New PFD Loaner Program in Grand Teton National Park

New Life Jacket Loaner Stations Now Available in Grand Teton

Every year, thousands of visitors head out onto the Snake River and Grand Teton's lakes to soak in some of the most spectacular scenery in the valley. But many don't realize just how quickly conditions can turn dangerous. Changing weather, cold water, fast-moving currents, and hidden obstacles can catch even experienced boaters off guard. That's why Grand Teton National Park Foundation and Grand Teton National Park have teamed up to launch a brand-new life jacket loaner program at key water access points throughout the park.

Loaner kiosks have been installed at four locations:

• Jackson Lake Dam
• Pacific Creek Landing
• String Lake
• Colter Bay Swim Beach

Each station is stocked with life jackets that visitors can borrow free of charge. When you're done on the water, simply return the life jacket to the same kiosk or to a downstream location.

Grand Teton's waterways draw visitors from all over the world, and the Foundation sees this program as a natural extension of its mission to enhance the visitor experience. As Foundation President Leslie Mattson puts it, everyone should have the chance to enjoy these waters safely.

Beyond the loaner jackets themselves, each kiosk offers guidance on proper fit, changing water conditions, and general boating safety. A few key reminders:

• Children under 13 must wear a life jacket at all times while on a boat.
• All boaters should wear a properly fitted life jacket or have one within easy reach.

This project came together thanks to funding from Grand Teton National Park Foundation, with support from the Snake River Fund—a local organization that has already run a similar loaner program on stretches of the Snake River south of the park—along with the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole and Rendezvous River Sports.

Keep an eye out for the park's Snake River Ambassadors, a Foundation-funded volunteer crew dedicated to protecting the river ecosystem and helping visitors stay safe on the water. You'll find them out at the kiosks this summer, ready to answer questions and share tips on how the program works.

If this summer's pilot program is a success, the park and Foundation hope to expand life jacket loaner stations to even more locations across Grand Teton in the years ahead.

Next time you head out onto the water, stop by a kiosk, grab a life jacket, and enjoy the view!

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