Mormon Row: Mid-March Access and Tips

Until the gates are opened, access is only a 3/4 mile easy hike over an asphalt road.

On the day I took this set of photos, southern Wyoming and much of Colorado was getting hammered with a huge late season winter storm. Jackson Hole, on the other hand, was being bathed in early spring like warm temperatures and beautiful blue skies. In a few months, Jackson Hole will be experiencing another busy year — possibly a record year — with tourists flocking to Wyoming’s wide open spaces. Interestingly, I made the short hike to the Mormon Row barns and, until I returned to my vehicle, I didn’t see a single person.

A Short Window of Solitude

Each year in December, when the Park Service locks the gates at each end of Antelope Flats, it feels like the Park Service takes away one of our important assets. It is certainly a crucial link between the East Boundary Road and Highway 89, but we are forced to live without it for three or four months. Around this time each year, we look forward to once again have access to the historic barns and homesteads. There will be dozens and dozens of touring companies and hundreds of tourists flocking to the area. Until that happens, outdoor enthusiasts and photographers can experience the region in a manner so few visitors ever will. With a layer of two to three feet of snow, it’s obvious it’s still winter—but a much more tame and livable version of it.

Antelope Flats Road isn’t technically closed to visitors—only the ability to drive across it throughout much of the winter. Intrepid visitors can hike in until the snow gets too deep, or access the Mormon Row area via snow shoes or cross-country skis. Over the past couple of years, the Park Service plows the road in March to allow herds of bison to cross from the highway towards the Kelly Warm Springs and onward to the National Elk Refuge. Despite only patches of snow and ice covering the roadway, the barricades at each end of the 2.5 mile section are still padlocked as of March 15, 2021.

John Moulton Barn — Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 60 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 250, Handheld.

Mid-March Weather

Most photographers prefer early morning light for their sunrise landscapes. Ah yes! Alpenglow and the golden light period can be so beautiful and rich! But to get that light, it would take a 3/4 mile hike before sunrise just to get to the intersection of Antelope Flats Road and Mormon Row Road. That’s the short distance if you hike in from the west. It’s roughly 1.75 miles to access the area from the East Boundary Road. The problem is not the hiking distance, it’s the early morning winter temperatures! They can hover around 0°F this time of the year, or down to -30°F during the January and February months. Throw in a little wind and an early morning photo outing can be down right dangerous! I usually reserve the alpenglow shots at the barns for mornings after the road is open. It’s more of a safety issue than an effort issue.

As of March 15th, the Antelope Flats roadway is relatively clear, but Mormon Row Road has not been plowed.

My Mid-May Trip to Mormon Row

I didn’t get up and ready thinking I was going to hike to Mormon Row, but when I saw the interesting clouds forming over the Tetons, I drove to the west side of Antelope Flats Road and parked at the snow plow turnaround area. If it had been miserably windy, I would have axed the plan. I live here so I can wait for a good day! The temperature on my watch said 28°F when I left the vehicle and it stayed relatively close to that throughout most of my outing. The “hike” was easy on the asphalt road, of course. After making to the John Moulton Barn, I was able to walk across the top surface of the frozen snow. Wiith the warm, sunny days, expect to crash through the surface layer. If you plan on taking photos off the road later in the morning, I’d suggest taking snow shoes. “Post holing” is NO FUN! I was chilly on the way out, comfortable while taking the photos, and relatively warm on my hike back to my vehicle.

Peach House — Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 120 mm, 1/1250 at f/8, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 220, Handheld.

You can “experience” Mormon Row at this time of the year in a way few people do. Familiar scenes take on an unfamiliar look and aesthetic.

Each of the structures can be photographed from a variety of angles and locations.

On about any morning throughout the spring, summer, and fall, you can expect numerous tourists and photographers bunched up to capture the iconic photos of the barns and the Tetons. As I mentioned earlier, I had it all to myself!

I went to this spot three different times in one morning. That’s because the clouds kept changing! Mormon Row is a paradise for pano photographers!

As much as I love including the Grand in my photos, I also enjoy capturing other angles and other peaks. In fact, on most mornings, I take more non-Tetons photos than of the iconic spots.

TA Moulton Barn — Stitched Pano: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 60 mm, 1/1000 at f/9, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 140, Handheld.

Of course, everyone has to take the traditional, iconic photos!

Photos taken at sunrise at the TA Moulton barn at this time of the year will have shadows across the east face of the barn. Additionally, your shadow will often be in the shots. I typically photograph the John Moulton homestead first and give the shadows at the TA Moulton Barn time to move off the face .

Teton Range — Stitched Pano: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 450 mm, 1/1250 at f/8, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 200, Handheld.

While I was at Mormon Row, clouds were rolling in from the southwest. Barns make good foreground elements, but the area is good if you want to emphasize the clouds and the Teton Range.

Skies with clouds like these make wonderful black and white images. While there are lots of third party options for post processing black and white images, I find Lightroom plenty capable. If I miss the rich morning colors of sunrise and alpenglow, I often consider going with black and white images.

“Non-standard” angles and distances usually make interesting photos.

Same ol’ barn, but it’s different than most people shoot it.

It’s easy to find interesting compositions this time of the year. The snow isolates essential elements nicely.

Been there, done that? I’ve photographed the barns and structures hundreds of times over the past 15 years. Still, the next time I go to Mormon Row, I can expect things to be “different”. For example, more snow may have melted, or more snow may have fallen! Clouds and the light are always changing. Besides the nostalgic and historic nature of the barns, they work as great foreground subjects to put in front of the Teton Range and smaller mountains.

While taking photos of the barns and structures, I like to watch for unexpected wildlife. This Black-billed Magpie posed for a shot or two. I’ve seen coyotes, bison, ermine, and badgers in the area, too. The day before I took these photos, I saw my first Western Bluebirds of the season. Even though I didn’t see one, I was “ready”.

Headgate — Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 320 mm, 1/1000 at f/9, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 250, Handheld.

Most people have tunnel vision while in an iconic place like Grand Teton National Park. I think it helps to get the “obligatory” shots out of the way and then look for other options.

Peach House Window — Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 122 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 280, Handheld.

Mormon Row has tons of options for close-up textures and details, as seen in this shot. I lined up the light gray ball with the dark chimney for this shot.

Murphy Barn — Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 240 mm, 1/1000 at f/9, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 180, Handheld.

I like trying to capture a feeling of isolation: Some of these photos illustrate how tough life would have been for the early Mormon settlers. Town, and access to groceries and supplies, would have been near impossible.

The areas north of this barn are closed to human activity. Soon there will be signs indicating closures for the Sage Grouse lek. I believe that’s a herd of elk heading north already.

You might want to know the area is off limits to dogs, even on a leash. The rule of thumb in GTNP is you can take a dog or pet wherever you can drive a vehicle. Additionally, all dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Since Antelope Flats Road is closed, you can’t walk a dog there.

Mormon Row is a good place to experiment with focus options, focus stacking, panoramas, and so forth.

John Moulton Barns — Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 155 mm, 1/1000 at f/9, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 200, Handheld.

Gear and Other Considerations

On my outing, I went out “lean” carrying only one camera and one lens. Of course, I had a fresh battery and empty cards. A tripod might be needed if I had left the vehicle long before sunrise, but I didn’t take one. My Sigma Sport 60-600mm lens works well as both a landscape and wildlife lens, and does a good job with most close-up photos. If I had wanted to carry a small backpack, I would have added some hand warmers, toilet paper (the outhouse was open, but probably not stocked), and a 24-70 lens. A backpack might also be worthwhile to carry jackets, hats, and gloves once the temperatures climb, and a good option if I planned on taking snow shoes with me.

While some purists frown on it, I like to eliminate “distractions”, especially manmade ones. I removed some stop signs and posts in a few photos, and I cloned in some peach colored plaster on a couple of photos.

Mormon Row Related Posts

Photographing the Mormon Row Barns:- If you plan on gong to the Mormon Row barns, you might get some better shots after reading this one.
Photographing the Mormon Row Barns:
Distance and Scale Relationships in the Tetons (and elsewhere)
The Moulton Barns: 1963-1965
Late September Panoramics
A December Morning Along Mormon Row:
Teton Sunrises: It Takes Two to Tango
Seasons at the Thomas A. Moulton Barn:
Bands of Light
Lightning at the Mormon Row Barns
A Few Steps Closer: Capturing the Finer Details
Get Down—and sometimes dirty!
Pretty In Peach: The Historic Stucco House on Mormon Row
Making the Best of a Rainy Day:
Early Roads in Grand Teton National Park:
Preservation Begins on the John Moulton Homestead!
The “Missing” GTNP Farming and Ranching Photos:
Mormon Row Irrigation and the Kelly Warm Springs:
Kelly and Antelope Flats Map from 1939

I renewed all of my permits and am accepting photo tours for 2021…with modifications!

Normally, I drive my tour clients around in my vehicle. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I’ve opted to offer tours by letting clients follow me in their vehicles. This allows for ample social distancing. I purchased several pairs of walkie-talkies to allow me to communicate while driving. Instead of eating inside one of the restaurants, I Creekside Market will make sandwiches to order for the day’s trip. Masks, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes will be provided. If you have questions, please ask!

The goal is to keep both of us safe, yet cover most of the same areas of the park.

Photo tours help me pay bills and continue to add content to this site. Keep me in mind if you are going to be in the valley! My tours are licensed by the National Park Service and National Elk Refuge.

I offer year round photo tours in Grand Teton National Park and Winter tours in the National Elk Refuge. Book now! Click the image for additional information.

Client Comments: “As a published and passionate photographer, I recognized Michael Jackson’s extraordinary skills as a photographer. Today I learned more about composition and creative technical ideas than I ever could have imagined.” G.S., Jackson Hole.

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March 1, 2021

March 2021 Daily Journal For GTNP & JH

March 31, 2021 – Wednesday

Please take a minute and register to sign up to follow this site. I’d love to have another couple hundred new subscribers from the group visiting the site this winter and spring. MJ

End of the Month: If you take a few minutes to scroll through all of the photos I took in March, you should notice a wide range of photos. If you were to scroll all the way down to the first entry of the month top read the text, you’ll notice that I think of March as a month to “scavenger hunt” for photos. They are there to be found, but sometimes it takes a little extra work and even some extra driving to get them. MJ

Bull Moose and Grand: There were at least eight Moose in the roundabout area this morning. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 112 mm, 1/500 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 450, Handheld.

Red-tailed Hawk: I caught this raptor along Spring Gulch Road, just after first light. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1250 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 1250, Handheld.

Other Wildlife

Kerry Singleton let me know she saw her first Yellow-bellied Marmot in Star Valley today. She has seen Snow Shoe Hares a few times, too. I saw a Chipmunk in my yard last week. I haven’t seen any Uinta Ground Squirrels yet, but expect them anytime. They are a food source for Badgers, Raptors, Foxes, and Coyotes. Four Wolves were spotted north of Kelly recently. I have been listening for reports of actual Bear sightings in GTNP, but it might still be a little early.

Watch for a new April 2021 Daily Journal sometime tomorrow.

March 30, 2021 – Tuesday

Bull Moose in Sage: I had hoped to be able to photograph this month’s “Super Moon”, but we had thick clouds over the Tetons on both mornings, including today. I was up and ready both days, but immediately switched to “wildlife mode”. This bull was only one of 16 moose I saw today. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 260 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 400, Handheld.

Bull Moose: I spent around 20 minutes in the 13° temperatures and slight breeze, waiting for this guy to finally raise his head. Instead he kept his head down in the sagebrush feeding on bitter brush. He finally raised his head for five or six quick shots, then he was back to feeding. While in the Kelly area, I watched for Bluebirds, wolves, coyotes, grouse, and foxes. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 260 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 450, Handheld.

Box L Ranch: Last night, my wife showed me a short video someone had posted on Facebook of a Bison with snow falling down. In the background, I could see the roof line of a house. I figured it was probably taken at the JH Golf & Tennis area, especially knowing some of the first bulls leave the Refuge and head that direction. I didn’t see any so, I headed back to town down Spring Gulch Road. Light was hitting the barn, so I stopped for a photo, and to document the snow pack for followers here. This level of snow is good for foxes, coyotes, and raptors. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 420 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 180, Handheld.

Great Horned Owl: Spotted in a cottonwood tree south of GTNP. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 360 mm, 1/640 at
f/8, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, ISO 320, Handheld

Sleeping Indian: Shadows on the hillsides and receding snow. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 240 mm, 1/640 at
f/8, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, ISO 140, Handheld

Cedar Waxwing: Seen feeding on berries in town. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at
f/8, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 640, Handheld.

March 29, 2021 – Monday

Sandhill Cranes: Taken through the snow and fog at the Kelly Warm Springs. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 450 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 1 ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 1000, Handheld.

Sandhill Cranes by the Dozen: Canada Geese are also back in Jackson Hole in large numbers. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 320 mm, 1/500 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 360, Handheld.

Bald Eagle: Taken from the Gros Ventre Bridge. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/800 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 1000, Handheld.

American Robin: Robins are abundant around town now. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/800 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 640, Handheld.

March 28, 2021 – Sunday

Bull Moose with Grand: Taken just west of the roundabout on Sagebrush Drive. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 105 mm, 1/250 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 1250, Handheld.

Bull Moose with Nubs:

Snow Caps: Taken from Sagebrush Drive while waiting for the bull to raise its head. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 270 mm, 1/800 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 160, Handheld.

Teton Peaks: Taken from the Gros Ventre Road.

Young Bull Moose: Captured along the Gros Ventre Road. I missed the shot I wanted….a Magpie had just landed on this youngster’s rump. The Magpie flew as I was getting out of the car.

Sharp-tailed Grouse: Taken near Ditch Creek on the East Boundary Road.

Ravens: Taken at the Antelope Road Junction on the East Boundary Road. The gate is still locked, even though the road is completely dry. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 270 mm, 1/800 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 160, Handheld.

March 27, 2021 – Saturday

Southern Range Pano: Taken from the East Boundary Road, aiming to the Southwest. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/250 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 180, Handheld.

Approaching Bull Moose: This was a “Moose morning”. I counted at least 13 Moose out in the sagebrush in the south end of the Park. This bull doesn’t look like he’s going to do the “mangy moose” scenario. He’s already replacing his thick winter fur with short, clean, and dark fur. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 122 mm, 1/3200 at f/5.6, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 2800, Handheld.

Bull Moose: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3G at 210 mm, 1/1000 at f/5.3, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 3600, Handheld.

Bald Eagles: I would have expected this pair to be on a nest by now. I took the photo along Spring Gulch Road. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3G at 210 mm, 1/1000 at f/5.3, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 3600, Handheld.

Longhorn Skull: It’s hard to pass up a shot like this. I saw it while taking photos of the Eagles. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 1100, Handheld.

March 26, 2021 – Friday

The “Annual” JH Hill Climb is happening this weekend at Snow King Resort. It was a casualty of Covid-19 last year.

Trumpeter Swan: This was taken at the Boyle’s Hill Swan Pond, west of Jackson. Even though this bird has leg bands, I think it’s a wild one. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/800 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 1 EV, Auto ISO 160, Handheld.

I drove down the Snake River Canyon this morning after getting another dusting of snow here in town. I may have been there a little too early, but I didn’t see a single Mountain Goat.

Sleeping Indian: Later in the day, I made a quick trip to the National Elk Refuge. I haven’t bee there in a while. This photo should give viewers a good idea of the snow pack in the town area. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 220 mm, 1/800 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 100, Handheld.

Bighorn Ewe: I was actually surprised to see so many Bighorns still around. Counting the ones on the ridges, I’d gusss 50 or more. Most of them are bleached considerably since they showed up in November.I didn’t see any of the larger rams. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3G at 600 mm, 1/1250 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 180, Handheld.

Swan Stretching: There are large numbers of Canada Geese returning to the valley, along with large numbers of Americans Robins. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 360 mm, 1/1600 at f/8, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 500, Handheld.

Other Wildlife: I saw my first Chipmunk yesterday. I have been watching for Marmots, but haven’t seen any yet. I saw my second Mountain Bluebird on the Refuge this afternoon. I haven’t heard of any actual bear sightings…only tracks. No Great Gray Owls.

March 25, 2021 – Thursday

Bull Moose in Sage Flats: A few of the Moose are back on the sagebrush zones, feeding again bitter brush. This bull was along the East Boundary Road with the north end of Blacktail Butte in the background. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 300 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 280, Handheld.

Pine Grosbeak: From another angle, these birds looked more like White-winged Crossbills. Either way, they were on the Upper Gros Ventre. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 140, Handheld.

Farm Equipment: This relic was also on the Upper Gros Ventre. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 170 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 220, Handheld.

March 24, 2021 – Wednesday

New Feature Post : New Post Card Section!

This is actually a “4 in 1” addition to Best of the Tetons. Besides the “Post Cards” Home Page, I added new, individual postcard pages for Snake River Overlook, Moose, WY Area, and the Chapel of the Transfiguration. I also linked some of my previous posts that featured vintage postcards. The pages are sprinkled with maps and date information about the Park.

Grab a cup of coffee and check them out!

Shane – Paramount’s Classic Western

by Aubrey Malone | Released Feb 24, 2021

If you are a Shane movie fan, check out Aubrey Malone’s new book! The link above will take you to Amazon’s site where you can buy it new for $22 (or used for $26.68…just have to chuckle). Shane has been described as the greatest western movie ever made. I don’t know if I would go that far, but it might have applied for movies of the time.

Each time Shane plays on TV, my site gets a bump of visitors searching for information about the movie. Check out these Shane pages:

Cassin’s Finch: This is the first one I’ve seen this year. He was singing away! Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 900, Tripod.

Black-billed Magpie: Instead of going out this morning, I worked on the new Postcard pages. I saw a few Cedar Waxwings on the back edge of my property, but they were too far out. I sliced up an orange but they didn’t approach while I was out. In the meantime, I took a few other bird shots. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 320 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 900, Tripod.

Raven: Marching across a willow branch. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 720, Tripod.

Seller’s Jay: I don’t know how much longer this bird will hang around, but it was great to have one hanging around all winter. I’ve also seen and heard the Bluejays lately. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 1400, Tripod.

March 23, 2021 – Tuesday

Snake River Canyon Mountain Goat: After some overnight snow, I ventured down the Canyon to see if I could find a Mountain Goat on the fresh layer of powder. I found this nanny. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/640 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 360, Handheld.

On the Rocks: The new snow made some of the shots so much better! Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 320, Tripod.

March 22, 2021 – Monday

Buffalo Valley Sunrise: I wasn’t sure if theBuffalo Fork River would be open yet. As you can see, it is still covered with snow. Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 24.0-70.0 mm f/2.8 at 70 mm, 1/160 at f/9, Manual Mode, ‒ 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 720, Handheld.

Tetons in Pink: Taken east of Moran Junction. This pink light lasted only a few minutes, then dulled. By the time I was driving home, the Tetons were fully covered and gray. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 135 mm, 1/160 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 720, Handheld.

Mount Moran: Oxbow Bend has a bit of open water now, but I didn’t see any Ducks, Geese, or Swans taking advantage of it. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 90 mm, 1/160 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 1 EV, Auto ISO 400, Handheld.

Area Closure (Grizzly Activity)

GTNP: The east facing slope below the “skier summit” and the true summit of “25 Short” (peak 9975) is CLOSED. Direct access across summit ridgeline to Turkey Chute, Chute the Moon, and other routes into Avalanche Canyon are open. The area is closed to prevent a potential conflict between a denning grizzly bear and skiers in the “25 Short” area. View Map HERE

March 21, 2021 – Sunday

Please take a minute and register to sign up to follow this site. I’d love to have another couple hundred new subscribers from the group visiting the site this winter and spring. MJ

Immature Bald Eagle: Captured in South Park a little after lunch time. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 360 mm, 1/2000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 250, Handheld.

Loose Ends

We had a dusting of snow overnight, but it melted quickly. The “Sleigh Rides” on the National Elk Refuge are now “Wagon Rides”. Elk are more scattered and moving out of the Refuge.

“Planning This Year’s Trip To Yellowstone”: I spent some time today setting up this still life. I am not sure where it will eventually end up, but this first pass seems to be working. I’ll almost surely set up the tripod and light paint it. Stay tuned! I’ll do a few Grand Teton NP variations, too.

March 20, 2021 – Saturday – First Day of Spring!

Astoria Hot Springs: The weather report called for snow. I headed south in hopes of getting Mountain Goat with snow falling. I stopped at the Astoria Hot Springs on my way down the Snake River Canyon. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 260 mm, 1 second at f/20, Aperture priority Mode, ⅓ EV, ISO 100, Tripod.

Astoria Hot Springs: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 380 mm, 1/3 second at f/9, Aperture priority Mode, 0 EV, ISO 100, Tripod.

Life on the Edge: I found one Mountain Goat (one’s enough!). This is a vertical pano stitched in Lightroom. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 1600, Tripod with Wimberley Full Gimbal Head .

Covid-19 Notes:

I am now two weeks past my second Pfizer vaccination. Darla received her second shot this morning. Other than a little soreness at the injection site, I didn’t have any reaction following either shot.

March 19, 2021 – Friday

Bull Moose and Grand: This bull was reaching to get the higher twigs and branches. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 170 mm, 1/640 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 220, Handheld.

First Growth: This shot shows the new dome of antler growth. Although it’s too early to tell, this bull has a dewlap similar to Shoshone’s. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 260 mm, 1/640 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 320, Handheld.

Too Close for Comfort: These two were lucky this bull was not aggressive. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 122 mm, 1/640 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 320, Handheld.

Morning in the Tetons: Taken from a spot near the East boundary Road. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 120 mm, 1/640 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 100, Handheld.

Antelope Flats Road: As you can see, the road is bone dry, but still locked and barricaded. Note: This car shouldn’t be parked in this spot.

Sage Grouse: These two were next to the road when I was driving by. I didn’t see them until it was too late. I turned around and found them not too far away. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/640 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 100, Handheld.

Trumpeter Swans: Taken closer to home near the Visitor’s Center. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 390 mm, 1/1600 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ‒ ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 140, Handheld.

Trumpeter Swans: I hear and saw several Red-winged Blackbirds and heard a Wren or two. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 390 mm, 1/1600 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ‒ ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 140, Handheld.

March 18, 2021 – Thursday

Moose and Elk: When I left the house EARLY, I was thinking landscapes, but there weren’t enough clouds. I turned at the roundabout and caught these two Moose and two Elk in the Gros Ventre River. I you look at the settings, you’ll see I was shooting wide open, with a very low shutter speed, and I still had a very high ISO. I took a few shots handheld, then grabbed the tripod for the rest of the river shots. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/125 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 4000, Handheld.

Moose Cow and Calf: The two Elk split, leaving me to concentrate on the crossing Moose pair…still very early in the morning. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/125 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 4000, Tripod.

Sunrise Clouds: I took this shot from the south end of Mormon Row Road. Antelope Flats Road is still barricaded, and Mormon Row Road is both barricaded and covered with deep snow. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 112 mm, 1/125 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 320, Handheld.

Sharp-tailed Grouse: Seen near Ditch Creek on the East Boundary Road. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/125 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 1 EV, Auto ISO 720, Handheld.

White-winged Crossbill: Taken near the Shane Cabin. There were three or four pairs moving along the road and eating berries. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/125 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 1 EV, Auto ISO 720, Handheld.

March 17, 2021 – Wednesday – St. Patrick’s Day

Tetons: Taken from Spring Gulch Road.

Mountain Goat: I put on a green shirt today…and maybe that gave some of the luck of the Irish! Anyway, I found a Mountain Goat on the rocks of the Snake River Canyon this morning.

Mountain Goat on Snow:

Mountain Goat Hooves: This nanny was walking across the snow and turned her hooves inward enough to let me get a shot.

Mountain Goat: Sometimes, people assume we are right on top of the animals, when in fact, the tight images are a result of the zooming ability of the lens. At 60mm on the 60-600mm lens, you can get a better idea of the actual conditions.

Lookout Rock: I posted this one on Instagram today. Click Here to visit that site.

Great Gray Owl: The next few photos were from an evening trip to eastern Idaho yesterday afternoon.

Great Gray Owl Take Off:

Great Gray Owl in Flight:

Great Gray Owl in Hovering:

Great Gray Owl with Mouse:

I’ll add the shooting data later…time for a late lunch. MJ

March 16, 2021 – Tuesday

Snake River Sunrise: It took a while for this scene to develop, requiring lifting of the eastern clouds. I took it from the pedestrian bridge over the Snake River near Wilson. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 130 mm, 1/160 at f/8, Aperture priority Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 100, Tripod.

New Feature Post: Mormon Row: Mid-March Access and Tips

I spent yesterday morning along Mormon Row, where there’s a couple of feet of snow and easy access via the plowed road. Check it out!

March 15, 2021 -Monday

Mid-Month Notes : Changes Abound!

How about a few tidbits!

Daylight Savings Time is in effect in Wyoming.
I saw my first Bluebird pair of the year on Sunday. More should be following them.
There have been large numbers of Red-winged Blackbirds in Star Valley. They should arrive here in numbers soon.
Bighorn Sheep are still around, but I haven’t seen any of the larger rams in a while.
Mountain Goats have been hard to find in the Snake River Canyon this year. The large herd in the Canyon appears to have moved north where 79 have been killed in GTNP and 29 more to be culled this year. Read More….
My wife received a text saying a the person had watched a Wolf play with a Coyote near the rocks at Miller Butte in the National Elk Refuge. That was mid-morning on Saturday. Other people have spotted random wolves around the south edges of GTNP.
Snow is melting fast! Days have been quite warm recently. Winter is waining and Spring seems to be coming early. A recent article suggested the snowpack was about normal in JH this year.
The Bald Eagles I photographed last week appear to have moved on.
Trumpeter Swans are still abundant, but with all of the open water in the Snake River, I suspect they will be heading north soon.
The Bison herds that wintered in the Elk Ranch Flats and Triangle X Ranch area moved onto the National Elk Refuge (out of sight)
The group of Sage Grouse we photographed earlier in March appear to have plenty of other feeding zones and have not been seen close to the roads lately.
The Snake River bottom is closed until April 1st. (North of Visitors Center to Pacific Creek)
Numerous boat ramps have reopened south of GTNP. Spring fishing is usually good until run-off.
The price of Unleaded Self-Service gas has been going up steadily over the past couple of weeks. $2.85 – $2.89 per gallon is common in town and $2.95 per gallon on the Idaho side.
Camping in GTNP will require ONLINE reservations and payment. Some campgrounds are already near full capacity.

Covid-19 Notes

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon announced on Monday that the state would be lifting its state-wide mask mandate as well as some other Covid-19 economic restrictionsThe new order lifting restrictions will allow a number of business categories — including bars, restaurants, gyms and movie theaters — to “resume normal operations” on March 16. (source Fox News).
National Lands and Buildings are still requiring masks with some outdoor exceptions. Read More via GTNP news bulliten...
Teton County and the Town of Jackson still has a mask ordinance thru mid-April.
Covid-19 Shots and Testing for Teton County residents is becoming easier to get.

1927 Wyoming Map Corner: I spent $25 on eBay for a vintage 1927 Wyoming Road Map. It’s the oldest one I’ve been able to find to date. There’s some very interesting information here! First, notice there is no Grand Teton National Park. Grand Teton National Park was established by an Act of Congress, Feb 26, 1929. Notice the town of Cheney…now Hoback Junction. There’s no Snake River Canyon Road from Hoback Junction to Alpine. The area of the Park we identify as Moose Junction did not exist. You can also see old connections between Kelly and Kendal and Dubois. The historic Darwin Ranch is on the extreme upper Gros Ventre Road, but I’ve never gone that far. Also notice the designation of the “Rocky Mountain Highway” from Rollins to Moran. I don’t recall ever seeing that title for the road. Yellowstone is shown. It was established by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Ulysses S. Grant on March 1, 1872.

If you would like to support my “eBay habit”, there’s a Donate to the Site feature in the navigation bar. The money goes to site costs, gasoline costs, and now ephemera costs (maps and literature). Any help is greatly appreciated! MJ

1934 Shell Map NW Corner: This map shows GTNP (the original section). Under the WYOMING letters, notice the maximum speed was 35 MPH! Ouch!!!

Resting Bull Moose: I hiked out to the Mormon Row Barns this morning for some late winter shots. On the way, I saw this big bull Moose resting near the Gros Ventre River. He appears to have the beginnings of antler growth.

TA Moulton Barn: Not that many people get to experience the Mormon Row barns and homesteads blanketed in snow like this. I took enough photos to be able to make a “Late Winter on Mormon Row” Feature Post. I keep promising some vintage Post Card posts, but I think these photos are quite topical and timely. Antelope Flats Road is plowed, but it still takes a 3/4 mile hike to get to them from the West end. Watch for the new post very soon!

March 14, 2021 – Sunday

Coyote: Seen early in the morning at the National Elk Refuge. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 340 mm, 1/1000 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 250, Handheld.

Mountain Goat: I didn’t plan on going that far south today, but I ended up driving down the Snake River Canyon. I only saw four Mountain Goats. The two cleanest Goats were already heading up the mountain. The fur on the other two were a bit more scruffy than I would have preferred, so “tolerate” the photos, I did a little cloning in Photoshop. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 340 mm, 1/1000 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 250, Handheld.

Mountain Goat: The area has lost a lot of snow in the past week to two. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 420 mm, 1/2500 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 360, Handheld.

Bull Elk: Taken at the elk feed grounds south of Alpine. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 420 mm, 1/2500 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 360, Handheld.

Elk at the Feedgrounds: In Jackson, elk are fed pellets, but in Alpine, they are fed alfalfa. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 480 mm, 1/2000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 280, Handheld.

Red-tailed Hawk: This is a fairly common sight in Star Valley. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/4000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 1000, Handheld.

Great Horned Owl: Also seen in Star Valley. The raptor was tucked in a large willow tree, so there was no way to eliminate the random twigs and branches. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 900, Handheld.

Haynes 100 Postcards: Followers at Best of the Tetons might enjoy some of my upcoming Feature Posts showcasing vintage postcards similar to the ones above. This group of 100 were sold as a “complete boxed set”. Of the ones with a copyright date, the newest one was 1935. Others dated back to 1916, so I suspect the other were pre-1916. The three in the upper right were from Grand Teton National Park, established by an Act of Congress, Feb 26, 1929. The postcard showing the Grand was copyrighted 1929. Besides this group of 100 linen card, I have hundreds of others featuring GTNP and hundreds of other western sites and attractions. Stay tuned! MJ

March 13, 2021 – Saturday

Great Gray Owl: This group of GGO photos were actually taken on Friday, but I didn’t have much time last night to post many. The “goal” when I left home was was to first: find an owl, and second: catch them in flight. I dragged out my tripod to help me be ready when they flew. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 380 mm, 1/4000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 900, Tripod.

Great Gray Owl in Evening Light: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 420 mm, 1/4000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 2200, Handheld.

Great Gray Take Off: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/4000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 1100, Tripod.

Great Gray Take Off: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 450 mm, 1/4000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 1800, Tripod.

Great Gray Owl Approaching: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/3200 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 4500, Handheld.

Evening Portrait: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/500 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 900, Handheld.

Searching in Snow: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/250 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 4000, Handheld.

I could post a LOT more! Still culling through around 2000 photos I took yesterday.

March 12, 2021 – Friday

Sorry for the late post! I set my alarm for 4:30 am to be able to get over the pass and into Idaho at sunrise. My primary target was going to be Great Gray Owls (in flight if possible). I didn’t ANY owls in the morning, so I milled around the region and took photos of some of the farm scenes. Later in the day, I had better luck with the Owls. I didn’t get home until 9:30 pm, so I was pretty shot!

Idaho Tractor: I liked the downward movement in this capture, taking you eventually to the crank. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 240 mm, 1/1600 at f/5.6, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 280, Handheld.

Idaho Windmill: I am not sure if this windmill is still in use, but it’s a classic feature. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 140 mm, 1/1600 at f/5.6, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 140, Handheld.

Idaho Bucket: This relic was wired to the windmill. It didn’t look like it had been used in a long, long time. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 280 mm, 1/1600 at f/5.6, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 200, Handheld.

Idaho Grain Elevator: I thought the pigeon was a nice finishing touch. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 86 mm, 1/1000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 160, Handheld.

Idaho Gate: The stacked rock wall caught my eye initially as I passed this active farm. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 85 mm, 1/1000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 200, Handheld.

March 11, 2021 – Thursday

Bison and Mt. Moran: Taken at Kelly. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 220 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 200, Handheld.

Bison on the Move: It appears the herds were headed across the Gros Ventre Rive and towards the north end of the National Elk Refuge. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 185 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 250, Handheld.

Bison: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 320, Handheld.

Great Horned Owl: Seen south of Jackson.Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 450 mm, 1/1000 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 320, Handheld.

March 10, 2021 – Wednesday

Sleeping Red Fox: I spent the beginning of my morning along the Moose-Wilson Road looking primarily for Foxes, but never saw one. I headed to the Kelly area, only to find I had missed (by only a few minutes) a Gray Wolf crossing the Gros Ventre Road. The “Wolf Jam” was just breaking up. I headed onward towards Kelly when I came upon a couple of cars pulled over and this Red Fox sleeping not too far off the road. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 560, Handheld.

Sleeping Red Fox: I had only been there long enough to get a few shots of it curled up and sleeping when it got active. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 560, Handheld.

Scratching Red Fox: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1250 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 500, Handheld.

Stretching Red Fox: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 640, Handheld.

Red Fox: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 500 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 500, Handheld.

Shaking Red Fox: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 500 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 560, Handheld.

Red Fox: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 390 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 800, Handheld.

Red Fox: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 390 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 560, Handheld.

Winter Bull Moose: Seen near the Shane Cabin. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 420 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 720, Handheld.

Elk Refuge Sleighs: Heading towards the highway for the day’s tours. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 390 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, 1 EV, Auto ISO 400, Handheld.

I renewed all of my permits and am accepting photo tours for 2021…with modifications!

The goal is to keep both of us safe, yet cover most of the same areas of the park.

I offer year round photo tours in Grand Teton National Park and Winter tours in the National Elk Refuge. Book now! Click the image for additional information.

Client Comments: “As a published and passionate photographer, I recognized Michael Jackson’s extraordinary skills as a photographer. Today I learned more about composition and creative technical ideas than I ever could have imagined.” G.S., Jackson Hole.

March 9, 2021 – Tuesday

Bison in Snow: A herd of around 30 Bison were in the grassy fields between Kelly and the Kelly Warm Springs, along with another herd of about that many near the Kelly Warm Springs restroom. Both herds had stalled out and were just standing there, before beginning to bed down for the morning. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 340 mm, 1/640 at f/8, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 400, Handheld.

Fence and Shadows: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 300 mm, 1/1250 at f/8, Manual Mode, ‒ ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 220, Handheld.

Shane Cabin: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 100 mm, 1/1250 at f/8, Manual Mode, ‒ ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 250, Handheld.

Winter Cascades: A few weeks ago, this small cascade on Teton Pass was still covered with snow, but a few sections are beginning to show. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 185 mm, 1/5 at f/16, Manual Mode, ‒ ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 100, Tripod.

Moose Cow: I went back to Kelly in the afternoon, knowing I left two herds of Bison this morning. I saw this Moose grazing on twigs and branches along the Gros Ventre.

Bison Cows:

Bison Lip Curl: The Bison rut was in August, but apparently this bull is still searching for a late season cow.

March 8, 2021 – Monday

Teton Sunrise: If this shot looks “strange”, it’s because it was taken from the Idaho side of the range. I set the alarm for 4:30 am to be there early. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 380 mm, 1/1600 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 320, Handheld.

Great Gray Owl in Gold: The light seen in the previous photo bathed this Gray Gray Owl in a splendid “film” of gold. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1600 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 2200, Handheld.

Great Gray Owl in Gold: The Owl was hunting, but I didn’t see one fly to the ground on this trip. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/400 at f/8, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 1250, Handheld.

Great Gray Owl: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 1 EV, Auto ISO 450, Handheld.

Great Gray Owl: I missed a couple of flight shots. This is about the best I got in that respect. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 360 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 1 ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 360, Handheld.

Great Gray Owl: It would be easy to miss seeing this bird…perfectly blended with its surroundings! Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 450, Handheld.

Great Gray Owl: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 500 mm, 1/1600 at f/8, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 1400, Handheld.

Great Gray Owl: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 360 mm, 1/1600 at f/8, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 1100, Handheld.

March 7, 2021 – Sunday

Covid-19 Notes

It has been almost 24 hours since I received my second Pfizer vaccine. I was prepared to be somewhat “under the weather” today, but other than the sore arm at the injection site, I have not had any kind of reaction.

Bald Eagle: Just in case the vaccine kicked in, I stayed relatively close to home this morning. I found a Great Horned Owl and a few Bald Eagles, then dedicated my time to them. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 480 mm, 1/1600 at f/8, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 250, Handheld.

Great Horned Owl: This is not the same GHO I photographed yesterday, but one I’ve definitely photographed before. Normally, she is tucked deep in the shadows, but was lit by the early morning sun today. One eye is squinting, while the other one was checking me out. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, ‒ ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 1600, Handheld.

Bald Eagle: Since they were fairly active, I was able to get a lot of flight shots today. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1600 at f/8, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 220, Handheld.

Bald Eagle: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1600 at f/8, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 220, Handheld.

Bald Eagle and Barrow’s Golden Eye: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1600 at f/8, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 220, Handheld.

Bald Eagles: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1600 at f/9, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 1250, Handheld.

Bald Eagle: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1600 at f/8, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 220, Handheld.

Bald Eagle: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 100, Handheld.

Bald Eagle in Cottonwoods: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, ‒ ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 1600, Handheld.

March 6, 2021 – Saturday

Sunrise BW: I didn’t expect the clouds this morning, but they were a welcome addition for the first light shots. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 185 mm, 1/200 at f/9, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 110, Handheld.

Sage Grouse on Display: The Sage Grouse were active in the Kelly area this morning. Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 450, Handheld.

Sage Grouse on Display: Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 450, Handheld.

Hoar Frost in Sepia Tone: Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 380 mm, 1/500 at f/9, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 125, Handheld.

Gray Wolf on the Move: Normally, I have my shutter speed set to around 1/1000th second, just in case I see some wildlife. This morning, I stopped for a few hoar frost shots and slowed the camera down to 1/200th second. I then headed to the National Elk Refuge. When I saw this wolf, I had to stop and shoot since he was on the run. If I had a minute more time, I would have checked the settings and “froze” the action, but these panning shots are interesting. Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 600 mm, 1/200 at f/9, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 64, Handheld.

Gray Wolf on the Move: This wolf has a new collar but it’s not that visible when he’s looking at you. Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 600 mm, 1/200 at f/9, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 64, Handheld.

Gray Wolf on the Move: I was “panning” with the Wolf, so a few of them had acceptable sharpness on his head. I’d probably purposefully experiment with the slow shutter speed shots on Wolves, if had hundreds of previous chances, but I wish I had not adjusted the shutter speed earlier when I was photographing the frosty branches. Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 600 mm, 1/200 at f/9, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 64, Handheld.

I’ll got my second Pfizer Covid-19 Vaccine this afternoon and plan to be a bit “under the weather” tomorrow.

Immature Bald Eagle: After my shot, I did a quick loop and found a few Bald Eagles.

Immature Bald Eagle: Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 600 mm, 1/800 at f/9, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 800, Handheld.

Immature Bald Eagles: Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 280 mm, 1/1600 at f/9, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 640, Handheld.

Immature Bald Eagle: Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 600 mm, 1/1600 at f/9, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 2200, Handheld.

Immature Bald Eagle: Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 600 mm, 1/1600 at f/9, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 560, Handheld.

Immature Bald Eagle: Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 600 mm, 1/800 at f/9, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 800, Handheld.

Great Horned Owl: Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 600 mm, 1/800 at f/9, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 1000, Handheld.

March 5, 2021 – Friday

The Descent: After striking out three or four times, I finally managed to catch Mountain Goats in the Snake River Canyon. Five came down to the road, two of which had red ear tags. Two were “kids” (young Mountain Goats). Only one of the three nannies lacked tags or a collar. I saw at least one more at the very top of the mountain. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 450 mm, 1/1000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 360, Tripod.

Mountain Goat: Given a choice, I’d rather photograph the white beasts of winter on the rocks and ridges, but any photos felt like a blessing! Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 640, Tripod.

Ear Tags: Normally, I delete most of this type of shot. No one would want to buy a photo for their wall with the tags and it takes a bit of time and effort to remove them in Photoshop. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 560, Tripod.

Nanny and Kid: This nanny did have a visible tag on its right ear, but it was easy enough to remove. The left ear was folded back so I didn’t see the red tag. And, with her turned just right, I couldn’t see the collar. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1250 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 360, Tripod.

Nanny: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 560, Tripod.

Mountain Goat on the Rocks: This might have been a better shot if he had been standing. I hung around for a while, hoping he would pose for me. Never happened! Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/640 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 160, Tripod.

Mountain Goat on the Rocks: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/320 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 100, Tripod.

Astoria Hot Springs: On the way home, I stopped for a quick shot of the warm water of Astoria Hot Springs as it cascades towards the Snake River. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 260 mm, 1/40 at f/25, Manual Mode, ‒ ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 100, Handheld.

March 4, 2021 – Thursday

Alpenglow: The landscape shots I took today were what I had anticipated getting on the 1st but the bank of clouds forced be back south. Alpenglow was quick this morning. Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 68 mm, 1/3 at f/9, Aperture priority Mode, 0 EV, ISO 64, Tripod.

Alpenglow Pano: These shots were taken along the highway at Triangle X Ranch. Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 60 mm, 1/5 at f/9, Aperture priority Mode, 0 EV, ISO 64, Tripod.

Alpenglow and First Glow Pano: You can see larger pano images by clicking on them. Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 60 mm, 1/10 at f/9, Aperture priority Mode, 0 EV, ISO 64, Tripod.

First Light: This is a single shot taken at Elk Ranch. Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 66 mm, 1/640 at f/5.6, Aperture priority Mode, 0 EV, ISO 250, Handheld.

Sage Grouse: These were taken near the Kelly Warm Springs. Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 600 mm, 1/800 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 220, Handheld.

Sage Grouse: Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 600 mm, 1/800 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 220, Handheld.

Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Sigma Sport 60.0-600.0 mm f/4.5-6.3 at 600 mm, 1/800 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 200, Handheld.Sage Grouse:

Bluejay: I spent a few minutes in the back yard while cooking some lunch on the grill. I had quite a few visitors in a short period of time. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 360 mm, 1/1000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 560, Tripod.

Spotted Towhee: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 500, Tripod.

Spotted Towhee: This is a tough target! Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, 0 EV, Auto ISO 200, Tripod.

March 3, 2021 – Wednesday

Mountain Goat Kid: I received a tip that a black Wolf and three Coyotes were on a carcass north of town. I went there to find out the carcass was hundreds of yards away. I received another text at about that time stating Mountain Goats were on the highway in the Canyon. It takes 45 minutes to make the drive, and by the time I got there, they were headed back up the mountain. I took a few photos “through the power lines” just to get a record shot and removed the power lines in Photoshop for this cropped photo. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 100, Handheld.

Immature Eagle: To kill some time (hoping a few more Goats would show up at the road again), I drove around looking for anything interesting. Yesterday, I saw a Great Horned Owl while in Star Valley. No Owl today, but I saw an American Kestrel, a Rough-legged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk and several Eagles. Yesterday, I heard and saw my first Red-winged Blackbird while in Star Valley. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1250 at f/9, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 140, Handheld.

This Old House: I was able to stand on top of a five foot tall snow bank for this shot. There are some 15-20 foot high snow banks in the small town of Alpine. In Jackson, the town road crews move the big snow bank to the rodeo grounds. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 98 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 100, Handheld.

Fence Post and Fencing: There are Showshoe Hare tracks all over the place where I took this shot. Of course, they would be difficult to see knowing they are as white as the snow—and their terrain is covered with thick bushes they use for cover against the many raptors in the area. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1250 at f/9, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 140, Handheld.

Lucky Horseshoe: For a horseshoe to be “lucky” it must be hung like the one above. If hung from a single nail, all of the luck runs out the bottom. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 450 mm, 1/1250 at f/9, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 280, Handheld.

Winter Window: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 450 mm, 1/1250 at f/9, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 160, Handheld.

Irrigation Equipment: These won’t be needed for quite some time. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 200 mm, 1/1250 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 125, Handheld.

Star Valley Barns: If I were at this spot at 7:00 am, I’d probably have processed some of these in color. The sun was fairly high in the sky, making them good candidates for black and white conversions. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 260 mm, 1/1250 at f/9, Manual Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 220, Handheld.

As a CUA Permit holder (Best of the Tetons Photo Tours), I receive emails from the Park Service on a regular basis. This one might be of interest:

Grand Teton Hosts Almost 3.3 Million Visits in Pandemic Year. 2020 is Fourth Highest Year Ever for Recreation Visits

MOOSE, WY- Grand Teton National Park hosted 3,289,639 recreation visits in 2020, the fourth highest number of recreation visits for one year in the park’s history. During 2020 the park was closed for almost two months, March 24-May 18, due to health and safety concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Compared to 2019, total recreation visits decreased by only 3.4%, despite the pandemic.

Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Chip Jenkins said, “National parks and public lands were extremely important to everyone this past year, providing fresh air, open space and respite from the pandemic. We anticipate that we will see continued high interest in visiting Grand Teton National Park.”

March 2, 2021 – Tuesday

Mountain Goat: I’ve heard a few reports of about eight Mountain Goats coming to the road in the Snake River Canyon, so I drove down today. That group didn’t show up, but I was able to photograph the single Mountain Goat on the other side of the river. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 200, Handheld.

Mountain Goat: Shooting Data: NIKON D500, Nikon 200-500 mm f/5.6 at 500 mm, 1/640 at f/8, Manual Mode, ‒ ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 100, Tripod

Great Horned Owl: This raptor was on a ranch entrance in Star Valley. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 125, Handheld.

Elk in the Feed Grounds: This feed grounds is a few miles south Alpine. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 450 mm, 1/1000 at f/8, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 100, Handheld.

Star Valley Tractor: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 420 mm, 1/1250 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 220, Handheld.

Barn Details: According to Robert Sloan, author of “An Age of Barns”, these are cupula ventilators, designed to let out heat. They often had lightning rods at their tips as seen on the one on the left. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 600 mm, 1/640 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 100, Handheld.

March 1, 2021 – Monday

Please take a minute and register to sign up to follow this site. I’d love to have another couple hundred new subscribers from the group visiting the site this winter. MJ

Jackson Hole March Morning: Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Nikon 24.0-70.0 mm f/2.8 at 24 mm, 1.30 seconds at f/4.5, Aperture priority Mode, ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 64, Tripod.

The Morning Story

The weather report called for “mostly sunny” for the 7:00am hour. I got up at 5:00 am and was out the door fairly quickly. The “plan” was to head farther north and try to get shots from Triangle X area, but as I drove by Snake River Overlook, I started running into a bank of low clouds. I turned back to Snake River Overlook, but the cloud bank had moved over the Grand. I drove to Teton View Overlook where I took this shot. A few minutes later, the clouds started covering the grand again, so I went jumped south to the Albreicht Turnout. I took the photo below from that spot. Same story…the clouds moved in so I sent south. The next stop was on the Moose-Wilson Road. I found a couple of wildlife subjects (you’ll see them below), then headed on home to keep an appointment at 10:30 am.

Morning Ribbon Clouds: Shooting Data: NIKON D850, Nikon 24.0-70.0 mm f/2.8 at 70 mm, 1/2 second at f/7.1, Aperture priority Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 64, Tripod.

First Light: The first few minutes of light on the Teton Range is always a special event. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 170 mm, 1/125 at f/8, Manual Mode, ‒ ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 320, Handheld.

Teton Range First Light: The last two photos were taken along the Moose-Wilson Road. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 170 mm, 1/125 at f/8, Manual Mode, ‒ ⅓ EV, Auto ISO 320, Handheld.

Vintage Postcards: If things go as planned I hope to upload several new Feature Posts in March showcasing old postcards from the JH area. One of the posts will feature Snake River Overlook over the years. Another one will feature postcards from the Moose (visitor’s center area) section of the park. Sign up to follow Best of the Tetons to receive an email version of the Feature Posts. Or…check back here numerous times over the month.

Moose Cow: Taken at the Death Canyon barricades on the Moose-Wilson Road. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 300 mm, 1/400 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 7200, Handheld.

Aspen Stand in Gold: Also taken along the Moose-Wilson Road. The deep snow covers a lot of the lower plants and “clutter”. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 100 mm, 1/400 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 110, Handheld.

Red Fox: While out of my vehicle taking photos of the aspen stand in the previous photo, I spotted the beautiful Red Fox. I spent around 45 minutes with her (?). Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 220 mm, 1/1250 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 200, Handheld.

Red Fox on the Move: Normally, on the first of the month, I try to move around the valley to get a wide variety of subjects, but with a Fox subject, I figured less (subjects) was good.Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 240 mm, 1/1250 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 220, Handheld.

Red Fox: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 480 mm, 1/1250 at f/6.3, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 1400, Handheld.

Red Fox: The Fox moved parallel to the road a considerable distance, then found a good place for a short nap. I took a LOT of photos at various zoom lengths while she was resting. She heard something and continued on her way. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 500 mm, 1/1250 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 125, Handheld.

Red Fox: Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 340 mm, 1/1250 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 280, Handheld.

Downey Woodpecker: Taken from the blind in my back yard. This female shows up fairly often. Shooting Data: NIKON D6, Sigma Sport VR 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3E at 450 mm, 1/1250 at f/7.1, Manual Mode, ‒ ²⁄₃ EV, Auto ISO 360, Handheld.

COVID-19 in Teton County, WY: March 1, 2021

Risk Level Moderate, 86 Active Cases (Wyoming Department of Health) :

There is a little good news! Teton County still has the most active cases of any county in the state, but the number has now dropped to under 140 and the Risk Level has been reduced from High to Moderate. Two counties now have zero active cases There are state, county, and city mask ordinances in place. The UK variant is in the area. I received my call from the Teton County Health Department letting me know I can get my first vaccine shot tomorrow afternoon.

February can also be good for Mountain Goats, Foxes, Sage Grouse, and Great Gray and Great Horned Owls. Each year is different, but each year seems to give us at least one “surprise” subject like last year’s Mountain Lion.

February 2021 Daily Journal For GTNP & JH

Remember, this is just the FIRST entry in the March 2021 Daily Journal for GTNP & JH. I’ll continue to add photos throughout all of February, so check back often. Also, much of February will resemble the last couple of weeks of January. Click the link above to visit the January page.

Winter Roads in JH and GTNP: Each year, I list off all of the road closures. Instead of that list this year, I created this map showing the roads that ARE open. The red dots indicate places where we are required to turn around. Click the map to see it much larger.COVID-19 Notes: We’ll be hanging a new calendar now, but unfortunately the Code-19 Pandemic will not be going away any time soon.

Welcome to March!

March often ushers in a welcome few changes. Mother Nature loosens its winter’s grip on Jackson Hole as days lengthen and temperatures moderate. As I write this first entry on March 1st, the early morning temperature was 3°F in the park. By the end of the week, forecasts call for highs in the mid-40s. Some of the wintering wildlife may begin to move around—especially by the end of the month. I might also expect to see a few colorful Mountain Bluebirds moving back for the summer. With that said, it’s still winter here and many of our park roads and access points are closed (See Map near the bottom of this page). During any particular week, another winter storm could again blanket the region with fresh white snow.

March “can be” a tough month for wildlife photographers, while it can be excellent for landscape photographers. I like both options, so I simply go out and try to capitalize on whatever presents itself. Photos in today’s entry should give you an idea of how any particular day can offer up a variety of surprises.

As always, you NEED to check back on this page regularly throughout the month March. I will be loading it with new photos, maps, links, and comments.

February 2021 Daily Journal For GTNP & JH

I renewed all of my permits and am accepting photo tours for 2021…with modifications!

The goal is to keep both of us safe, yet cover most of the same areas of the park.

I offer year round photo tours in Grand Teton National Park and Winter tours in the National Elk Refuge. Book now! Click the image for additional information.

Client Comments: “As a published and passionate photographer, I recognized Michael Jackson’s extraordinary skills as a photographer. Today I learned more about composition and creative technical ideas than I ever could have imagined.” G.S., Jackson Hole.

RavensTeton PeaksTetons in PinkToo Close for ComfortSunrise Clouds1934 Shell Map NW CornerHaynes 100 PostcardsSeller’s Jay

The post March 2021 Daily Journal For GTNP & JH first appeared on Best of the Tetons, Area Info & Photography.

Until the gates are opened, access is only a 3/4 mile easy hike over an asphalt road.

A Short Window of Solitude

Mid-March Weather

My Mid-May Trip to Mormon Row

Gear and Other Considerations

Mormon Row Related Posts

I renewed all of my permits and am accepting photo tours for 2021…with modifications!

The goal is to keep both of us safe, yet cover most of the same areas of the park.

March 31, 2021 – Wednesday

Subscribe to Best of the Tetons!

Other Wildlife

March 30, 2021 – Tuesday

March 29, 2021 – Monday

March 28, 2021 – Sunday

March 27, 2021 – Saturday

March 26, 2021 – Friday

The “Annual” JH Hill Climb is happening this weekend at Snow King Resort. It was a casualty of Covid-19 last year.

March 25, 2021 – Thursday

March 24, 2021 – Wednesday

New Feature Post : New Post Card Section!

Shane – Paramount’s Classic Western

March 23, 2021 – Tuesday

March 22, 2021 – Monday

Area Closure (Grizzly Activity)

March 21, 2021 – Sunday

Subscribe to Best of the Tetons!

Loose Ends

March 20, 2021 – Saturday – First Day of Spring!

Covid-19 Notes:

March 19, 2021 – Friday

March 18, 2021 – Thursday

March 17, 2021 – Wednesday – St. Patrick’s Day

March 16, 2021 – Tuesday

New Feature Post: Mormon Row: Mid-March Access and Tips

March 15, 2021 -Monday

Mid-Month Notes : Changes Abound!

Covid-19 Notes

March 14, 2021 – Sunday

March 13, 2021 – Saturday

March 12, 2021 – Friday

March 11, 2021 – Thursday

March 10, 2021 – Wednesday

I renewed all of my permits and am accepting photo tours for 2021…with modifications!

The goal is to keep both of us safe, yet cover most of the same areas of the park.

March 9, 2021 – Tuesday

March 8, 2021 – Monday

March 7, 2021 – Sunday

Covid-19 Notes

March 6, 2021 – Saturday

March 5, 2021 – Friday

March 4, 2021 – Thursday

March 3, 2021 – Wednesday

Grand Teton Hosts Almost 3.3 Million Visits in Pandemic Year. 2020 is Fourth Highest Year Ever for Recreation Visits

March 2, 2021 – Tuesday

March 1, 2021 – Monday

Subscribe to Best of the Tetons!

The Morning Story

COVID-19 in Teton County, WY: March 1, 2021

February 2021 Daily Journal For GTNP & JH

Welcome to March!

February 2021 Daily Journal For GTNP & JH

I renewed all of my permits and am accepting photo tours for 2021…with modifications!

The goal is to keep both of us safe, yet cover most of the same areas of the park.

RavensTeton PeaksTetons in PinkToo Close for ComfortSunrise Clouds1934 Shell Map NW CornerHaynes 100 PostcardsSeller’s Jay