October 31st, 2020 – Saturday – Halloween
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 fall. MJ
Remember to adjust your clocks tomorrow!
Unexpected Trip to Idaho Falls
Yesterday, while crossing a frozen stream, the ice broke. I fell forward but was lucky to be close to the bank when it happened. Other than a little scrape on my shin and a couple of wet feet, everything was fine. Neither my camera nor lens suffered damage. I didn’t notice it right away, but I lost my glasses. I couldn’t find them on the bank, so I assume they are somewhere in the creek. Long story short…I made an appointment with an optometrist in Idaho Falls for today. I drove there, took the exam, and came home with a brand new pair of glasses. (I needed the exam and new glasses even before my little dip in the stream)
On the way back, I stopped in Ririe, ID for a few photos.
I’ll be back in the field tomorrow and will create a new Daily Journal for November!
Ririe – Railroad Car Detail: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Ririe – Union Pacific Car: It looks like someone tried to paint over the old lettering, but it didn’t quite do the job. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Ririe – Tractor Details: I like trying to find interesting compositions in the busy scene. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Ririe – Tractor Steering Wheel: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Ririe – Tractor Steering Wheel & Light: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Ririe – Thrasher Pulleys: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Ririe – Pulleys and Sprockets: Needless to say, I was in Ririe late in the day when the shadows were long and interesting. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Ririe –Elevator Siding: Again, the shadows caught my eye. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Watch for the new November Daily Journal tomorrow.
October 30th, 2020 – Friday
Hoback and a Youngster: This shot illustrates Hoback’s missing antler. The left side is broken off just off the pad. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone’s Morning Drink: Yesterday, Shoshone was in the sagebrush, but he was in the river bottom today. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone and Hoback: These two bulls spent many days together when they were growing their antlers. They split up soon after stripping their velvet. I found them together again, but Hoback is now missing his distinctive left antler. Hoback quickly backed away when Shoshone approached him. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Hoback: Not to worry! He’ll lose both antlers in December and grow a new set next year! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone: It’s easy to see why I love photographing this majestic bull! He has a “lazy” left ear, but he can lift if when he needs it. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Comical Expression: A camera can occasionally freeze a split second in time revealing sometimes comical expressions. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Captured Leaves: There are still examples of foliage in transition, like these branches captured by the ice. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Ice Crystals: The formation on the right reminds me of an egg in a skillet. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Ice and Crystals: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
October 29th, 2020 – Thursday
Foggy Moose: We can get morning fog even on days when the forecast suggests clear skies all day. That’s what happened today. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Foggy Moose: This bull was seen near the Highway along the Gros Ventre River. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Moose Cow and Calf: Captured at Moose Junction. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Moose Calf: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone: This not a great shot, but I added it to show that Shoshone has moved out to the sage flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Hoback with Broken Antler: I had to go back to my September photos to verify it, but I am almost certain this is Hoback. I’ve heard other people tell me they saw him with a broken antler, but this morning was the first time I’ve actually seen him. It’s not a great shot…shooting into the sun. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
River Otters: Seen along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
River Otters: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
River Otters: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Random Notes
- The middle section of the Moose-Wilson has been closed early.
- The road down to Schwabacher Landing has been closed early.
- The Two Ocean Lake road is closed.
- The Inner Park Road between the Taggart Lake Trailhead and Signal Mountin will close on November 1st.
- The Murie Center road has been reopened.
- 399 and her four cubs moved south…all the way to the west side of Jackson
Black Hawthorn Berries: For some reason, the Black Bears neglected a lot of berries on the north end of the Moose-Wilson Road this year. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Great Horned Owl: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
October 28th, 2020 – Wednesday
Lots of photos today (again)!
My wife’s boss asked her to drive to Livingston, MT to pick up an eight week old Border Collie. Instead of letting her drive 10+ hours, I volunteered to do the driving to keep her from having to ride 10 hours with any of her friends (with or without a mask). As usual, I took my camera! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Teton Pass: Sunrise on our way out of town. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Eastern Idaho Rolling Hills: Taken near Felt, ID. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Idaho Grain Elevator: Taken in the evening near Ashton, ID. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Idaho Valley: Taken a few miles north of Felt, WY. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Railroad Tracks: Taken at Ashton, ID. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Moonrise over the Back Side: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Almost all of these are outside of the Jackson Hole Valley, but still in the Greater Yellowstone region. I have quite a few more…possibly good for a Feature Post.
Just for reference, this little “scheduled” trip should be my last one out of the valley for quite a while. With COVID-19 cases spiking in Teton County, and around the region, I am planning one pulling back into my “shell” for a while—much like a Hermit Crab! Much of my upcoming shooting will resemble my shooting during the March/April shutdown…but actually that is plenty doable.
October 27th, 2020 – Tuesday
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 fall. MJ
Lots of photos today!
Youngster: This little one is already getting the hang of a “lip curl”. He was spotted along the Gros Ventre drainage. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Frosty Moose: I am not quite sure if this is the same Moose I called “Laramie” last year, but he has several of the characteristics. Notice the snow on the ground from the snow storm that passed through Jackson Hole while Darla and I were in Denver. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Laramie 2019: I’ll check some more of last year’s photos, to compare the one I saw this morning with this bull from last year.
Ribbon Clouds: Last night’s weather forecast suggested clear skies today, but they missed it again. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
TA Moulton Barn Pano: Normally, I use a 24-70mm lens for this shot, but I had the Sigma Sport 60-600mm lens on my D6 this morning. I shot this as a pano, taking five or six verticals and then stitching them in Lightroom. Notice the new snow on the mountains and eve on the valley floor. It was cold today, so I wouldn’t expect much of the snow to melt today. Click this image to see it larger. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
John Moulton Homestead: A different view of the Homestead, taken from Antelope Flats Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Ice Crystals: This is the time of the year when Mother Nature puts on an abstract art show. The extreme cold temperatures freezes surface water in an endless array of patterns and textures. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Fence Post: The Park Service replaced some of the barbed wire with barbless wire a few years ago. Some of it is rolled up on the fence posts along Mormon Row. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Moose and Tetons: This would be “just another Moose in the sagebrush” except for the Teton Range backdrop. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Bull Moose and Mt. Moran: My preference is to photograph a bull with his ears forward and his head above his shoulders, but this bull didn’t cooperate! Close, but no cigar! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Moose in Sage: This bull has a broken tine on his right paddle and a unique left paddle. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Bighorns! It’s a couple of weeks early, but roughly 20 Bighorn Sheep have returned to the National Elk Refuge. The big weekend snow storm seems to have pushed them to Miller Butte early this year.
Bighorn Lamb: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Lamb: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
I paid my fees for my National Elk Refuge Permit last week to be able to start offering my custom Photo Tours beginning on November 1st.
I am accepting photo tours for the winter season…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. Seasons are changing! 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.
October 26th, 2020 – 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 fall. MJ
Home After Our Denver Road Trip:
Fall Leaves: Many trees in Denver are just now changing colors. I took these after a morning snow.
For anyone just checking in, Darla and I made a weekend road trip to Denver to see our oldest son. I took a few photos but had problems downloading the files to my old laptop. We are back, so I’ll post a few of them today. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Little Yoda Pumpkin: Anyone watching the Mandalorian show would recognize this figure. Tyler’s neighbor had several creative pumpkins on their doorstep. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Snow Texture: I took a few texture shots, including this one with snow texture over an asphalt parking lot. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Rusty Wheels: Tyler’s future Father-in-Law collects “rust” and displays it on a wooden fence. While waiting for the hamburgers, I took a couple of photos of his rusty prizes. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Tripod.
Rusty Pulleys and Chains: I waited until after the sun went down and used a small headlamp to light the elements. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Tripod.
Sinclair, WY: This Sinclair Oil Refinery is located just off of I-80. The old Lincoln Highway once ran through the main street. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Sinclair, WY: The warm steam was extremely well defined in the 10ºF ambient temperature. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Sinclair, WY: I took my “travel gear” which included only a Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm lens, along with a mid-weight carbon fiber tripod. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Wild Horses: There were several herds of Wild Horses grazing relatively close to the highway (about half way between Rock Springs and Eden). The herd had around 70 horses. The other two had roughly the same. They seemed a lot more spooky than the horses I’ve photographed near Cody, WY. This was one subject that made me wish I had taken my Nikon D6 and Sigma 60-600mm combo, and I wish had a lot more time to photograph them. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Wild Horses: The map below and links underneath it might help you find some of Wyoming’s Wild Horses! These were in the White Mountain HMA. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Wyoming – Herd Management Areas | Bureau of Land Management
Wyoming Herd Management AreasBLM Wyoming manages 16 wild horse herd management areas on nearly 5 million acres. The combined appropriate management level for all HMAs in the state is 3,725 animals. Explore Wyoming’s herd management areas using the links on the right. Learn more about wild horse gathers and removal actions in Wyoming.
October 25th, 2020 – 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 fall. MJ
On the Road: Comments from Denver
It snowed today here in Denver. I heard reports it snowed lightly in the Town of Jackson and a lot more in the Tetons.
I took a few snow/foliage photos, but am having trouble downloading them to my laptop.
Blondie: October 16
Blondie: October 16
Shoshone: October 2
October 23rd, 2020 – Friday
On the Road: Comments from Denver
I received a report from a friend in the Tetons. It was 10°F there this morning. Blondie was seen around Pilgrim Creek last evening. 399 was roaming around south of Signal Mountain after crossing the Snake River below the Jackson Lake Dam. Elk have been seen morning an evening around Willow Flats.
Shoshone: October 21st along the GV River.
Bison Bull: October 19 at Elk Ranch Flats.
October 22nd, 2020 – Thursday
Foliage Reports for September and October 2020
Also…check out this Feature Post: Polarizing Filters for Fall Foliage
Shoshone: Bighorn Lamb
On the Road!
Darla and I got up early and headed towards Denver this morning. I grabbed my Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm lens. There was an overnight snow in the Tetons and had snow and wind near Elk Mountain along I-80.
I’ll add a few unpublished JH photos on this page over the next few days along with a few photos from the Denver area. I heard 399 and her cubs were seen near Pilgrim Creek and Pilgrim Road this morning.
Great Horned Owl: This raptor was photographed south of town a couple of days ago. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
October 21st, 2020 – Wednesday
Shoshone: Seen along the Gros Ventre. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone and Little Challenger: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Shoshone and Challengers: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Shoshone: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Colorful Aspens and Stormy Skies: I took this photo in town as I was running a few errands. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bluejay! I was happy to see four Bluejays in my back yard. Hopefully, several of them will hang around all winter. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Red Squirrel: For years, I’ve had a Red Squirrel back yard visitor. I don’t know if it is the same one, but the current one is quick to show up when there are sunflower seeds around. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
October 20th, 2020 – Tuesday
Gos Ventre Sunrise: A quick stop along the GV River to catch the sunrise color. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Moose Bull Crossing Sage: Early morning bull. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Moose Bull in River Bottom: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
High Steppin’ Bull: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Mule Deer Doe: One of several Mule Deer seen near the Moose Visitor’s Center. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Aspen Trunks: Taken along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Death Canyon: Prime aspens along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bison at Water: I took this shot at Elk Ranch Flats as the Bison moved to water. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
October 19th, 2020 – Monday
Calf in Transition: This late season “Red Dog” is in the process of changing from rusty red to black and brown. The Bison were are Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Muddy Water Hole: It’s difficult to image this water is too healthy, but it doesn’t take much in the way of a water hole to quench their thirst. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bison on the Run: These guys are amazingly fast! Many tourists underestimate them. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bear in the ‘ Chair: Seen along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Aspens: While the yellow and gold leaves are on the ground in most areas of GTNP, Aspens are close to prime in a few areas along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
October 18th, 2020 – Sunday
Shoshone: Seen along the Gros Ventre this morning. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bison Courtship: Remnants of the rut seen at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Mountain Ash: Eye popping color on many trees and shrubs in the Town of Jackson. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
October 17th, 2020 – Saturday
Misc. Area Notes
- Early voting for Teton County residents is underway in the County Offices at Simpson and Willow. There are essentially no lines. An Official Ballot Drop Box is on the same corner.
- Crews in GTNP have removed the No Parking / No Walking / No Standing signs, the cones, and the brown stakes along the 1.8 mile section of the Moose-Wilson Road.
- Grizzlies have been active in the northern portion of the Park.
- The Signal Mountain Campground is scheduled to close on the 18th. It is the last day of legal camping in GTNP.
- The Elk Reduction Program (elk hunt) is probably already underway, however the GTNP web site has not been updated: https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/elkreduction.ht Their website says it begins in early October and ends in early December. It might be time to dig out your orange vests and hats again if in areas of the southern portion of the Park.
- The middle section of the Teton Park Road (Inner Park Loop Road) between the Taggart Lake Trailhead and Signal Mountain will close on October 31.
- The middle section of the Moose-Wilson Road between the Death Canyon Road and Granite Canyon Trailhead will close on October 31.
- The gravel section of Spring Gulch Road was under construction at times last week. I hear it is open again.
- The 2.5 mile section of Antelope Flats Road will remain open until mid-December.
Free COVID-19 Tests for Wyoming Residents
- Gov. Mark Gordon has authorized a FREE Covid-19 test for Wyoming residents. Go to https://www.vaulthealth.com/covid Note: fill out the form and you will see a $0 balance if you have entered a valid Wyoming address.
- Wyoming just reported its highest infection rate of Covid-19 on Friday.
Shoshone Resting: I haven’t seen this beautiful bull in a week or longer. He showed up not far off the highway today. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Mountain Ash Leaves and Berries: I stopped along Snow King Drive to take a few photos of the colorful Mountain Ash trees. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Great Horned Owl: A good stretch! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
October 16th, 2020 – Friday
Death Canyon: Taken along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D850 and Nikon 70-200mm Lens, Tripod.
Black Bear: Taken along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Black Bear: Also spotted along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Little House in Gold: Taken a few miles south Jackson. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Meadow Ranch Barn: Also taken south of Jackson.Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Great Horned Owl: I wanted to check out my Sigma Sport 60-600mm lens after it came back from the Sigma repair shop. I’ve been shooting it heavily for a year and it needed some cleaning and maintenance. It took it out hoping to find an owl or some sort of wildlife subject. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Great Horned Owl: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Great Horned Owl: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod..
October 15th, 2020 – Thursday
Pronghorn: This young buck stopped to take a drink in a frozen puddle in the fields north of Kelly. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bull Moose: This is a “new” Moose for the year. He doesn’t have a dewlap but otherwise has a nice pair of antlers. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bull Moose on the Move: I saw at least 10 Moose this morning. Five bulls were in one area! Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bondurant Lip Curl: Accented with cottonwood leaves. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bondurant Lip Curl: A humorous capture at the end of a “lip curl”. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Black Bear: Part of the reason I am making a late entry tonight is the fact I took just under 3000 photos today! Many of them were taken of a cooperative young Black Bear on the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Black Bear: This photo shows some of the remnant leaves in the Black Hawthorn bushes and aspens. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Black Bear: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Black Bear: Generally speaking, crowds have thinned some in GTNP. Still, I have a feeling some of the normal crowds are farther north looking for Grizzlies 399, 610 and Blondie. Reports suggest they were quite active today. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Black Bear: Heading to water. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
October 14th, 2020 – Wednesday
Black Bear with Black Hawthorn Berries: There are still a lot of berries on the bushes and trees along the Moose-Wilson Road. Some of the bears are quite acrobatic when trying to feed on them. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Bison and Cowbirds: Seen at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bison Bull and Hitchhikers: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Tetons with a Gold Cottonwood: Taken from Uhl Hill east of Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Tetons and Aspens: Taken along the north edge of Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bull Moose: I’ve heard about this Moose for a long time, but this was the first time I’ve actually seen him. He was on the move when I saw him, looking for a cow in the region. Watch him in the willows along the road to Two Ocean Lake. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Blondie: Blondie is back! Unfortunately, she appears to have lost her cub. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Blondie: She’s plump and beautiful! Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Blondie: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
October 13th, 2020 – Tuesday
Cottonwoods: A single shaft of light found its way to a row of Cottonwoods north of Kelly. I took a couple of long distant shots and kept on truckin’. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Mt. Moran Sunrise: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Moose Cow and Calf: Two of the 16 Moose I saw today. I passed up a few sots with three smaller bulls, hoping to find one of the larger bulls. These were along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Moose Cow and Calf: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Black Bear: Seen feeding along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Great Horned Owl: I talked to a photographer who took a photo of a Great Horned Owl along the Highway near the Gros Ventre Junction. I found this one south of town. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
October 12th, 2020 – Monday
T.A. Moulton Barn with iPhone: I had an interesting tour today. My clients had iPhones, so I used mine, too. iPhone 11 Max Pro.
John Moulton Homestead with iPhone: iPhone 11 Max Pro.
John Moulton Barn with iPhone: iPhone 11 Max Pro.
Chambers Homestead with iPhone: iPhone 11 Max Pro.
Beaver Creek with iPhone: iPhone 11 Max Pro on a tripod.
Aspen Trunks with iPhone: iPhone 11 Max Pro.
Death Canyon Pano with iPhone: This one was taken using the “Pano” feature within the iPhone. iPhone 11 Max Pro, handheld.
Black Bear: I used my D6 and telephoto for this shot. iPhones aren’t great for long distance, tight shots of wildlife. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Moose on the Move: Yesterday, I saw this bull near Dornan’s. He moved to Blacktail Ponds and disappeared. Today, we was almost to Death Canyon along the Moose-Wilson Road. In short, they are moving around a LOT right now. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
October 11th, 2020 – Sunday
Lots of Photos Today!
Antler Arches: Lit up for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I stopped to take this photo early as I was heading north out of town. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Mormon Row: The snow we received overnight melted quickly, but I managed to get a few shots. I don’t believe the Grand ever cleared. There was a brisk wind all day, so I suspect some of the leaves were blown off of the prime trees. Nikon D850 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.
Bull Moose: Bondurant still had some snow on his antlers when he stood up. His fur was still wet. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Bull Moose: After thrashing on a bush next to the Snake River, he took off north. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Hardiman Barn: I experienced bands of snow, then blasts of light. This is the barn in Wilson, home to the Raptor Center. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Mini Cascades: Captured on my way up Teton Pass. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Teton Pass: The upper mountains received a fair amount of snow. The Tetons will look great again after the low clouds lift. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Mountain Ash: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Idaho Barns: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Victor Barns: Nikon D500 and Tamron 180400mm Lens, Handheld.
Grunge: This old piece of farming equipment was next the road when I took the previous photo. Nikon D500 and Tamron 180400mm Lens, Handheld.
Idaho Country Roads: I noticed a lot of nice color on our return trip from Idaho Falls yesterday. This afternoon, I drove over for a lot of nice shots. I’ll add a lot more on the Foliage Reports for September and October 2020 page. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
October 10th, 2020 – Saturday
Black Bear: Yesterday, I was able to find a beautiful Black Bear out in the open. This morning, I wasn’t quite as “luck”. I only had a couple of hours to spend in the wilds before making a much needed trip to Idaho Falls, ID. The photo above is the “best” of 94 captures.I post this photo to show the “in the field” reality from day to day. Possibly, if I had been able to hang around, I might have had better “luck”. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Idaho Tractor: I like to take at least one camera with me, even when on a shopping trip. My “walkabout camera” combination is a Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm lens. It is lightweight and plenty capable. I spotted this on our drive back home. Harvest time has been in full force on the West side of the Tetons. Also, there are MANY beautiful stands of aspens at the base of the mountains on the Victor side of the pass. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
We are in store for a new weather front tonight, including possible snow. Hopefully, I can get out and capture a few seasonally unique images. MJ
October 9th, 2020 – Friday
Moose Lipcurl: Bondurant, seen near the Snake River and distant cottonwoods. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Bull Moose in Sage: I haven’t seen this nice looking bull until today. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Black Bear: Also seen along the Snake River. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Black Bear: Feeding on Black Hawthorn berries. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Black Bear: Black Bears can range in color from blonde, to cinnamon, to brown and black. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Log Crossing: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Stream Crossing: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Other Bears:
The Murie Center Road is closed to allow rangers to capture a pesky Black Bear. Other Black Bears are being seen in the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve and along the Moose-Wilson Road. 610 and her two cubs along with 399 and her four cubs have been seen around Oxbow Bend, Signal Mountain, Willow Flats, and the Jackson Lake Dam. Both families are roaming around and can be up Pacific Creek Road, Two Ocean Lake Road, and Pilgrim Creek Road.
October 8th, 2020 – Thursday
Sleeping Indian: Splendor via morning haze! Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Aspens and Hawthorns: Taken along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Pronghorn Buck: I saw this buck and two does crossing Antelope Flats early in the morning…before the sun cleared the eastern mountains. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Red Squirrel: Captured String Lake. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Mule Deer Doe: A splashy crossing at Cottonwood Creek.Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Young Bull Moose: On the move near the Moose Entrance Station. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Copter Rescue: I am sure the story will be in the newspaper tomorrow…a couple of people were air lifted out of the Tetons. Nikon D6 and Nikon 70-200mm Lens, Tripod.
Bar-B-C Rusting Vehicle: Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Bar-B-C Porch: The old Bar-B-C Ranch had as many as 100 structures in its heyday, hosting poets, writers, singers, and other well-to-do visitors during the summer months. Many of the structures are still standing. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Bar-B-C Cabin: Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Bar-B-C Lock Detail: Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Log End: Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Wasp Nest: This was spotted at the Bar-B-C ranch. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Bar-B-C Foliage: I probably should have gone to the ranch four or five days ago if I wanted to take photos with prime aspens behind the cabins, but there are still some beautiful stands of aspens and cottonwoods. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
October 7th, 2020 – Wednesday
Shoshone: Seen near the Snake River this morning. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Moose Cow and Bull: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Foliage in Motion: This is a great time to experiment with long exposure abstracts. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Seasons in Transition: The Black Hawthorn trees are changing from green to red, especially along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Sigma Sport 60-600 mm lens? A couple of people have asked me about the recent change from a Sigma Sport 60-600mm lens back to my Tamron 150-600 mm lens. Last week, I sent my Sigma lens to the service center for cleaning and maintenance. I’ve been using it regularly for one year.
Other Notes:
- Some of the Wildlife Brigade Volunteers will be leaving for the year.
- Haze and smoke has returned. The mountains were much more clear yesterday.
- Teton County is experiencing a surge in Covid-19, but I am now seeing more people wearing masks in the park.
- Lots of colorful foliage left in the Park, yet some of the zones or stands of trees are past prime.
- The ferry from Jenny Lake to Cascade Canyon is closed.
|
Campground
|
Seasonal closure date
|
|
Gros Ventre Campground
|
October 9
|
|
Jenny Lake Campground
|
Closed for season
|
|
Signal Mountain Campground
|
October 18
|
|
Colter Bay Campground
|
Closed for season
|
|
Colter Bay RV Park
|
Closed for season
|
|
Lizard Creek Campground
|
Closed for season
|
|
Headwaters Campground
|
Closed for season
|
October 6th, 2020 – Tuesday
Oxbow Bend: A few of the leaves have fallen in the middle section of the bank of Aspens, but it is still very nice. See more photos on the Foliage Reports for September and October 2020. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Tripod.
Shoshone: If you are looking for Shoshone, look in the area around the Snake River Bridge at Moose. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
Jenny Lake: Technically, this is Cottonwood Creek after it exits Jenny Lake. Nikon D500 and Tamron 18-400mm Lens, Handheld.
October 5th, 2020 – Monday
Moose at Blacktail Ponds: Seen early this morning just after he crossed the highway. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Moose at Blacktail Ponds: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Pronghorn. Buck: Captured in the Kelly hay fields. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Black Bear: Seen near the Visitor’s Center. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Black Bear: This one was feeding along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bison Eye: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Sparring Bison: The Bison herd was at Elk Ranch Flats today. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Red Dog: One of several late season Bison calves at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
October 4th, 2020 – Sunday
Fire in the Park: The JH News and Guide says there have been 11 forest fires in the past few days. The largest one is located on the forest north of Pilgrim Creek Road.
Pronghorn: Seen at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone: Seen agains the colorful river bottom shrubs. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Oxbow Bend Color: Still looking great! More foliage photos here: Foliage Reports for September and October 2020
October 3rd, 2020 – Saturday
Young Bulls:These two bulls are about the same size! Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Shoshone in Morning Light: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Sparring Youngsters: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Standing Black Bear: Captured near the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Black Bear: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Pronghorns: A doe and fawn resting near Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Trumpeter Swan in Gold: Taken at the Boyle’s Hill Swan Pond. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bull Elk: Taken near the Boyle’s Hill Swan Pond. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Pilgrim Creek Fire: This photo shows the Jackson Lake Lodge with the distant fire and smoke, taken from the road to the Jackson Lake Dam. Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
October 2nd, 2020 – Friday
Sunrise: This morning, a thin layer of smoke hovered along the Tetons at about half way up and above. The first light was red and pink, but it dulled quickly. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone Crossing: Taken against the fall colors. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Young Bull Moose: Cows will not mate with a youngster like this one, but it doesn’t stop them from trying. The larger bulls run them off if they get close to a cow. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Young Bull Moose: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Moose Lip Curl: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Shoshone in Gold: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Mid-sized Bull Moose: As I keep saying, the bulls are moving around looking for a single cow. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Blacktail Butte Sunrise: Colors of rose, peach, and pink are possible when smoke it lit by the morning sun. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Red Squirrel: Nikon D6 and Tamron 150-600mm Lens, Handheld.
October 1st, 2020 – Thursday
Fire in the Park: I saw a photo showing a forest fire north of the Jackson Lake Lodge. Hopefully, they will put this one out right away! More info tomorrow…
Bull Elk: To see Elk in Grand Teton National Park, you have to be up VERY early! In most cases, they’ll be back in the trees before the sunlight hits them. I took these from Windy Point. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Beanbag.
Bull Elk: I usually shoot over a beanbag at this time of the morning. Elk spook quickly if they see a human figure, so I stay either inside my truck and shoot over the window, or stand behind my truck. The beanbag helps a lot. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Beanbag.
Chapel of the Transfiguration: In most years, visitors can go through the gates and enter the Chapel, but it has been closed all summer. The Aspens are yellow behind it right now. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens,Handheld.
Color Abounds!: As of the first of the month, many areas have plenty colorful trees. There’s a lot more info and more photos on this page: New: Foliage Reports for September and October 2020 Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Shoshone: This is a great time to try to put wildlife in front of gold leaves if you can do it! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Shoshone in Gold: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Pronghorn Buck: Bison are moving to and from the Mormon Row and Antelope Road area. At times, it seems they have disappeared! Pronghorns are visible on most days in those areas. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone: Bulls are moving around the valley. The Gros Ventre has numerous bulls, along with the Snake River bottom and other smaller tributaries. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Black Bear: Your best bet to see a Black Bear is along the Moose-Wilson Road. The are actively feeding on Black Hawthorn berries. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Reflected Trunks: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Black Hawthorn Berries: Many of the Hawthorn bushes are still green, but some of them are changing to bright red and orange. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Fall Moose: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Teton Sunset: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Oxbow Bend Morning Pano: I didn’t have a chance to make it to Oxbow this morning, but this photo from yesterday should show what it looks like at the beginning of October. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
October! Just a few quick notes:
- October days will be shorter and cooler, but you will likely still need to be out early to see Elk, Moose, and Deer.
- The bright green grass of spring and early summer are drying out and turning gold or rusty orange.
- Snow is possible, especially in the high country. Snow helps make the fall foliage even more dramatic.
- The Bison rut is over. Watch for them at times in the southern portion of the park and around Elk Ranch Flats.
- Bull Elk are in the rut. Listen for their distinctive “bugle” along the base of the mountains and river bottoms!
- Bull Moose will be in the rut through the first half of October. Bulls scatter throughout the valley looking for cows.
- Grizzly Sow 399 with her four cubs and 610 with her two cubs will likely be visible around Oxbow Bend and Willow Flats.
- Black Bears feed on ripening berries along the base of the mountains. The Moose-Wilson Road will have limited access again this year.
- Pronghorns will be visible during the middle of the day. You can find them along most of the valley floor.
- Wildflowers are essentially gone now.
- Leaves change colors in at different times across the valley, Some areas are peak. Some are just beginning.
September 2020 Daily Journal for Jackson Hole and GTNP
The first few days of October should resemble the last week or so of September, so be sure to check that page. IT IS LOADED with photos intentionally focused on offering a wide variety of subjects. Same for August!
I am accepting photo tours for the fall and early winter…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. Seasons are changing! 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.
