JACKSON, Wyo. — The very first snowfall of the season arrived on Tuesday, Oct. 29, signaling that Old Man Winter is on his way.
After weeks of warmer than average weather, the colder temperatures have helped to subdue a long and stressful wildland fire season. As of Tuesday, Oct. 29, Bridger-Teton National Forest reported that the Pack Trail Fire was 78% contained.
This fall, the valley transitioned from a 27-day dry spell with 70+ degree sunny days to the arrival of a cold front with 30 degree highs.
The sudden changes in mountain weather are never for the faint of heart. For many, it means searching for winter jackets, boots and mittens, and for others it could mean purchasing a new set of snow tires.
Some trees have stubbornly held onto their yellow and orange leaves, not recognizing that it’s time to let go.
Animals are also adjusting to this snowy precursor to winter by either bedding down, taking flight or migrating to warmer locations. This moose has made itself a bed in the snowy foliage.
Bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem are packing on the pounds before entering a deep torpor sleep state or their winter hibernation. Many pronghorn and mule deer herds migrate to the Upper Green River basin near Pinedale, according to Grand Teton National Park (GTNP).
Jackson’s resident bison herd typically relocates to an area about 30 miles north of Jackson in GTNP once the snow begins to fall. Their thick, woolly coats help protect them from freezing temperatures and harsh winds.
