One of Grand Teton’s Most Famous Lakes Is Now More Accessible Than Ever

Jenny Lake is easily one of Grand Teton National Park‘s most wondrous sights. Made for serene boating and picnicking, the lake sits at the bottom of Cascade Canyon and is a supreme vantage point for gorgeous views of the Tetons. The thing is, the landmark desperately needed some TLC, and for the past several years, it’s been under renovation. July 3rd will mark the end of Grand Teton National Park Foundation and Grand Teton National Park’s $19MM public/private trail restoration and infrastructure renewal project at the picturesque lake, reopening it in time for summer adventures. The National Park Foundation is among the many donors making this project possible.

Features like new steps, level paths, and new drainage are meant to minimize hiker injury and provide greater access for those with disabilities, limited mobility, or beginner wilderness skills. The changes also support the Grand Teton National Park Foundation’s conservation message of preventing further damage to resources by keeping visitors on the trails and making the paths more sustainable to maintain over time.

This campaign has been much more than a maintenance project: overlooks, bridges, restrooms, a visitor complex, interpretive information, and even the size of the boat docks have been rehabbed. It’s a huge improvement from the deteriorating conditions of the area that included user-created trails, erosion, and poor signage.

Visitors head to Jenny Lake for its unique views, glassy mountain reflections, and alpine wilderness. This project provides more ways to connect with the area that will make for an easier and richer experience. Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point are favorite destinations that boast stunning views above the lake and across the valley. In addition to hiking, visitors can bike on a multi-use pathway, rent canoes and kayaks, launch a boat, pitch a tent, watch for wildlife like moose and ospreys, and fish for trout in season with a permit.