With 14 miles of groomed road, the region between Taggart Lake Trailhead and Signal Mountain Lodge is a destination in and of itself. Once on the road, winter travelers can go by foot, snowshoe, or ski and enjoy the splendor of winter in the Tetons. The region also offers a variety of terrain choices and scenic destinations from half day trips to full day tours—there's a little something for everyone!
The Lucas-Fabian Cabins are one of the many destinations accessed from the groomed road during winter. The homestead is approximately 5 miles round trip with less than 100 feet of elevation gain from the Taggart Lake Trailhead. Originally constructed by Geraldine Lucas and later acquired by Harold Fabian, the homestead is one of Grand Teton’s cherished historic and cultural resources. Geraldine Lucas became the second woman to climb the Grand Teton in 1924, and remained on the property year round until her death in 1938. In isolation, she braved harsh winters and deep snowpack, often using a team of Alaskan malamutes and a sled for transportation. Her sled is on display today in the transportation barn near Menor’s Ferry in Moose, Wyoming.
To reach the cabins, head north along the Teton Park Road from the Bradley-Taggart Trailhead. Continue for roughly 2 miles until you reach the Teton Glacier Turnout. Just north of this turnout, approximately 1/8 mile, is a small unmarked gate on the west side of the groomed road. Proceed around this gate and towards Cottonwood Creek where you will find a newly constructed foot bridge leading you to the Lucas-Fabian Homestead.
Thanks to a generous donor to the Foundation, the cabins and garage on the homestead have recently received much-needed preservation work, including structural stabilization, new roofing, log replacement, and a new ADA trail to improve access to this historical gem. All of the labor on the homestead structures was performed under strict preservation standards by the highly skilled carpenters and timber workers of the Western Center for Historic Preservation. By employing the same building techniques as Geraldine Lucas once did, these trained professionals revitalized the homestead’s pioneer character while remaining historically accurate. The ADA trail was a team effort between the GTNP Trail Crew, volunteers, and the Youth Conservation Program, and allows enhanced access for visitors of all abilities.
The new bridge finished during fall that leads to the cabins. Constructed with steel beams and heavy timbers, the bridge provides safe passage across Cottonwood Creek in all seasons.
Stunning view of the Grand Teton from the Lucas-Fabian homestead. This photo was taken upon completion of the new ADA trail in September 2016 before the first snowfall of the season. The dense winter snow will further compact the pathway creating a smooth, enjoyable walking surface.
Teton Park Road is scheduled to be groomed on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays throughout the winter season, weather depending. Want to support this community effort? Join us today.