• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • News from Jackson Hole
  • About Us
  • National Parks
  • Wildlife
  • Contact Us
Jackson Hole Radio

Jackson Hole Radio

Home » Be Prepared in the Tetons – August is Search and Rescue Month

Be Prepared in the Tetons – August is Search and Rescue Month

August 18, 2023 by Scott Anderson

Tetons

During National Search and Rescue month, Grand Teton National Park rangers ask visitors to prepare before venturing into the backcountry. As most of the snow has melted on the higher altitude trails and climbing routes of the Tetons, they urge hikers and mountaineers to take their personal safety seriously.

Already in August, park rangers have conducted 12 SAR missions. Rescue missions inside the boundaries of Grand Teton National Park total 50 in the park this year. 

Rangers advise that everyone venturing into the park faces hazards and must take responsibility for their own safety and that of their group.

Search and Rescue Helicopter in Grand Teton National Park
Search and Rescue Helicopter in Grand Teton National Park. Photo C. Adams NPS

Just because someone requests a rescue doesn’t guarantee a response from rangers. Search and rescue missions put park personnel at risk. Rangers use helicopters only when the risks to the rescue team are acceptable. Even if they determine a helicopter is necessary, weather, time of day, or mechanical issues might prevent it from flying.

Above all, officials advise you to prepare to take care of yourself in case of an emergency.

Be Prepared When Heading Into the Backcountry

  • Set reasonable objectives based on your group’s experience level. 
  • Research your intended route by consulting topographic maps, guidebooks, and park rangers.
  • Look at the weather forecast and be prepared for rain, snow, ice, and cold. Conditions can change quickly.
  • Tell someone your route, and when you plan on returning. 
  • Bring food and water and a filter, as well as a headlamp, 
  • Pack a first aid kit, bear spray, and sun protection, 
  • Have a map and a GPS device and bring your phone.
  • Be prepared for bad weather by having warm layers in your pack.
  • If conditions change, or someone in your party is unable to keep going, turn around.
  • Watch your footing and keep an eye out for slippery surfaces or loose rocks.
Hikers in Grand Teton National Park. Photo Scott Anderson

Learn more at the park website  www.nps.gov/grandteton  before heading out into the backcountry or stop by a park visitor center to check current park conditions. 

  • Author
  • Recent Posts
Scott Anderson
Scott Anderson
Scott Anderson has been covering news in Jackson Wyoming since 1990 where he also has served as an elected Town Councilman for 12 years. He has also served as a director of the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum, The Jackson Hole and US Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, The Jackson Hole Community HousingTrust, and the Wyoming Association of Broadcasters.
Scott Anderson
Latest posts by Scott Anderson (see all)
  • A New Home for Wyoming’s Wild: Upcoming Horse and Burro Adoptions - September 7, 2023
  • Killer Grizzly Killed in West Yellowstone - September 7, 2023
  • Charture Institute Seeks Resident Insight on Greater Tetons Future - September 5, 2023

Filed Under: National Parks Tagged With: Grand Teton National Park

Primary Sidebar

National Parks

Grand Teton

Grand Teton National Park Wants Visitor Feedback

August 21, 2023 By Scott Anderson

Black Bear

Bear Raids Picnic in Grand Teton National Park

August 18, 2023 By Scott Anderson

Yellowstone’s Horny Bison Are Particularly Aggressive

August 18, 2023 By Scott Anderson

Tetons

Be Prepared in the Tetons – August is Search and Rescue Month

August 18, 2023 By Scott Anderson

Tags

Game and Fish Grand Teton National Park Grizzlies Health Housing Jackson Hole Wyoming News Mountain Lion Planning and Politics Recreation Regional News Search and Rescue Sports Travel Water quality Wildfire Wolves Yellowstone National Park

Footer

Contact us: info@jacksonholeradio.com
Telephone :307-733-2120
Address :1085 Highway 22 UNIT E Jackson, WY - United States
  • EEO
  • KMTN
  • KJAX
  • KZ95
  • LaNueva 96.3FM
  • Privacy Policy

© Copyright Jackson Hole Radio, LLC