We are entering the final push of another busy summer of construction at Jenny Lake. Both the frontcountry and backcountry are progressing well and we look forward to visitors exploring these areas when project work is completed next spring.
The renewed interpretive plaza at Jenny Lake will greet visitors as they start their journey at this iconic destination. People will explore an interpretive plaza that will orient them to the area and introduce them to the history, ecology, and geology of the park.
Work at the interpretive plaza is still underway. Once complete, the area will greet visitors to Jenny Lake and include the historic entrance station to Grand Teton National Park.
Once they are finished in the plaza, visitors will experience a one-way looped pathway that takes them on a journey of discovery that eventually leads to the lakeshore. Temporary exhibits will be replaced next spring with bronze relief maps, which will give visitors the chance to learn the names of the peaks and canyons they are looking at across the lake. Wooden benches have been installed at viewing areas so that visitors can pause and take in the spectacular view.
One of many new sitting areas around the lakefront.
After making their way to the west side of Jenny Lake, visitors will experience another one-way loop trail. The Chasm Bridge is a new destination on the way to Hidden Falls where hikers can experience a thrilling viewpoint over Cascade Creek. The stonework that creates the trail leading up to the bridge was built by Grand Teton’s trail crew and was done entirely by hand. Trail work in the backcountry has created a safer walking experience with apparent footsteps instead of uneven rocks and exposed tree roots. Renewed trails will allow people of all ages and ability levels to experience Jenny Lake’s backcountry wonders.
The new Chasm Bridge over Cascade Creek.
A Grand Teton trail crew member utilizing dry stone masonry techniques to create the trail that leads to the Chasm Bridge.
Before and after photos of a section of trail that used to require hikers to walk over exposed roots. Now the roots are protected underneath the trail so this tree can thrive.
Inspiration Point itself has received a major facelift. The area that was once characterized by social trails and erosion has been renewed to accommodate groups of visitors who want to take in the birds-eye view of Jenny Lake. This area is not quite complete but will be open for visitors in spring 2019.
View of Jenny Lake from the lookout at Inspiration Point.
Thank you for your patience during this time of renewal at Grand Teton’s most popular destination. We can’t wait for you to experience Jenny Lake when work is complete next year!