Snowstorm Trumpets Arrival of Winter

Arizona's first major winter storm of the season blanketed Grand Canyon Village with more than two feet of snow. The December 8^th barrage brought life on the South Rim to a virtual halt. Snowbound tourists were treated to a once-a-year spectacle, hungry deer switched from grass to low-hanging twigs, and locals traded Subarus for snowshoes to make the morning commute. As a fifteen year resident, I've only seen a few winter storms this potent, and rarely this early. This bodes well for the "wet" winter that many are predicting, and is great news for a thirsty forest ecosystem that has been experiencing drought conditions for more than a decade. A lesser snowpack would typically melt in a day or two in sunny Arizona, but this one promises to stick around for a while. If you are planning a Hanukkah, Christmas, or New Year's Eve visit to the park, and were hoping for a winter wonderland, this is your year. Happy holidays!

Early Birds No Longer Get the Worm at Backcountry Office

The National Park Service recently announced forthcoming procedural changes in the way backcountry permits are issued. The biggest, and most controversial, is the elimination of an advantage for individuals who arrive in person on the first day that permits for any given month become available. In an attempt to be more equitable, the NPS backcountry office will process mailed and faxed requests before honoring those made in person. Many local hikers are dismayed at losing what had been a distinct advantage in securing their desired hiking itinerary. Conversely, canyon enthusiasts from across the country (and globe) couldn't be happier about the new arrangement as their chances have improved.