Construction Underway at Cottonwood Creek Picnic Area

If you've hiked to Taggart Lake this summer, you've probably noticed construction crews at work, new signage going up, and a trail that's steadily being reimagined to improve the experience for visitors of all abilities. This work is part of the multi-year project, Reimagining Taggart Lake, that is focused on improving access, addressing erosion, and protecting one of Grand Teton National Park's most heavily visited destinations.

In mid-August, construction began at the Cottonwood Creek picnic area, which is currently closed to visitors. Once complete, the redesigned space will offer a comfortable place to stop for lunch, rest under a shade structure on a hot day, and take in the surrounding mountain views. An improved surface will also make the picnic area accessible to visitors using wheelchairs. The Taggart Lake Trailhead and parking lot remain open, but construction activity and changing conditions will continue through the fall. Work on the section of trail closest to the parking lot is also expected to begin this fall. Visitors should follow all posted signage and stay out of active construction zones, to help keep both hikers and work crews safe.

The northern portion of the Taggart Lake Trail remains closed for reconstruction, but Taggart Lake is accessible via the longer and steeper southern route, at approximately 4.25 miles roundtrip.

Grand Teton's trail crew has made significant progress along the route to Taggart Lake, building on last year's work to bury overhead powerlines and replace the first bridge. Crews have continued improving the trail surface, drainage structures, and grades to create a more sustainable and accessible route.

Once this phase of work is complete, the trail to the first bridge will be accessible to visitors using frontcountry wheelchairs. Additional improvements farther along the route are designed to expand access for adaptive athletes using mobility devices while maintaining the character of the backcountry trail.

Throughout the project, crews are using materials and construction techniques designed to withstand heavy use and the demands of the mountain environment. The result will be a more durable and sustainable trail that can better support high visitation while preserving the surrounding landscape for years to come.

To the many supporters who have made this project a reality, thank you for your continued partnership and support. We look forward to sharing the ongoing progress as this vision for Taggart Lake takes shape.