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Nature Center Events, Summer 2017

Week of September 11 - September 17

Hello all,
Please note that I will remain very aware of the intensity of smoke in our valley. Unfortunately, the smoke we are experiencing consists of a very fine particulate which we inhale into the deepest recesses of our lungs. Thus, I ask that you refrain from hiking if you are having any difficulty breathing or experiencing sensitivity and irritation from the smoke. Like all of us, I am overwhelmed by the sheer number and expanse of western forest fires now burning, and remain hopeful for a quick reprieve and a return to clear skies..this is unprecedented in my 35 years in the valley, and much worse than what we experienced in the 1988 Yellowstone fires.
Let’s all be careful out there! All my best,
Respectfully,
Roger

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
Day Hike: Crater Lake and the Big Rocks Trail
Time: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Location: Meet at the Nature Center at 8:30 AM
Description: Moderate
Distance: 4.9 miles R/T
Elevation Gain: 1,150' Maximum Elevation: 7,212'
We begin this hike from the parking area at the base of the Old Pass Road, just past Trail Creek Ranch. We’ll hike up almost 700’ in the first 1.5 miles to Crater Lake along the ‘History Trail’, and return down along the Crater Lake Trail. Both travel through beautiful forests and open meadows along a well-worn trail, and offer a pleasant alternative to the paved ‘old pass road’ that winds to the top of Teton Pass. Once back to the bottom, we’ll climb back up about 350’ and hike a beautiful trail around the ‘Big Rocks’ trail, so named for several massive boulders, or ‘glacial erratics’ that we encounter on the trail. These glacial erratics’ were transported to this location on top of huge glaciers that once filled the valley to an estimated 1,500 feet above the valley floor. Great views of Mt. Glory, mature Douglas fir forests and plenty of interesting birding.
Bring: daypack, snack, rain jacket, warm layer, hat, sunscreen, hiking shoes.
Notes: Dogs are welcome.

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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
Day Hike: Aspen and Boulder Ridge Trails, LSR PreserveTime: 8:
Time: 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Meet at the Nature Center at 8:30 AM
Description: Moderate
Distance: 10 miles R/T
Elevation Gain: 790' Maximum Elevation: 6,800'
This is a wonderful hike through mixed conifer and deciduous forests, beautiful views of the valley and Phelps Lake. The trail varies from moderate to steep sections, but always eases back just when you are thinking of needing a rest. We’ll start on the Aspen Ridge trail to Phelps Lake, continue to circumnavigate the lake and join theBoulder Ridge trail on the north side on the lake back to the Visitor Center. Even if you have hiked these trails in the past, there are always subtle changes and something new to see each year.
Bring: daypack, lunch, water bottle, warm layer, sunscreen.

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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13
Road Cycling: 3 Creek Ranch - Moose
Time: 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: Meet at Nature Center at 8:30 AM
Description: Moderate
Distance: 34 miles R/T
Elevation Gain: 317' Maximum Elevation: 6,512'
We’ll begin at the Nature Center and follow both the pathway and roadside to the north end of town. From there we’ll enjoy a stress-free ride the entire way on the pathway toMoose. Expect one climb (250’) to the top of Fish Hatchery Hill, but we are rewarded for our work with a spectacular view of the Teton Range as we crest the hill. The next 7.5 miles will be relatively flat terrain with splendid views all the way to Moose. Coffee at Dornan’s is always a nice stop.
Bring: bike, helmet, water bottles, warm layer, sunscreen.
Notes: Please stop by or give me a call if you need help preparing your bike or other cycling needs.

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14
Day Hike: Bradley-Taggart Loop Hike
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Meet at the Nature Center at 9:00 AM
Description: Moderate
Distance: miles 5.4 R/T
Elevation Gain: 770' Maximum Elevation: 7,147'
Taggart and Bradley lakes lie at the base of the Tetons just 3miles north of the Moose entrance station. The trail around these pristine glacial lakes begins at the Taggart Lake Trail parking area, and offers spectacular views of the Tetons and an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the dynamics of fire ecology as we walkthrough the remains of the 1985 fire. We hike about 450’ up in the first one and a half miles, and reach the highest point of the hike once on top of the lateral moraine that separate these two lakes. Once we climb back out of Bradley Lake, we hike the final two miles downhill to the vehicle.
Notes: daypack, water, lunch, bear spray

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
Office Hours
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Nature Center
Notes: Stop by the Nature Center for a casual visit to say hello, request some help planning your next outdoor adventure, or bring your guests for a tour of the Center.

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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17
Office Hours
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Nature Center
Notes: Stop by the Nature Center for a casual visit to say hello, request some help planning your next outdoor adventure, or bring your guests for a tour of the Center.

Roger Smith
Resident Naturalist
3 Creek Ranch Nature Center

3 Creek Ranch Outings are reserved for club members and homeowners.