QUESTIONS?

Arrowleaf balsamroot  Balsamorhiza sagitta

One of the more showy flowers of Spring in the GYE is this member of the sunflower family. Found mostly in dry areas of valleys and hillsides. Native Americans included the young shoots, roots and seeds in their diet.

Feel free to contact Dan (760 744-1150 ext 2775) or Candi (760 744 1150 ext 2522) if you have any questions or need further clarification of anything related to this class. Here are some frequently asked questions that might help.

    1. When and where does the course begin?                                            The class officially begins Wednesday, August 2, at Colter Bay Cabins,  Grand Teton National Park, at 2:00 PM. Meeting at 2:00 PM will allow everyone time to get settled and prepare for our first activity.

      2. When and where does the course end?
The class will end the night of August 11 in Yellowstone National Park.

      3. Where are we staying and what are the accommodations like?  We will be staying at the Colter Bay Village Cabins in Grand Teton National Park from August 6 through August 10.  There are three beds per cabin, and  three persons per cabin.  We will stay at the Lake Yellowstone Hotel Cabins from August 11 through the night of August 15.  These cabins have two beds per cabin, and.   Both Colter Bay and Lake Yellowstone cabins have bathrooms with showers, and beds with linens.  Both facilities provide daily maid service.  The cabins are comfortable, but not luxurious. 

      4.  What will we be doing?
A tentative agenda is available on this web site.  We will check with the rangers to see where bears, wolves, and other wildlife are active and adjust the itinerary as necessary.  We will use our campsite as a base of operations, and choose from a variety of options daily.  These activities include day hikes, as well as some rafting and canoeing in Grand Teton National Park. You will need to assess your physical ability and health and decide if you want to participate in the scheduled activities.  If you are not comfortable with an activity, then do not do it—you are not required to participate and may do an alternate activity.   It is your decision.  You will be required to sign a waiver of liability before enrolling in the course.

      5. What should I bring?
A “backpackers” list is provided, but we will be staying in cabins so much of the equipment is unnecessary unless you plan to camp before or after the course.  The main thing is to be prepared for the weather (see below), and to be able to eat (see below).

      6. What about the weather?
Anything and everything is possible.  In the past we have seen temperatures rang from 20⁰ F (with snow) to over 90⁰F...in the same day!  Thunderstorms are a certainty, and prolonged rains are possible.  It is crucial that you have quality rainwear.   You must assume responsibility for your own comfort and safety.  The weather can be an opportunity or an obstacle.  Some of my fondest memories of this area occurred in the most vile weather.  For weather conditions in the area call (307) 739-3611.  The weather conditions are so fickle, however, I am not sure of the value of the information.

      7. What about food and laundry?
There are grocery stores, laundry facilities, coffee shops, cafeterias, and restaurants scattered throughout the National Parks.  We will normally be starting early in the morning, before restaurants are open, and will be in field at lunchtime.  We recommend having cereal or something “easy” in the morning, and packing sandwiches, etc. for lunchtime.  Most students bring a box of groceries and an ice chest and replenish supplies at area grocery stores.  You will typically have late afternoons/early evenings to yourselves, and that is the best time to exploit restaurants, etc.  Cooking is prohibited in the cabins, but we may gather at nearby picnic areas to do our cooking in the mornings and/or evenings. 

      8. How long does it take to get there?
About 18 hours driving time to Jackson, Wy. (from North County), and 21 hours to the Lake Yellowstone Hotel in Yellowstone.

9. What is the best way to get there and what are some things to see along the way?
We will discuss this at our preliminary meetings, or contact Dan or Candi if you want to plan ahead.

10.  What about safety?
We are going to be in a wild place and our primary concern is safety.   We cannot, however, guarantee anyone’s safety.  Bears, for example, are a very real danger, as are bison, elk, and moose.  Attached is an article on the use of pepper spray as a protectant.  I suggest everyone buy a canister (available at REI), carry it into the field, and keep it handy at all times.  You will likewise need to assess your physical ability to do hikes, canoeing, etc.  If you are not comfortable with an activity, then do not do it--there are always alternate activities.  You will be required to sign a waiver of liability before enrolling in the course.

11.  What about extra money?
Be sure you have adequate funds for transportation, and food.  Anticipate what you will do if you have car problems, etc.  ATM’s are available in the National Parks.