JACKSON, Wyo. — National Geographic has stated that Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) “epitomizes the American West…composing one of the most iconic views in the country,” but early opposition to the establishment of the park almost prevented its protection.
According to the National Park Service (NPS), it took three separate governmental acts and multiple compromises over decades to see the creation of this national park.
Those who opposed GTNP included Idaho sheep ranchers, regional U.S. Forest Service personnel, Jackson Hole businessmen and area ranchers; concerns included reduced grazing allotments, restricted use on previously managed forest areas, hotel construction and concessioner monopolies.
“Animosity toward expanding governmental control and a perceived loss of individual freedoms fueled anti-park sentiments in Jackson Hole that nearly derailed establishment of the park,” the NPS website states.
But, on Sept. 14, 1950, the present day boundaries of GTNP were established, and the park is now ranked as one of the top 15 most visited national parks in the U.S. In 2021, GTNP hosted the highest number of recreation visits for one year in the park’s history, 3,885,230 visits.
