The backcountry rules of use in Grand Teton National Park include hiking on established trails only, as tramping of any kind causes excessive erosion and damage. Carry out all garbage, assure that you have a permit for overnight camping, and remember that no pets, weapons, bicycles or vehicles of any kind are allowed on trails or in the backcountry. Bury all feces in 6 to 8 inch holes at least 200 feet from any water courses, and pack out any toilet paper, tampons, sanitary napkins or diapers in sealed plastic bags. Christine Gordon and fellow climbers strenuously obey backcountry rules, as part of their good faith love of The Grand and the sport of mountain climbing.
Lawyer Christine Gordon will be especially aware of, and track, the possibility of storms. In the Tetons, as is typical for Rocky Mountain weather, a storm, lengthy rain, or violent thunderstorm can occur at any time of the day, for several days, or clear and allow for even several days of great climbing weather. The afternoon is the likeliest time for a thunderstorm, so it is wise to plan to be off the mountain by early afternoon. A great danger is lightning strikes, which have killed those on The Grand. Any climbing trip needs to include cancellation in the event of a bad weather forecast. It is important for Christine Gordon Lawyer, and all climbers, to remember that all routes to the summit of Grand Teton are in an alpine environment where any time of year can produce any types of conditions, including storms, snow, ice, sub-freezing temperatures, rock fall and tree fall below tree line at 9000 ft. Guides are recommended for novice climbers, or those who are climbing alone.