Jedediah Smith Wilderness

The Jedediah Smith Wilderness was designated because of the unique karst limestone features, including numerous caves, and outstanding scenery. It was named after Jedediah Strong Smith, a well-educated and energetic mountain man from New York who explored the West in the early 1800s. Long and narrow, the Wilderness lies on the west slope of the Teton Range in western Wyoming and stretches from Yellowstone National Park south to Teton Pass. It is part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and home to a variety of wildlife including black and grizzly bear, bighorn sheep, wolverine, moose and elk. The Forest Service and Park Service are working together to return fire to the ecosystem, and some lightning-ignited fires may be burning for Wildland Fire Use. The Teton Range receives heavy snowfall in the winter and heavy recreation use in the summer. Approximately 175 miles of trail provide access, including some trails that cross into Grand Teton National Park. Dogs are not allowed, and permits are required to camp overnight in Grand Teton National Park.