Paul, a photographer friend of mine just returned from Jackson and Yellowstone, there were blizzards already! He could not even shoot the snow was so heavy and the winds were gusting... If you plan to come to the western USA in mid October, the Eastern Sierras will be showcasing there fall color and that is definetly a trip worth it. Easy hotels accommadations up and down Rt. 395.... So you will have no problem filling a few weeks worth of shooting! You may consider renting an RV when you come... its off season, and they can be had for $75 per day if you shop around...An RV (24ft) will act as your hotel and your vehicle...a 24 ft. RV usually has 3 sleeping faciltities and can hold a lot of photo gear, not to mention cooking facilities, heating systems, etc. If you want to glance at the Eastern Sierra photographs...go to www.luninouslandscape.com or to Mamouth county in CA web site, they also have some nice shots.