Over the years, the area became greatly deteriorated as millions of visitors sought the famous views that define Jenny Lake. The cumulative damage threatened fragile habitat and prevented people with limited abilities from exploring all the area has to offer.
Jenny Lake's trails, bridges, key destinations, and visitor complex have transformed into a portal for discovery and now allow people with a wider range of abilities to connect with the park in meaningful, memorable ways. National Park Service crews dramatically improved access to iconic destinations such as Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls by building new stone steps, smoothing and leveling trails, and ensuring better drainage for rainwater and snowmelt. Work completed also reduces congestion and ambiguity by creating suggested directional trails, larger boat docks, increased restroom facilities, and designated areas to rest and take in the stunning views.
"The transformation that has taken shape at Jenny Lake is truly amazing and would not have been possible without the incredible public-private partnership between the Foundation and the park," Grand Teton National Park Foundation President Leslie Mattson said. "We cannot wait for visitors to experience the renewed Jenny Lake area."
Grand Teton National Park Foundation launched the Inspiring Journeys Campaign for Jenny Lake in 2012 and completed the fundraising effort on August 25, 2016-the National Park Service's 100th birthday. The Foundation raised $14.5 million and the National Park Service contributed more than $6 million to make the ambitious vision a reality.
Grand Teton National Park Acting Superintendent Gopaul Noojibail said, "The Jenny Lake Renewal Project enhances recreational opportunities for all, including those with limited abilities, as well as addressing approximately $6.8 million of deferred maintenance. We are proud of this amazing public-private project that increased our capability to serve visitors as we move into a second century of stewardship."
By offering an enhanced understanding of the people, place, and preservation efforts that shaped Grand Teton, the Foundation and park hope the outcomes achieved in this project will inspire the next generation of park supporters and stewards for years to come.
Jenny Lake by the Numbers:
•Stone for all trails and masonry construction: 2,550 tons
•Square footage of dry-stacked stone wall: 4,915
•Miles of reconstructed trail: 5.2
•Stone drains: 63
•Cubic feet of stone causeway: 4,474
•Bridges built: 5
•Historic structures rehabilitated: 3
Jeff
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