Archive for the 'Activities' Category

Makin’ The Loop

Published
by
Allan
on October 21, 2009
in Activities
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ennisWe haven’t done a Makin’ The Loop spot for awhile, so I thougt it was about time. Today’s loop is from Island Park to Ennis, from Ennis to Bozeman, from Bozeman to West Yellowstone, and from West back to Island Park. This is an easy day loop with plenty to see and do.

There are many people here in Island Park who make regular runs to Bozeman for food, dining, and recreational opportunities. Of course many go to Idaho Falls for shopping too, but Bozeman and Idaho Falls are about equidistant, and if you’re looking for a change, Bozeman is a great change.

And it’s not just Bozeman, of course. Ennis is a fun town to walk around in for a couple of hours. There are several antique stores, art galleries, real estate offices, and so forth on the main street and everything is within walking distance. One caveat, you’ll want to avoid eating in Ennis. Your get better food and better prices in Bozeman and it’s only 30 - 45 minutes down the road.

If you’re a fisherman, the Madison flows all along the road to Ennis. This is blue ribbon trout water and there are trout shops all along the way where you can buy supplies and licenses, get advice on what’s happening currently and just talk a little fishing with knowledgeable folks.

This is a great loop and I highly recommend it. We do it about once a month, just to break the monotony of going to Idaho Falls all the time. Bozeman is a college town with plenty to do for an afternoon. Plenty of gas, food and other services all along the way, so no worries there. See you on the road!

Record Low Temperatures Forecast For Island Park

Published
by
Allan
on October 9, 2009
in Activities
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If you haven’t winterized your cabin yet, it just might be too late. Temperatures have been unseasonably cold for the last week and a half or so, but what was bad is going to take another dramatic turn for the worse. Forecast lows for the next couple of nights in Island Park are near zero. That means it could easily be below zero in some areas.

If you have exposed plumbing, you’d better get some heat tape on it right away. As I write this it is 18 degrees and snowing pretty heavily. When skies clear (if you believe the forecast) later in the day, the arctic express will bring ridiculously cold air from the north. The next several days look like snow and continued cold.

The weather service says temperatures are predicted to be about 25 degrees colder than you would expect at this time of year. Makes you wonder what December and January will bring (maybe those 50’s we have been missing . . . . . Naw. That would be too good to be true.)

It’s Cattle Drive Season In Island Park

Published
by
Allan
on October 1, 2009
in Activities
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cattle-driveWith this week’s snow storms and colder temperatures (highs in the 30’s) cattlemen are calling it a summer. It’s common now and will be for the next couple of weeks to see cowboys on horseback scouring the mountain valleys and high meadows for their cattle. After finding them, they bunch them up and drive them down a road to the loading chutes.

If you’re out and about on four wheelers or in your car, please be respectful of these fine men and women as they go about their business. Cattle don’t do well with motorized vehicles, so please slow down and let them pass you (instead of trying to pass them. If you can find another road, please do so. This will be over soon enough and we’ll all get along better if we can treat each other with courtesy, respect and patience.

If you would like to watch (and perhaps photograph) the cowboys as they do their jobs, you can go to Harriman for the next week or two and watch the work unfold. After that, you’ll have to wait until next year. Snooze you lose!

First Snowfall Of The Season

Published
by
Allan
on September 30, 2009
in Activities, Fishing, Island Park News and Snowmobiling
. 0 Comments

snowy-roadWow! Snow at the end of September has to be a good sign if you’re a snowmobiler. It started snowing about 5:00 a.m. today and has continued throughout the morning. We’ll see what happens this afternoon. I had heard earlier that El Nino was blowing in this year, which would normally be the harbinger of a “below average” snow year. But who knows when the first storm comes on the last day of Sept.

And it’s odd, in some ways. Yesterday was a beautiful native american summer day with temps in the low 70’s and severe clear blue skies. Everyone here said, “No, there’s now way it will snow tomorrow. It’s too warm.” But overnight the temperatures dropped into the 20’s and we’re headed for a high today only in the mid 30’s. My dad would tell you that even the brass monkeys are pulling out their long underwear.

Of course summer’s not over. There will be many beautiful days yet to come. But with the cold making its arrival so soon, there will start to be more and more cold days as well. What all this means to me is that fishing is going to be getting real good here in a couple of weeks. If you’re a fisherman, you don’t want to miss that. Of course, if you’re a snowmobiler, you’ll be praying for an early start to the season.

Whichever way you see it, this is a great time to be in Island Park. No crowds. No competition for the streams and trails. No overbearing heat. Just a quiet, pleasant, crisp and cool atmosphere in which to recharge your batteries. See you soon.

Harriman Park Still Going Strong

Published
by
Allan
on September 29, 2009
in Activities, Island Park Attractions and Island Park News
. 0 Comments

harrimanIf you haven’t been in Harriman in the fall, you haven’t been to Harriman. The park is beautiful as the colors start to change and the elk start to bugle. It’s like stepping back in time about 3,000 years. The sounds are prehistoric.

I remember by first foray into Harriman in October. It was crisp and cold in the morning and we rode horses across the big meadow and into the forest beyond. A few calls in the elk bugle brought big bulls right up to where we were. There is something magical about watching one of these monarchs of the forest raking their antlers through the trees and pawing the ground.

But it’s more than elk, as I’ve come to learn. The horse flies are gone, the ducks and geese are everywhere, the air and water are crisp, cold, clear, and beautiful. All trails are still open and they have something for everyone. You can walk or ride horses. You can take trails a few hundred yards long along the river or head into the mountains and hike as far as you want.

Rangers recommend bear spray, and bells to wear as you hike along to deter bears who are aggressively getting ready for a long winter’s nap. Of course no guns are allowed in the park, so if that’s your normal mode of protection, you’d better stop and pick up some spray.

Don’t miss the fall colors this year. It’s going to be a great year for photography, so bring your camera and we’ll see you there!

Bear Spray — Accept No Substitutes

Published
by
Allan
on September 25, 2009
in Activities
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bear-sprayAs hunters take to the field, bears are near the top of their safety concerns — and for good reason. The number of grizzly bears has increased dramatically over the last 20 or so years, and bear encounters in the wild are occurring more and more frequently.

The Island Park ranger station is encouraging people to use bear spray instead of bullets. They contend that bear spray will stop a bear with great certainty than bullets (which may go off target in a moment of panic.) They also point out that by using the bear spray, both the hunter and the bear can live to fight another day.

The ranger station has stated that most people who have not been successful with using spray on bears were using pepper spray or personal defense sprays, and not actual bear spray. They point out that only real bear spray has the necessary punch to stop a bear (which makes me wonder what it would do to a potential rapist?) So if you’re going to rely on bear spray, be sure you accept no substitutes.

In the interest of complete disclosure, opponents of spray (who are also proponents of guns) point out that for the spray to be effective, you have to use it within 25 feet. Some people don’t want to wait until a big ol’ angry grizz is within 25 feet to find out whether or not it works. Personally, I’d say you have to have pretty big cojones to stand, can raised with a perfect self-restraint, until a charging grizzly is within 25 feet.

At the end of the day, neither guns nor bear spray are for the faint of heart. For more information contact Lynn at the Island Park ranger station 208-558-7301.

Bicycle Yellowstone This Weekend

Published
by
Allan
on September 23, 2009
in Activities and Calendar of Events
. 1 Comment

cycling-yellowstone1If you’ve always wanted to take a great bike ride in Yellowstone but were intimidated by the traffic, now is your chance to join a large group of cyclists riding from West to Old Faithful and back. There is no restrictions on what kind of bike you can use (except it can’t have a motor,) and you don’t have to be a certain age.

That said, the length of the ride is 57 miles over rolling terrain and the average elevation is over 6,000 feet, so it’s probably for people who are pretty fit. Food stations will be available at Madison Junction and at Old Faithful and a “sag wagon” will be available to pick up those whose “eyes are bigger than their stomachs.”

Pre-registration is required, so you have to get squared away before you come. For more info on cost and registration, etc. call 406-599-4465. They will take care of everything for you. Don’t wait. The ride is this Saturday and remember, pre-registration is required. See you in West.

Poachers Caught In Grand Teton National Park

Published
by
Allan
on September 21, 2009
in Activities, Fishing and Island Park News
. 0 Comments

You know, although I switched from hunting with guns to hunting with cameras years ago, I respect the right of anyone who wants to, to get up in the middle of the night, dress in camo clothing, and chase the wild animal of their choice. It’s a time-honored tradition in the west and a large part of our heritage.

On the other hand, if there’s one thing I can’t tolerate in any degree it’s so-called “hunters” who feel they are somehow above the rules the rest of us play by. Last week park rangers in Grand Teton National Park arrested two men for attempting to poach an elk in the park. Really. Where’s the challenge in walking up to an elk in a place where they’re not afraid of people, and sticking it with an arrow?

In my estimation, these people are not hunters — they are thieves. Anyone who stoops low enough to hunt in a national park is a loser and the hunting community should be outraged by this behavior. Not only are these people not honorable in any way, they give the rest of us a bad name.

If you come to Idaho to hunt or fish, do so according to the regulations. If you think you’re just too weak of character to do that, go hunt somewhere else — you’re not welcome here. Our game is managed and our herds are growing. These animals are a treasured resource in Idaho and there is no room here for someone who thinks they’re above the law. So if you’re a hunter or fisherman who believes in chasing your quarry according to the rules and regulations, we welcome you with open arms. If not . . . we look forward to having you ply your craft elsewhere. ‘nough said.

After School Program Successful In Island Park

Published
by
Allan
on September 17, 2009
in Activities and Island Park News
. 0 Comments

Concerned over the challenges facing our youth, local civic and church leaders collaborated on a program for youth dubbed the “after school program,” where mentors (experts in their fields) teach the youth — one-on-one or in small groups — a variety of life skills.

There are math tutors, science tutors, music teachers, sewing and homemaking teachers, various sports and other skills teachers. Just about anything a youth could be interested in could be offered.

The real beauty of the program is it not only helps the youth expand his or her talent and skill base, it provides something to do after school a day or two a week that makes them unavailable for less desirable activities. Instead of doing things that tear them down emotionally, morally, physically, etc. they are doing those things that not only build character but build self-esteem as well.

This has been a well-received program both by the youth and by the community. It is funded entirely by donations and local people have been very generous. If you would like to make a donation, or learn more about the program (perhaps to do something similar in your area,) you can contact the Island Park chamber of commerce at 208-558-7755.

Elk Hunt Gets Slow Start

Published
by
Allan
on September 16, 2009
in Activities
. 0 Comments

elk-buglingThe archery season elk hunt in Island Park is off to a fairly slow start this year. It’s been warm and the elk haven’t started bugling in earnest yet, making them difficult to find. There seems to have been more hunters this year than in years past, but that’s just my observation and not a scientific opinion. For the hunt to really take off, we’re going to need a three or four really hard freezes in a row to get things moving.

The one area that is the exception in this year’s hunt is Ferguson’s elk ranch over by Meadow Creek lodge. If you have enough money, they’ll lead out whatever size bull you want to kill and you can stick an arrow in it. If you have more money than time, and if having something hanging on your wall is more important than the challenge of the hunt, give them a call. It’s always great hunting on the elk ranch.

For the rest of us, we’ll wait for the colder weather to get here and take our chances. I think for most people, it’s not the kill. It’s getting outside and smelling the pine trees and just generally renewing ones self. There’s no better place than here for R&R. See you when the temperatures drop and the elk start bugling!

ATV Use Under Review

Published
by
Allan
on September 15, 2009
in Activities
. 0 Comments

atv-forestI suppose it had to happen sooner or later. The Ashton / Island Park ranger district is seeking public input on ATV and off-road-vehicle use in the Island Park area. I’m really torn on this one. I really like being free to go where I want on my four wheeler. I ride these trails virtually every day in the summer and I enjoy watching the wildlife and and wildflowers as I go.

On the other hand, indiscriminate use has hammered the local environment. I have seen many who ride with no respect for the land, and the land bears the scars of such use. Signs indicating closed areas are often ignored and new “user created” trails create what amounts to a blight on the landscape.

The thing that concerns me in all this is that the tree huggers will restrict ATV use to the point that we’re unable to enjoy the land around here. It’s clear they have a heavy hand in the discussions when you read the guidelines. The first guideline for a possible restructuring of the land use is this: No decision that modifies the travel plan (that now exists) will add miles to the forest’s motorized trail routes. That makes it clear that this isn’t a comment period to see if things are going to get better — only a comment period to see how much worse they’re going to get.

If you feel as strongly about this as your environment-first friends, I’d suggest you make a comment to our friends with the Canadian mounty hats. You can rest assured the other side will be doing everything they can to close everything to ATV’s. If you come here to ride, you’d better get everyone you know who comes here to comment.

Comments can be emailed to: comments-intermtn-caribou-targhee-ashton-island-park@fs.fed.gov Or, if you don’t like the email route for some reason, you can fax your comments to 208-652-7863. Don’t wait. Changes are coming and if you didn’t comment, you forfeit your right to complain.

Great Service In Island Park

Published
by
Allan
on September 14, 2009
in Activities, Island Park Lodging, Island Park News, Island Park Restaurants and Services
. 0 Comments

macks-inn-boatsYou know, we always complain about bad service when someone doesn’t treat us right, but we don’t always talk about the good service we receive. So in the interest of keeping the playing field level, I want to report some examples of great service.

First, I was renting a boat for a float trip at Macks Inn when I realized I hadn’t brought my wallet. “I’m going to have to go home and get my wallet,” I told the lady. “Don’t give my boat away. I”ll be back in ten minutes.” She said, “Look, don’t worry. Just take the boat now and bring me the money later.” As soon as I got arrived back at Macks, I went straight home and got the money.

The next thing didn’t happen to me, but while I was in Boondocks restaurant I overheard some people lamenting they didn’t have their money. “Don’t worry about it,” Pat, the owner, said. “You can pay me later.” The guy replied he was from out of town and wouldn’t be back for a week or two. “That’s okay,” Pat said, “Bring me the money when you come back.” Out of curiousity the next time I was in I asked Pat if the guy had paid. “Oh, sure,” he said. “They always come back in with the cash.”

The next episode occurred at Elk Creek gas station. Joe Williams is the chief mechanic. He also does chainsaw sharpening ($5 off the saw, and $10 on the saw.) I’ve gone in four times this summer to have my chainsaw blade sharpened. Each time I ask how long it will take to get the blade done, and every time he says, “Well, I could probably do it right now.”

I take two things away from these stories. First, great customer service is far from dead — at least around here. Second, people are honest. If retailers were getting burned saying, “Pay me later.” They’d stop saying it. But contrary to what you might hear elsewhere, people are basically honest and trustworthy. That’s pretty encouraging to me.

If you’re tired of bad service where you live, come up here and let us show you some mountain hospitality. We have the best environment there is. We have the best people around. And we have the best service available anywhere. Come check it out for yourself.

Service Builds Character / Benefits Everyone

Published
by
Allan
on September 8, 2009
in Activities, Calendar of Events and Island Park News
. 0 Comments

clean-upIf you love Island Park, and I know you do or you wouldn’t be reading this, consider volunteering for one of the many cleanup opportunities in the area. The Henry’s Fork Foundation just sponsored a cleanup of the stretch of the Henry’s Fork of the Snake that runs through Island Park and they did a tremendous work. Cleaning up both in and around the river made a better situation for everyone.

Not only does service improve the quality of life in the community, it strengthens the character of those who participate. Did you know that youth who regularly participate in service projects actually do better in school than those who don’t and are less likely than their peers to have problems with parents and with the law? It’s true.

This season’s about come and gone, but if you’re planning on coming again next year, schedule a half day to do clean up work. If one of the major campaigns is under way you can join with them. If not, gather your family around you and select a stretch of road or a stretch of river and start filling garbage bags. If you call the county they will provide the bags and signs notifying motorists you are there.

The bottom line is don’t let the little things deter you. You can afford a bag for each family member. Tell them you’ll collect trash until each has a bag that’s full. A quick trip to the dump and you’re done. This is a great way to build family unity, to build individual character, and to make Island Park a better place for all of us. See you out there!

A Few Thoughts On Yellowstone, Wolves And The Environment

Published
by
Allan
on September 7, 2009
in Activities
. 3 Comments

indian1Hello. My name’s Allan and I’m an environmentalist. Wow! That was pretty easy. Now I’m out of the closet. As an environmentalist, I can honestly say I love this land. I’ve chosen to live here and I want to protect it. I want my children and grand children to enjoy things just like I have. But as a budding environmentalist I haven’t developed the full fervor of my eco-terrorist, plants and animals before people paradigm. But I do have a few good ideas of my own.

First, I agree that we need to keep Yellowstone (and all of the Yellowstone eco-system, as far as that’s concerned) in as pristine a condition as possible. Unfortunately I don’t believe wolves are the way to do that. But I do have an substitute I think will work even better. For those who want to keep the land the way it was 200 year ago, I suggest we get rid of the wolves and re-introduce Indians to Yellowstone.

Indians (also known in some circles as native Americans) are the original environmentalists. They not only loved the land, they worshiped it as earth mother. They don’t kill indiscriminately and leave the rest to rot. They take only what they need and then only from the weak or sickly (to preserve the best for future breeding.) They don’t interfere with the natural order of things, preferring to live in harmony.

Of course if you’re going to have Indians on the land, you’re going to have to put up with them not camping in designated campgrounds. They’re going to build fires (albeit small fires) wherever they happen to land for the night. They’re going to perform their native religious rituals late into the night (which may disturb some campers.) They’re going to want to be left alone — not saddled with meaningless rules.

All that is a small trade off as far as I can see. So from my point of view we re-introduce Indians as soon as possible. We let them take care of the wolves. We give them what they need to live in peace and harmony with the land (like they’ve always done) and the environment (along with all the rest of us) is the winner.

I suggest if we’re going to get back to the way things were 200 years ago we re-introduce Indians to Yellowstone as soon as possible and get going.

Makin’ The Loop

Published
by
Allan
on September 2, 2009
in Activities
. 0 Comments

tetonAs another installment of our Makin’ The Loop series, today’s loop is the longest yet. It can be done in one day, but you’ll have to keep moving. This loop goes from Island Park, to West Yellowstone, to Old Faithful, to the South Entrance of the park, to Jackson Hole, to Dirggs, to Tetonia, to Felt, to Ashton and back to Island Park.

This is a great loop. You’ll get to see some of the most beautiful features of the park and you’ll get to see the Grand Tetons from all four directions (basically you’re making a loop around the Tetons. There’s the old-west feel of Jackson and Victor, the natural beauty of Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, and spectacular mountains and high-mountain valleys.

Things not to miss include fountain paint pots and Old Faithful in Yellowstone. Jackson lake and Jenny lake in Grand Teton national park (the fee to enter Yellowstone also allows free access in Grand Teton Park.) Then there’s the main square and shopping in Jackson hole. And during the summer there will be the wild-west shootout right in the street. By the time you get to Jackson you’ll be ready for lunch. Check out a Billy Burger at the little hole-in-the-wall diner next to the silver dollar bar on the square. I guarantee it’s the best burger you’ve ever eaten. Then over the hill to Driggs. If you take ski hill road toward Grand Targhee, you’ll be rewarded with the best view of the Tetons there is.

This is one giant photo op. Don’t forget your camera. There is gas and food available in West Yellowstone, Jackson, Driggs, Ashton and back here in Island Park, so no worries there. But always drive on the top half of the tank just to be sure. The park closes some time in October, so don’t wait too long.

See you there.