Park Pathways and Transportation Systems in Grand Teton National Park
NPCA is the leader in advocating a new multi-modal pathways system in Grand Teton that will enhance access to the park in ways that will help reduce the impacts of the motor vehicle system. NPCA has been actively engaged in park transportation planning, advocating for a complete park transportation system, including alternatives such as pathways for bicycling and walking access, and public transit between the gateway communities and the main park activity centers.
Grand Teton National Park has developed a visionary multi-use pathways system that, when complete, will benefit the local community and visitors by offering a safe experience for hikers, bikers, and families for generations to come. The system, which could serve as a model within the park system, will entice visitors to park their cars, helping to reduce traffic congestion and emissions, improve visitor safety, reduce wildlife collisions and ultimately leading to a richer park experience.
Through his successful efforts to fund the pathways system, Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) has helped to fulfill an important vision of the late Sen. Craig Thomas. Sen. Thomas lobbied for the initial funding necessary to plan the pathways and begin construction on phase one of the project. The new funding will allow the park to extend the multi-modal system from Moose, WY, the home of the new Grand Teton Craig Thomas Discovery Center, to the popular Jenny Lake area. It will also fund a portion of the trail connecting Jenny Lake to the String Lake area along the base of the Teton Range. Over the duration of the construction, NPCA will work to ensure that the Grand Teton pathway is constructed in an environmentally sensitive manner, taking into consideration impacts to wildlife and habitat within the park.
There is more to do, but with Sen. Barrasso’s continued support, this achievement in planning will soon be a reality. Like many, we look forward to a grand groundbreaking ceremony this spring.
Read more about NPCA's Grand Teton Field Office
