Western Wyoming Ready for Winter Season

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — Both of western Wyoming's national parks are open for the winter season, which means the start of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and skate skiing, among other outdoor activities.

The Jackson Hole News & Guide reports that except for the Cody entrance, all of Yellowstone's gates opened to snowmobiling Sunday, though snow conditions are best near the South Gate on up to Old Faithful.

The visitor center, grill and gift shop at the iconic geyser opened Sunday, but the cabins, lodge and dining room are set to open Wednesday. At Grand Teton National Park, conditions for over-snow winter sports are somewhat less optimal. But park spokeswoman Jackie Skaggs says "it's actually still a really enjoyable opportunity to get up there and cross-country ski."