Spring is an adventurous time of year to visit the area. Weather can be unpredictable, but wildlife is on the move! The snowpack provides a beautiful contrast between the valley floor and the high peaks of the surrounding mountains. This year is the centennial for the National Parks System, come out, celebrate and enjoy these national treasures. Exploring Grand Teton and Yellowstone during the Spring months is a great time to be here. Before the Summer crowds hit, there are great dining deals to be had around Jackson. Wildlife viewing can be a much more natural experience than at busier times of year.
Yellowstone is currently open from Mammoth to Old Faithful; Madison to West Entrance; Norris to Canyon. The South Entrance is currently scheduled to open on May 13, 2016. The South entrance to Yellowstone National Park, which is the nearest to Jackson Hole, will soon be ready to accept visitors.
Grand Teton National Park is currently open from Moran to the South Entrance of Yellowstone; Moose to Taggart Lake Parking Area. The park’s interior roads are scheduled to open on May 1, 2016.
Most animals in the area will follow the receding snow line into the high country surrounding the valley. Elk in particular migrate in large number in and out of Yellowstone, wintering in and around the National Elk Refuge. You may see large numbers of animals still on the refuge or just a few stragglers, depending upon the snow depths and migration patterns.
