Celebrate National Public Lands Day with free entrance fees

In observance of National Public Lands Day, Yellowstone National Park will waive its entrance fee for all visitors on Saturday, September 30.

Volunteers at Yellowstone will contribute to a backcountry trail restoration project which is 2-3 miles from the road, and those who participate will receive a coupon for free entry to the federal public land of their choice.

Grand Teton National Park entrance fees will also be waived on Saturday, and two volunteer opportunities will be available.

The first is to construct buck and rail fencing, remove invasive plants, pick up trash and complete other general maintenance at the Lupine Meadows Trailhead from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday.

Officials ask you bring sturdy shoes, long pants, water, snacks, sunglasses, sunscreen and clothing to match the weather.

Those interested in volunteering should contact Angela Timby at 307-739-3379 or angela_timby@nps.gov and plan to meet at the trailhead at 9:50 a.m.

Work gloves, tools and safety equipment will be provided and all volunteers will receive a voucher that can be used for one-time entry into any public land site that charges an entrance fee.

Volunteers are also needed for a project that Grand Teton National Park staff are completing in partnership with the Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation and National Parks Conservation Association in the Elk Ranch Flats area of the park. The project will include removal and modification of fences to enhance wildlife movement. Interested volunteers should contact the foundation at 307-739-0968 or info@jhwildlife.org to register and for more information.

National Public Lands Day is celebrated across the country to encourage enjoyment and volunteer opportunities on public lands.