A rerouted trail from the visitor plaza leads directly to this spectacular lake overlook. When it is finished, the gap between the rocks will contain a bronze 3-D relief model of the peaks and canyons across the lake.
Summer 2017 is the fourth and final major construction season as part of our Inspiring Journeys campaign that is restoring Grand Teton’s most popular destination—Jenny Lake. This project will ultimately create an inviting and sustainable trail system, improving both wayfinding and accessibility. Work will continue in the frontcountry around the visitor center, general store, restrooms, and boat dock. Backcountry work will conclude at Hidden Falls and begin at Inspiration Point. Visitors will be impacted by construction this summer, so please be sure to stop by a visitor center or visit go.nps.gov/jennylake for the most up-to-date closure information as it will change throughout the summer.
Frontcountry
Crews work last fall to rebuild the east boat dock at Jenny Lake.
All South Jenny Lake visitor services will be OPEN throughout the busy summer season. Jenny Lake Boating is currently offering scenic cruises and is scheduled to start shuttle service in mid-June. Exum Mountain Guides is open and their office should be accessed from the Lupine Meadows Road. The Jenny Lake general store, campground, and visitor center are all open, and the Jenny Lake Ranger Station will open as usual on June 3rd.
Backcountry
Backcountry improvements will make the trails leading to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point easier to navigate and more sustainable for the park to maintain.
Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point will be closed during the early summer season. The park’s goal is to open both for public use by mid-June. The connector trail between the two will be closed all season. Visitors will be able to hike from the west shore boat dock to Hidden Falls and continue up .3 miles to a scenic viewpoint just below the traditional Inspiration Point. Those who wish to access Cascade Canyon should use the north horse trail.
Hiking trails along the southwest shore of Jenny Lake will also be closed during the early season. The park’s goal is to have these trails open by mid-June. This means walking a complete loop around the lake will not be possible until that time. Those who wish to access Cascade Canyon during the early season should park at the North Jenny Lake/String Lake Trailhead.
Before you go to Jenny Lake this summer
With views like this it is easy to understand why this is the most popular destination in Grand Teton National Park.
Plan Ahead: Check at a visitor center for current routes and trail closures as these will change several times until early July. Consider other destinations within the park, there are many great lakeshore hikes.
Arrive Early or Visit Late: Parking is limited, so plan on arriving before 9:00 am or after 4:00 pm. Bus, RV, and trailer parking is extremely limited, you are encouraged to drop off passengers and park elsewhere (along Jenny Lake access road, Teton Park Road, or in pullouts).
Be Safe, Go Slow, Be Aware: The South Jenny Lake area is an active construction zone, so observe closed areas, follow signage, and take your time.
We appreciate everyone’s patience and support during this time of renewal at Jenny Lake. It is incredible to see the vision become a reality at this iconic destination, and we look forward to the completion of the project in 2018.