in 2024, her ashes were laid to rest in Pilgrim Creek, where she spent much of her life, according to Grand Teton National Park. Town Square filled with people for her memorial in November. The mile marker in Snake River Canyon where the accident occurred is still adorned as a memorial.
Grizzly 399 was a larger-than-life figure, representing Jackson Hole wildlife culture and a wider conversation about protecting grizzly bears from all kinds of human interference. In 2016, her cub of the year “Snowy” was hit and killed by a vehicle near Pilgrim Creek. As a celebrity, 399 also took her turn being the butt of wholesome jokes.
Her legacy lives on in her home valley as well as around the world. Many fan pages are active with people who still share their stories and now look to 399’s offspring for hope. Her admirers continue to find ways to honor her spirit, from Jeff Bridges advocating for grizzly bears in the Tetons, to an east coast brewery naming a beer for her, to the National Museum of Wildlife Art commemorating her with a new sculpture.
The “Queen of the Tetons” will forever remain in the hearts of those who adored her.
