Dear Friends:
The year 2010 marked the 40th anniversary of the Grand Teton Climbers’ Ranch. The American Alpine Club observed this occasion with a celebration at the Climbers’ Ranch on the evening of August 21. (see Rob Dowse’s photos—ed.)
After the old climbers’ camp at the southwest end of Jenny Lake was closed by the Park Service in 1966, the American Alpine Club recognized the importance of finding a new site where climbers could gather at the base of the Teton Range, not subject to the length of stay regulations of the Park campgrounds, and where the tradition of mountaineering in the Tetons, and the tradition of a climbers’ community, would continue to flourish. That mission was realized on January 1, 1970 when the original lease for the Double Diamond Ranch became effective between the American Alpine Club and the National Park Service. The Climbers’ Ranch opened at the beginning of June, 1970 and has remained in operation every summer since. The nightly rate that first season was $1.00! Since opening, the Climbers’ Ranch has been sustained by the commitment of a long succession of AAC officers, an ever-enlarging membership, and numerous visitors who had their initial introduction to both climbing and the AAC through their experience at the ranch.
I have often said that the Climbers’ Ranch is not only a haven for climbers in one of the most beautiful places in America, but is in its best traditions a family of individuals who share a love of place, a love of climbing, wonderful memories, and after even a single visit, the gift of friendship.
Please make your reservations early for 2012, and join us at the Climbers’ Ranch to continue these enduring traditions. As usual, there’ll be some bunks available for drop-ins, but reservations will guarantee your spot.
William A. Fetterhoff
Chairman
Grand Teton Climbers’ Ranch Committee
