Spring/Fall Activities at Grandma's

Spring and Fall are considered the “shoulder seasons” for this part of mountain country. The hustle and bustle of summer visitors has either not yet started or has ended after Labor Day. Traffic is light and days are relaxed with crisp, cool nights and sunny, warm days. It is the perfect combination for anyone looking to enjoy their favorite activity or just sit back and relax.

Each spring, Yellowstone opens its west entrance for hikers and bikers this year from March 27th, 2009 to April 17th, 2009. Entrance fee’s are waived and those who enter are rewarded by a quiet peacefulness punctuated only by the occasional chirp from an eagle flying overhead or burp from a bull bison trying to keep his herd in-line.

The Grizzly Wolf & Discovery Center is open every day of the year in West Yellowstone. Observe grizzly bears and wolves in their natural habitats, attend special ranger presentations, and visit the hands-on bear exhibit, great for kids!

It is also the best time of year to see wildlife, both in Yellowstone and Grand Teton Parks, as well as the Island Park area. Late April to mid-May brings the emergence of hundreds of red bison calves, bucking and bumping each other, and chasing their mothers relentlessly for another quick nursing snack. Later in May and early June, the elk calves emerge from lodgepole pine forests to cavort with each other in mountain meadows.

Fall resembles the quiet solitude of spring except for brilliantly colored Aspen trees and a hint of wintry weather to come in the air. Bison and then elk resume their annual mating rituals with loud bugling, tree stomping and catcalls to attract the best harems. Bears go into a state of hyperphagia, eating constantly to get ready for hibernation. Don’t miss the Fall Cycle Ride into Old Faithful.

Whether you like to watch, participate, or just enjoy, the shoulder seasons are the best time to indulge.