FAQs

Question

Will I see a bear?

Answer

Yes, probably. But for the love of god, please do not be the person pictured above. It’s recommended to stay at least 100 yards away from bears. Black bears and grizzly bears thrive in Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway. You may encounter a bear anywhere at anytime. Some of the most popular trails pass through excellent bear habitat. Bears will usually move out of the way if they hear you approaching, so make noise. Don't surprise bears! Bear bells are often NOT sufficient. Calling out (try saying "Hey Bear") and clapping your hands at regular intervals are better ways to make your presence known. Always carry bear spray.

Question

What is bear spray?

Answer

Bear spray is a unique formula specially prepared for use on bears and must contain 1 to 2% of the ingredient capaicin, an active component of chili peppers. It is an irritant for mammals—including humans—and produces a sensation of burning in any tissue with which it comes into contact. Bear spray should be carried in an immediately accessible location. Hanging on the side of back of a backpack, or under a jacket is not effective. The spray should be kept securely on a belt or harness on your waist or chest, on your outermost layer.

Question

What do I do if I encounter a bear?

Answer

-DO NOT RUN. Bears can easily out run any human. Running may elicit attacks from non-aggressive bears. If the bear is unaware of you, detour quickly and quietly. -If the bear is aware but has not acted aggressively, back slowly away while talking in an even tone or not at all. Matt taught me to say “woah bear, hey bear” as I raise my arms and back up slowly. We did bear safety for 25hrs on our drive to MT/WY so if you need any tips, Matt is your guy. -Use your peripheral vision. Bears may interpret direct eye contact as threatening. -Do not drop your pack - this teaches bears how to obtain human food. This is a big no no. Seriously, people will roast you if you do this. I’ve been on many online bear forums where they discuss bear encounters and they are relentless. You don’t want to be that guy or gal. -Do not climb trees - all black bears and some grizzly bears can also climb trees. I think this would only apply to Jimmy, as I don’t see any other friend or family climbing trees.

Question

What do I do if a bear charges me?

Answer

-DO NOT RUN. Some bears will bluff their way out of a threatening situation by charging, then veering off or stopping suddenly. -Bear experts generally recommend standing still until the bear stops and then slowly back away. -If you have bear spray this is the time to use it! -If the bear makes contact with you, drop to the ground and lie flat on your stomach with your legs spread apart slightly and play dead. Cover the back of your neck with your hands. Keep your pack on to protect your back. Do not move until you are certain the bear has left.

Question

Food storage and safety

Answer

When not in immediate use, store all items with an odor in a bear-resistant food storage locker or in a hard-sided vehicle with doors locked and windows closed day and night. Do not leave coolers in the back of a truck or strapped to a rack. Only have the items out that you are actually using, and restore them when finished. Never store food, garbage or toiletries in tents. Properly store food, drinks, coolers & food boxes, stoves & grills, cookware (clean or dirty), toiletries including bug repellent and sunscreen, pet food and bowls. Place all garbage in a bear-resistant dumpster. This mostly applies to camping and hiking, but also applies to our cabin as well. DO NOT leave stuff out at night. Throw all trash away. Anything in the cabin is ok.

Question

What’s the difference between a black bear and grizzly bear?

Answer

BLACK BEAR No distinctive shoulder hump Face profile is straight from nose to tip of ears Ears are tall and pointed GRIZZLY BEAR Distinctive shoulder hump Face profile appears dished in Ears are short and rounded Per Matt, black bears are generally harmless, but grizzly bears don’t mess around. In summary: Never feed bears Never approach bears Never get within 100 yards of bears Never mess with a bear and her cubs Never forget your bear spray Good luck!!

Question

What are the wedding day plans?

Answer

We will take cars to our wedding ceremony location and then head back to our place for dinner and drinks. The ceremony and after party will be very casual.

Question

What should I pack?

Answer

Jackson is pretty casual and the weather can vary. Average temp in August is a high of 80, low of 39. Girls are good in jeans/tanks or summer dresses and sandals. Guys are good in shorts or jeans and a t shirt or button down. However, pack layers as the temps can get chilly at night. Wedding attire is dressy casual. Other items to pack: hiking shoes, hats, cowboy/girl boys, cowboy/girl hats, a good attitude NO GIFTS!!

Question

Itinerary

Answer

We have day trips and excursions planned and you're more than welcome to join, but this is your vacation as well, so we won't be offended if you have other plans!