December 31st, 2020 – Thursday – New Year’s Eve
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
It was too cloudy to try again for a setting full moon this morning.
Fireworks Tonight: I believe there will be fireworks at both Snow King Resort and at Teton Village just after dark tonight.
Bighorn Ram and Ewe: I did a quick run to the National Elk Refuge and found a few Bighorns near the road. Rams are still interested in the ewes. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: Another portrait of one of the biggest rams. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
399 and her cubs are being reported moving north towards their winter den as 2020 ends!
December 30th, 2020 – Wednesday
SRO Alpenglow with Setting Moon: Up early…14ºF, but worth it! Click this pano image to see it much larger. Nikon D850 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Tripod.
Bighorn Ram at the Rocks: This nice looking ram was guarding a nearby ewe at the rocks of Miller Butte. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Lil’ Head Bashers: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
The Acrobat: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 29th, 2020 – Tuesday
Snake River Bend: I was out early this morning, thinking there might be some fog along the valley floor. Skies were clear, but for only a few minutes a couple of clouds formed over the Tetons. It was -24°F when it took this photo! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Morning Light Rays: I took this shot along the Snake River at Willow Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Winter Bison Pair: These two were part of a herd of Bison I saw a couple of miles south of Triangle X. I didn’t see any at Elk Ranch Flats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
399 and Quad Cubs: The extra large family was heading north today. They crossed the road near Antelope Flats Road and continued on north up the Snake River. She is probably heading for her winter den after feeding on elk carcasses and gut piles in the southern end of the park. All of them look plump and healthy! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
399 and Single Cub: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Grizzly 399: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Oxbow Bend: I took these three photos earlier this morning, but just got around processing them. There is a lot more snow in the north and along the base of the Tetons than on the sage flats on the east side of the valley. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Frosted Willow Flats: I liked all of the layers in this shot. The steam from the river helped isolate the pines and spruce trees in the middle section, just as the sun hit them. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Frosted Willow Flats: I seldom find much wildlife when I go north in the winter. It’s possible to see a Fox or maybe some otters, but most of the big game animals have moved south. Occasionally, I hear rumors of Wolves in the area, and I know there are a few Coyotes. When the Oxbow is frozen over, Swans, Geese, and Ducks are absent. The road to the base of the Jackson Lake Dam is snowed in, but it is possible to walk down to the river from the parking area on the south side. Also remember, there are no stores or gas stations open in the winter, other than the ones at Dornan’s near Moose Junction in the southern portion of the park. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 28th, 2020 – Monday
Morning: I took this shot from the Moose-Wilson Road, aiming southeast towards Jackson Peak. When I took the shot, it felt like I was level based on the upright trees. When I got ready to process it, I saw what looked like a horizon line just below the fog bank, so I straightened the photo. That caused all of the trees to lean to the left. Hmmmmm. My original shot was the correct one! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Frosted Aspens: Morning light and long shadows caught my eye in this shot. The aspens were frosted from the overnight fog and low clouds in the area. You might not notice it originally, but the tram tower for the JH Mountain Resort can be seen at the top fo the snow covered peak in the upper left. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Newest Feature Post!: A Jackson Hole Winter in Black and White
It’s been a while since I made a feature post. Sorry about that! Click the link or the photo above to see the new page, loaded with black and white photos all taken in December. I posted this photo last night at 10:30 pm. Check it out!
December 27th, 2020 – Sunday
Young Bull Moose: This morning, I saw a bull Moose with fairly nice antlers in the open sagebrush near Ditch Creek. He was far enough out, that I couldn’t get a great look at him, but I figured there weren’t a lot of big bulls still carrying their antlers. On the hike out, I snapped the photo of the small bull. After walking several hundred yards, I couldn’t see the big bull anymore. Sure enough, he bedded down at about the time I was ready to head his direction. I snapped the inset photo at a very long distance, just to show his antlers. I post this photo, not because it’s a great photo, but to make a point. Some people suggest that the largest bulls drop their antlers before the youngsters. I just can’t see that pattern holding up! I know I’ve seen quite a few of the smaller bulls with missing antlers, yet Hoback still has his big anther and Bondurant still had his the last time I saw him. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 26th, 2020 – Saturday
Hoback: This bull has had only one full antler for a long time. The other side has only a small stub. Bull Moose season is almost over! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Young Moose: Light snow and a moose close enough for a shot. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Foggy Swans: Taken at the Kelly Warm Springs. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorns: I heard quite a few head bashes, but they were higher on the distant rocks. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: It’s hard to pass up an opportunity to get a face shot of the biggest ram when he is near, or on the road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
399 and her cubs were reported around the Gros Ventre this morning. I waited a while, but didn’t want to invest too much of my day on them.
December 25th, 2020 – Christmas Day
Best Wishes for a Great and Safe Holiday Season: From the Jackson Family — Mike, Darla, Tyler, Corey, and Macey! I’m sure Shoshone wishes you the same.
December 24th, 2020 – Christmas Eve
Bondurant: It’s almost Christmas…so I wouldn’t expect the big bulls to have antlers much longer! I spent quite a bit of the morning, trying to line this bull up with Mt. Moran and then hoping he’d raise his head and look my direction. Not to be! He was more interested in eating the bitter brush. I got a few profile shots like this one, but not the ones I would have preferred! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorns: If this photo looks cold to you, well it was cold while Miller Butte was still in the shadows. Normally, the light starts hitting the rocks between 10:00 am and 10:30 am. at this time of the year. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorns: The larger ram was staying between the younger ram and his resting ewe. I believe the rut is just getting into full swing. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
I just posted this video on Instagram showing a couple of landscapes and a couple of red Foxes. Click the image to view it on Instagram. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Red Fox: One of two Red Fox photos included in the Instagram Video. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Seasons Greetings from Best of the Tetons!
December 23rd, 2020 – Wednesday
Trumpeter Swan: The weather report called for clear skies but clouds covered the top half of the Tetons. I saw more than a dozen Moose, but the only one I saw with antlers was way too far out. I found Swans in the Kelly Warm Springs. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Trumpeter Swans: It was 0°F when I took this shot. Steam has frosted the bushes and grass around the Kelly Warm Springs. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Kelly Wagons: The light was too pretty on the wagons at the entrance to pass up! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 22nd, 2020 – Tuesday
Winter Sunrise Clouds: The clouds that prevented me from seeing the Christmas Moon last night began to break up some at sunrise this morning. I took this shot from the Gros Ventre Road. Yesterday, it was very warm in the region, melting a lot of the s now on the valley floor. I would predict the Elk Refuge Sleigh Rides will be on wagons for a few days. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
The Grand and Morning Clouds: Strong winds blew across the Teton Range. I waited for a few seconds of clearing. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Simple Scene: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
The Grand and Clouds: On a morning like this (and with winds), the scene is constantly changing. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Chase: Action on the National Elk Refuge. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn with Blowing Snow: While it might not look like it, the wind was blowing from left to right! Taken at Miller Butte on the National Elk Refuge. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Ram in Grass: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Snow Covered Ewe: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Hairy Woodpecker: A shot still on the card from yesterday. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
December 21st, 2020 – Monday – Winter Solstice
Sky Notes
Winter begins today, the shortest day of the year! If the sky is clear enough, here are some subjects to watch:
- Early Christmas Present for Skywatchers: The Ursid meteor shower is set to peak on Dec. 22.
-
‘Christmas Star’ to Grace Night Sky on Winter Solstice (Conjunction of Saturn and Jupiter)
Winter Bull Moose: I counted over 20 Moose this morning, but only a few were close enough to the road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 20th, 2020 – Sunday
Bighorn Pair: Love is in the air at the National Elk Refuge. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Rams: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: When the rams are not courting the females, they take time to graze on the grasses. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram:Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Back Yard Birds, Etc.
Red Squirrel: Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Clark’s Nutcracker: It seems too quiet when these birds are not around! Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
December 19th, 2020 – Saturday
Distant Moose: There were at lease four bulls in this group of Moose. They were WAY too far for any kind of quality shooting, but I wanted to include this photo today to show the valley floor. Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Changing Diet: While the group of ten or eleven Moose were still grazing on bitter brush, many of them seem to be moving to the river bottoms where they are switching back twigs, leaves and small branches. Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Young Moose: There was a brisk, cold south wind this morning. Often, they move off the sage flats to find more favorable conditions among the trees. Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Wagon Wheels: Before too long, subjects like this will be buried in snow. I thought the fresh snow made them interesting today. Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Digging Lamb: I found around 30 Bighorns down today. They are pawing through the snow to get to the grasses below. The wind and blowing snow seemed to put the wildlife into “survival” mode vs participants in the rut. Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Back Yard Birds
Spotted Towhee: Finally! This bird came out into the open and on a perch! They are great at staying in the underbrush and out of range for good shots. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
At noon, I looked out back and saw a Clark’s Nutcracker, Hairy Woodpecker, Bluejay, and a Steller’s Jay, all in my yard at the same time.
December 18th, 2020 – Friday
River Otters: A group of three River Otters were along Flat Creek this morning. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Fiery Light: Taken towards the southeast corner of the valley. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
River Otters: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
River Otter and Cutthroat Trout: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
River Otters: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Sunrise Peaks and Hanging Clouds: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Grand Peaks: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
The Grand: I took this photo from the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Cattails: Also taken along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Downhill: Freemont (one of the largest bull in the area) lost one of his antlers. He was heading to the river bottoms on the Snake River. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Rams: Seen in the afternoon along Miller Butte. Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Trumpeter Swan: Captured a few minutes before last sunlight along Flat Creek. Nikon D850 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 17th, 2020 – Thursday
Shoshone: He’s a “super star” in GTNP! Everyone is always looking for him and when he is visible, he draws a big crowd. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone: Fresh snow and Blacktail Butte. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone: After feeding and putting on a good show, he bedded down in the fresh December snow. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Antelope Flats Road is now CLOSED!
You can still hike out to Mormon Row.
Bighorns: This youngster got a little too close to the ram and his ewe. The youngster looks a lot like a carousel figure. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone: I went back to the location I left Shoshone this morning. He he had been bedded down in the exact same spot for a least four hours. I waited until he got up for his evening meal and added a few more Shoshone photos to my library. There’s a good chance today will be the last day I see him with antlers this year, so the extra trip seemed worth the gamble and time. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Cowboy Bar: A bit of nostalgic “Americana” in downtown Jackson. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
December 16th, 2020 – Wednesday
Ridge Line Sentinel: One of the biggest ram showed up again today. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Ram Portrait: I am pretty sure this is the same old ram we used to call “Old Broken Nose”. He had a swollen muzzle all winter, but it looks like the scab is about the only remnant of the day. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Lambs: A sweet moment! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: This ram was looking over me and towards a couple of rams on the butte behind me. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Elk Refuge Sleigh Rides: The sleighs take visitors very close to relaxed elk. There are a few bulls in the group. Each week, more and more will gather in the grassy zones visible from the highway. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Trumpeter Swans: I took these photos from the observation platform along Flat Creek. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Trumpeter Swans: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Refuge Coyote: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 15th, 2020 – Tuesday
Three Bulls: I counted over 20 Moose this morning. Eight of them were close enough today! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Sparring Bulls: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Sparring Bulls: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Frosted Peach House: Even on a very cold day, the sun quickly melts the early morning hoar frost clinging to trees and sage. You have to get the shots quickly! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
TA Moulton Barn: Antelope Flats Road is still open, along with part of the Mormon Row Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Frosted Corner Post: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Incoming Sleighs: The Elk Hunt ended on December 13th. The Sleigh Rides on the National Elk Refuge began yesterday. I caught this group making their way to the office this morning. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorns on Ridge: The rut is just getting going on the National Elk Refuge. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
December 14th, 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
Time to retire your hunter orange vests, jackets, and stocking caps for another year—at least for the Elk Hunt in Grand Teton National Park and the National Elk Refuge. The hunt ended yesterday. Bison are still being hunted in the National Elk Refuge, but that usually happens well out of sight.
Light Snow: Until today, some of the secondary two track roads have been left open for the hunters, but as of today, the “power line road” has been plowed in. The Warm Springs (running parallel with the Kelly Warm Springs outlet) road appeared to be open, however. Access to some of the bull Moose will be much more limited. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
- As of this morning, Antelope Flats Road was still open and was being plowed. I don’t know how long they will leave it open?
- Tomorrow, the Snake River bottom from Moose Headquarters to Pacific Creek will be closed to human entry.
- The Sleigh Rides into the Elk begin today on the National Elk Refuge.
Lip Curl in Snow: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Historic Miller House: Fresh snow on the hillsides at the National Elk Refuge. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Chase: The Bighorns were active this afternoon! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Chase: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Chase: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorns: These shots were all cropped from long distance captures. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 13th, 2020 – Sunday
The Elk Reduction Program (Elk Hunt) in Grand Teton National Park is over as of the end of today. We can put our orange vests away for another year!
Bighorn Ram: One of the big boys at Miller Butte. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: A lip curl on the National Elk Refuge. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bohemian Waxwing: The Black Bears left the Moose-Wilson Road before all of the berries were gone. Bohemian and Cedar Waxwings have found them. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bohemian Waxwings: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bohemian Waxwings: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bohemian Waxwing: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Cedar Waxwing: This species is smaller than the Bohemian Waxwings and have more yellow in their chest. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 12th, 2020 – Saturday
Bighorn Ram and Ewe: I had planned on heading north out of town to look for Moose (again), but something told me I should check out the National Elk Refuge instead. I shot this image long before there was a reasonable amount of light! The shutter speed was all the way down to 1/60th second, F-6.3 (wide open), and the resulting ISO was 2000. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: This nice ram was “in the rocks”, which I like much better than when they are on the road or on flat ground (unless they are bashing heads). Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorns in the Rut: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
The Rut: Things looked promising! Two of the large rams were interested in a single ewe, but they didn’t bash heads. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Portrait: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Eye: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Snow Capped Ram: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Trumpeter Swan: There’s some open water on Flat Creek now. I took this one is the early morning light. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Trumpeter Swan: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Back Yard Birds
House Finches: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
December 11th, 2020 – Friday
Shoshone: Overnight snow topped off the sagebrush and covered the Moose feeding on the bitter brush. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bison Bull and Cow: There’s a good sized herd of Bison hanging around near the Mormon Row Barns. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
John Moulton Homestead: Snow changes everything! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
John Moulton Barn: Snow and low clouds simplify the landscape. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Small Cabin: Even with light snow, a bit of filtered light his the small cabin on the National el Refuge. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Back Yard Birds
Steller’s Jay: Throughout most of the Winter, most of the birds that visit my back yard are either gray, black, white, or brown. Flickers can have a little orange and Woodpecker Males have a patch of red, but again, most other birds are relatively neutral. It is great to see some bright colors, as seen with Steller’s Jays and Bluejays. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
December 10th, 2020 – Thursday
I drove back into the park last night for a “chance” to see the Northern Lights, but the clouds had already rolled in. Reports suggest that tonight could also be good for the Northern Lights, but as you can see below, I probably won’t see them.
December 10 Weather Report: After a fairly long dry spell, it looks like Jackson Hole will start getting new snow. (We need it!)
Frosted Coyote: More than likely, this is the same Coyote I photographed a few days ago. He was aware of me, but stayed on his hunting route. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Frosted Coyote: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Frosted Coyote: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Hoback: Hoback is still carrying one of his impressive antlers. I photographed him a lot back in late August and early September when he was hanging with Shoshone. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shared Space: The Mallards continued to feed, even with a lumbering dark object only a few feet away. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Trumpeter Swan: Flat Creek is still frozen, so watch for Trumpeters and other waterfowl in spring fed pools. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Trumpeter Swans: The colors were so rich in this one! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Sheep: So far this year, I haven’t seen as much rut behavior at Miller Butte. The sheep are there, however! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Back Yard Stuff
Red Squirrel: This squirrel is a regular visitor. She’s a great “poser”, too. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Bluejay: The morning clouds thinned some by noon. I took these shots just after having lunch. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Hairy Woodpecker: In most years, I get both Hairy Woodpeckers and Downey Woodpeckers. Maybe a few of the smaller ones will show up later in the Winter. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Red-breasted Nuthatch: These are noticeably smaller than the White-breasted Nuthatches, but are equally jittery. Occasionally, they’ll pause for a split second as they check the area for threats. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
December 9th, 2020 – Wednesday
Backlit Bull Moose: You can see a bit of the steam coming out of his mouth as the sun cleared the mountains and backlit the subjects. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Shoshone: Nice to see this old fella still has his antlers! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Anterless Bull Moose: This bull has a ragged left ear. Based on the fluid dripping and frozen from the antler pad, it appears he lost the antler quite recently. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bondourant: I saw close to 30 moose today. If you want to catch the bulls with their antlers, looks like you better hurry. The shed seems to be happening earlier than normal this year. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
John Moulton Homestead: Many of my favorite photos of the Mormon Row barns and homesteads are taken from less common locations. The frosted trees and low band of clouds were particularly appealing to me this morning. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
John Moulton Homestead: We’ve had an extended period of high pressure in Jackson Hole, giving us clear skies. If you put much stock in the weather forecasts, there is a new front headed our way which will bring in clouds and some potential snow. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
The Elk Reduction Program (GTNP Elk Hunt) ends at the sunset on December 13th. The Park Service usually keeps Antelope Flats Road open for the hunters, but are quick to barricade the road after the hunt. With the snow storms on the way, I am expecting them to close it sooner than later. Get your shots while you can!
December 8th, 2020 – Tuesday
Sparring Bull Moose: I managed to get out early today and found a couple of bulls close enough to photograph. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
River Otter: Seen along the icy shore 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.
Other Wildlife
- It has been a while since anyone has seen 399 and her four cubs, but she was apparently spotted by a hunter on Blacktail Butte yesterday. This ends speculation that she might have already headed to her winter den.
- A large herd of Bison has moved south and were in the area north of the Mormon Row Barns.
Wagon Wheels: I photographed these wheels on December 1st and posted them in the December Daily Journal. As I drove down Mormon Row, I noticed the interesting long shadows and warm morning light so I snapped another couple of photos. The December 1st photos were taken with overcast skies, for a completely different look. Scroll down to see it! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Back Yard Birds
Hairy Woodpecker: This shot was still in the camera from photos I took yesterday afternoon. It has been a good year for Woodpeckers! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
White-breasted Nuthatch: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
December 7th, 2020 – Monday
Mallard Duck: Mallards are common around Jackson Hole, but I think they are fun to photograph, especially with good light and conditions. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Mallards: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Mallard Duck on Ice: The entire area of Flat Creek in front of the observation platform is frozen solid right now, but there are pockets of open water here and there. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 6th, 2020 – Sunday
Buck Mule Deer: Very early in the morning at the edge of Kelly. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Lifting Fog: First light on Miller Butte. I went there looking for Bighorns and hoping to see a few of them head bashing. They were around but not active early. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Little Cabin: I also did a quick run south of town looking for Great Horned Owls. I didn’t see them so I stopped for a few foggy landscapes. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Little Cabin: I’ve always liked all of the compositional elements with this scene. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 5th, 2020 – Saturday
TA Moulton Barn: Frost on the trees…snow on the barn! Taken just after the sun hit the valley floor. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Frosty Trees: Taken from Antelope Flats Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Brook Trout for Breakfast: Active River Otters along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
River Otter: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
River Otter and Trout: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Rams and Ewe: The big ram is protecting his ewe below. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Chase: Younger rams chasing a ewe along the rocks on Miller Butte. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 4th, 2020 – Friday
Early Bird Entry (last night’s photos)
December Milky Way: The “new moon” will not happen until December 14. A lot of photographers come to Jackson Hole on or around the new moon, but it’s possible to start photographing the Milky Way three or four days after the full moon. I drove out Thursday evening for a few night time photos. Nikon D6 and Sigma 24mm F/1.4 Art Lens, Tripod.
Milky Way: I took this group at Snake River Overlook. No one else was there, of course. Nikon D6 and Sigma 24mm F/1.4 Art Lens, Tripod.
Stars Over the Tetons: Nikon D6 and Sigma 24mm F/1.4 Art Lens, Tripod.
Night Time Driving in the Tetons
The night time speed limit in Grand Teton National Park is only 45mph. During the daylight hours, the highway speed limit is 55mph and 45mph on most of the inner roads. The reduced speed is enforced 30 minutes after sunset and until 30 minutes before sunrise. Good to know!
A few years ago, I was driving north to Oxbow Bend for the late September sunrise. Of course, to get there early enough, the drive is in the darkness of night. September is a time of the year when Moose, Elk, and Bison are on the move at night. A few miles south of Moose Junction, a SUV passed me going well over 45mph. Frustrating! Just before they made it to the “climbing rocks”, I saw their brake lights, then saw their vehicle swerve. AS I made it to their stopped vehicle, I could see an injured Moose off to the side and their damaged vehicle. I heard later the Park Service had to put down the bull Moose. So sad. Tonight, essentially same thing happened. I was going 45mph and a white Ford pickup passed me at almost the same spot as before. Frustrating! Actually, I was angry this time as I remembered the dead Moose. Another vehicle approached and passed me, but this one was a Teton County Sheriff. At about the same place the other SUV hit the Moose, the Sheriff’s red and blue flashing lights came on. YES, YES, YES! I definitely had a smile on my face as I drove by them.
Morning Photos
White Rainbow – (Sometimes called a Fog Rainbow): It is not uncommon for me to drive down Antelope Flats Road. You never know what might pop up (bears, coyotes, foxes, wolves, ermine, bison, etc). This morning, fog was covering everything in the Mormon Row area, but it felt like it was about to lift. I started out with my Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm lens for some “standard” fog shots as each building began to reveal itself. That’s when I noticed the bright white shape over the Peach House. Wow! I had to run back to the car to grab a D850 and 24-70mm lens for this image. To get the entire rainbow, I took two shots and later stitched them in Lightroom. This is the first time I have ever been able to photograph an entire White Rainbow. Nikon D850 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.
White Rainbow: I moved to the left to help center the buildings, but the event was beginning to break up. You can see the remains of the moon in this one. Nikon D850 and Nikon 24-70mm Lens, Handheld.
Lifting Fog Pano: Click the image to see it larger. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Foggy Kingfisher: These birds have some sort of “camera radar”. They always fly as soon as I raise the camera to my eye. I like this one because of the foggy look. This was taken along the Moose-Wilson Road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Two Big Bulls: If these bulls had been up when I saw them, I might have spent some time trying to get better shots, but they often stay down for several hours after their morning feeding sessions. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Chapel of the Transfiguration: Normally, people try to include the Grand behind the Chapel photos but the fog obscured the Teton Range this morning. The fog helps define the cross and buildings, lit by the filtered morning light. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Chapel of the Transfiguration: Currently the road into the Chapel area is still “slightly open”. The snow plow driver pushed a berm up at the Park Road, but a couple of vehicles have driven through it. Lacking any signs or barricades, I followed the tracks. If you want shots from there, I’d suggest going soon. This one is very similar to the previous photo, but I like both. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Chapel of the Transfiguration: I like this angle and composition, but hate the two signs on the right side. You can see I was able to eliminate the signs in the previous two shots. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Chapel of the Transfiguration: This angle helps cover the annoying sign, yet still has a workable composition. Note: Due to the Pandemic, the Chapel and surrounding area was closed throughout all of 2020. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Afternoon Photos
Freemont: In the afternoon, I returned to the spot I saw the two bulls and found them up and feeding. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bondurant: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Freemont and Bondurant: There were actually three bulls in the area. Sadly, one of them has already lost both antlers for the season. It’s a bit early, but I guess seeing the one today is a harbinger of things to come. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 3rd, 2020 – Thursday
It’s only the third day of December, but I can say I am already quite satisfied with the photos so far. Lots more to come, so check in often throughout the rest of the month!
John Moulton Homestead: An early morning band of light hitting the sagebrush behind the barns, along with the bottom of the low clouds. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
White-tailed Buck: Normally, White-tails bound off when I’ve tried to photograph them. Yesterday, this buck rambled along near the outlet at the Kelly Warm Springs. I shot from my car to keep from spooking him. After he crossed the stream, I discovered he wasn’t alarmed by my presence, I told myself I’d like to be a lot lower if I ever got another chance. He crossed the same areas this morning, so I found better vantage points for today’s photos. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
White-tailed Buck: The overnight temperature dropped to -4ºF, allowing the warm water from the springs to frost the nearby grass. Very pretty in the early morning light! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
White-tailed Buck: I’d love to find a large cooparative White-tailed buck someday, but this one will work. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
White-tailed Buck: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
White-tailed Buck: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Sleeping Indian: I don’t think I’ve every taken this shot. I zoomed in on the rock formations today. The morning light and the snow helped accent the rocky ledges. While most people call it Sleeping Indian, it is also called Sheep Mountain. I am sure some of the Bighorns that winter on Miller Butte spend their summers on the rocky cliffs there. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Volkswagen: I’ve seen a colorful old Volkswagen parked around town over the past month or two. I saw it parked along the road this morning as I was driving home from the Elk Refuge. I stopped for a couple of shots. Hard to say how many different coats of paint its had over the years. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Snow King: Snow King Resort opened for skiing a few days ago. They are running the snow making guns to augment the natural snow. It’s plenty cold for the snow making this year! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Great Horned Owl: An afternoon shot taken south of town. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
December 2nd, 2020 – Wednesday
Sunrise Ridge: I was out early, ready for a great sunrise, but clouds were not floating above the Tetons. Alpenglow happens for a short period even if there aren’t clouds to go with the scene. I like this spot along the Gros Ventre Road and stop when conditions are right. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
White-tailed Deer: I took this shot at the Kelly Warm Springs. White-tailed Deer are much less common in GTNP than Mule Deer. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Teton Ribbon Clouds: I snapped this photo from Moose Junction. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: Rut behavior at the National Elk Refuge. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Road Closure: I you drive roughly four miles on the Elk Refuge Road, you’ll find this sign and barricade. Hunters with permits are still allowed do use the road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Log Ends: Around here, I could find lots of similar opportunities as residents stock up on firewood they’ll use this winter. I thought the variety sizes was interesting and worth a quick shot. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Back Yard Birds
Steller’s Jay: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
Hairy Woodpecker: Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Tripod.
December 1st, 2020 – Tuesday
Welcome to December!
November 2020 Daily Journal for Jackson Hole and GTNP
The first few days of December should resemble the last week or so of November, so be sure to check that page. IT IS LOADED with photos intentionally focused on offering a wide variety of subjects. Same for October!
Top Features for December
There are four or five major wildlife subjects in December: Moose, Bighorns, Swans, Elk, and Mountain Goats. While concentrating on those subjects, watch for the smaller ones like owls, foxes, pine Martens, ermine, river otters, and badgers… just to name a few! You might even spot one of the Grizzly families as they move around looking for kills and gut piles.
- Wear orange in the Elk Hunt zones in the southern section of the Park. (See Map) The hunt ends on December 13
- Watch for random sightings of Badgers, Ermine, Otters, Owls, Foxes, Wolves, and Bears.
- A beautiful layer of snow now covers the mountains.
- The Sleigh Ride on the National Elk Refuge begins December 14.
Random Notes
- The middle section of the Moose-Wilson is Closed.
- The road down to Schwabacher Landing is Closed.
- The Two Ocean Lake road is Closed.
- The Inner Park Road between the Taggart Lake Trailhead and Signal Mountain is Closed.
- The road north at the end of the Elk Refuge Road is closed.
- Antelope Flats Road will remain open until at least December 14.
COVID-19 Notes
- The pandemic still has a grasp on Teton County and the State of Wyoming.
- Statewide infection rates are continuing to go up. The Governor contracted Covid-19.
- St. John’s Hospital is at full capacity.
- Masks are still required in Teton County and the Town of Jackson when inside businesses or around other people.
Elk Reduction Program Began Saturday, November 7 (Ends December 13)
This link offers details regarding the elk hunt in Grand Teton National Park.
“The only area open to the elk reduction program is Wyoming Game and Fish Elk Hunt Area 75, located mostly east of U.S. Highway 89. The Antelope Flats portion of this area closes November 23, and the remaining portions close December 13. The Snake River Bottom between Deadmans Bar and Ditch Creek is closed [to hunting].” Click the thumbnail Map to see it MUCH larger.
December 1st Photos:
Moose in Sage: I am including this photo to illustrate that not all “moose mornings” are equal. On some days, they can be within yards of the road, while other days, they are too far out for good photos. I saw a lot of them today, but bailed on them quickly. As you will see in the rest of the photos below, leaving a mediocre opportunity led to better ones. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Wagon Wheels: Antelope Flats Road and Mormon Row Road are still open. Things look completely different this time of the year. Sometime after the Elk Hunt ends on December 13th, the Park Service will gate the middle section of Antelope Flats road for the winter, making it much more challenging to get winter photos of the old homesteads. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Wagon Wheels: I know there are photographers that like to characterize themselves as either “wildlife photographers” or “landscape photographers”. I like both, AND I like these kinds of shots. They fill the day and my cards. But possibly, the more important lesson is simply the fact you have slowed down and are out of the vehicle. Some people stay away from Mormon Row because they don’t need or want barn photos, but I think they are missing out! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Coyote: I managed to get photos of this Coyote at Mormon Row! See what I mean? You just have to be out and taking photos! I’ve also stumbled upon Ermine and Badgers while milling around the area. 399 and her four cubs “could” walk right by, too! They are probably “in the area” searching for hunter’s gut piles. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Coyote: Coyotes are defined as predators in Wyoming. There are no license requirements or stamps required to hunt coyotes. There are no bag limits. The only restriction on take of coyotes is you cannot harvest a coyote from any public road. These coyote hunting rules force them to be quite skittish when they see a human figure. Even within the boundaries of the National Parks, they are seldom comfortable. This special coyote allowed me to take his photo, but was always very aware of my presence. I took hundreds of photos of this one! Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
TA Moulton Barn: We have only a couple of weeks to get the Mormon Row photos. It will be possible to hike, snow shoe, or cross-country ski into the area. It’s roughly a 3/4 mile effort each direction, and if the temperature are below 0°F, it can be challenging.
Murphy Barn: When the Tetons are shrouded with clouds, I usually look for other subjects. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Snow Plow: I thought this was an interesting photo. It looks like the plow is zooming across open sagebrush, but it was actually on Antelope Flats road. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorns: Bighorn Sheep are “in the rut” in December, along with Mule Deer. This group or rams were atop Miller Butte. I hung around a while. They came on down to check out the ewes and to lick the fresh salt off the roadway. Bighorns are a relatively dependable subject in December. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Bighorn Ram: This a fairly common pose right now. The rams are checking the ewes for optimum breeding opportunities. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Trumpeter Swan: Swans are also dependable subjects in December. Look for them along Flat Creek on the north end of town. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Muskrat: These aren’t the prettiest animals in the ecosystem, but I think they are still worthy subjects. River Otters have been seen and photographed on Flat Creek lately. Going back to my “barn” scenario, sometimes you get the “good stuff” (Otters, Ermine, Etc) while working on more common or mundane subjects. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Common Golden Eye: I saw a group of five of these on Flat Creek. I initially thought they were female Barrow’s Golden Eyes, but they didn’t look quite right. I looked them up when I got home, to find they are Common Golden Eye females. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Astoria Hot Springs: A few people have seen Mountain Goats in the Snake River Canyon this year. I went down last week and found two. I went again today and got skunked. On the way back I pulled over to take this quick shot of the warm water coming out of the new Astoria Hot Springs facility. It’s open now, but has some additional Covid-19 restrictions. Someday, I’ll dedicate a little more time and set up the tripod for some velvety smooth flows. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Red-breasted Nuthatch: In case you are wondering, all of the photos on this page were taken TODAY….December 1st. Last month, I set up my bird blind and started putting out food for the wintering birds. They offer me some up close chances to stay home AND practice. This one took advantage of the new vertical “group” focus settings on my Nikon D6. I hadn’t used them much until today, but plan on using them more in the future. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
Brown Creeper: Over a period of around 10 years of photographing birds in my back yard, this is the first time I’ve seen a Brown Creeper! I hope to get better shots of it someday soon. Right now, I have at least one Steller’s Jay, three or more Blue Jays, a couple of Clark’s Nutcrackers, numerous Black-billed Magpies, one or two Hairy Woodpeckers, a few occasional Ravens, and a variety of Chickadees, Finches, and Juncos. Additionally, at least one Spotted Towhee is challenging me! They are reclusive “ground feeders”. I forgot to include the Red-breasted and White-breasted Nuthatches. There maybe be more than one of each. Nikon D6 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm Lens, Handheld.
I started feeding the winter birds many years ago. I am fairly certain that many of the birds in my back yard now have been returning year after year. I would encourage YOU to set up a few feeders and a few natural perches. Back yard birding can be both challenging AND rewarding!
I like December a lot! Days are short. The sun is low in the sky. Snow bounces sunlight into the shadows for some “fill light”. There are fewer people and rangers around (and, that’s a good thing if you are trying to stay from Covid-19 spreaders). Most of the “action” is in the southern portion of the valley, so I don’t put as many miles on my vehicles and I can save some gas! Days will continue to get shorter until around December 21st.
Antler Arch: I should also mention that the Town of Jackson and the downtown merchants do a great job of decorating for the Holiday Season.
Antler Arch: This is a good photo to end the December 1st entry in this month’s Daily Journal. Check back often as I will continue to add more photos and comments! If you can’t visit Jackson Hole in December, you can still get your “Jackson Hole fix” by checking in once in a while! MJ
I am accepting photo tours for the 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.