GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK — The final phase of Grand Teton National Park’s (GTNP) renewal project at Mormon Row Historic District has begun.

The restoration project is a collaboration between GTNP and Grand Teton National Park Foundation (GTNPF) that aims to expand pedestrian and cyclist access and improve accessibility overall. Work on the initiative will include a redesigned parking area, pathways and updated interpretive elements, per GTNPF. Construction is expected to continue through November, though the area will remain open all season.

“The Mormon Row Historic District is one of Grand Teton’s most treasured places, and reaching this final phase is a significant milestone for our partnership with the park,” said GTNPF President Leslie Mattson in a statement. “We can’t wait for visitors to experience the end result.”

According to a social media post by GTNPF, plans include adding new ADA-accessible pathways and viewing areas near the T.A. Moulton Barn, along with interpretive elements. The new walking paths will aim to prevent erosion, vegetation loss and social trails. The future pathways will allow for areas that are open only to nonmotorized traffic. Also to be added: new restrooms, site furnishings like benches and trash cans, and a fully accessible Grand Teton Association facility for visitor information and sales.

  • Rendering of interpretive signage. Image: Grand Teton National Park Foundation
  • Rendering of improved facilities at the T.A. Moulton Barn. Image: Grand Teton National Park Foundation

There are currently two unpaved parking lots that can fit 14 vehicles, roadside bus parking for two buses and a bus turnaround, per GTNP. Informal vehicle turnarounds have been created by visitors, who also park in undesignated roadside areas and in bus-only parking. “This has led to vegetation trampling, soil damage, and unclear orientation to the site,” GTNP writes on its website. “The disorganized pattern of parking and vehicle flow contributes to safety issues for pedestrians and cyclists.”

A new parking lot is planned for the southeast corner of Antelope Flats Road and Mormon Row. By moving the parking area farther from the buildings, visitors will have unobstructed views of the historic structures and the mountains. The larger parking lot will also concentrate visitor activity and preserve the surrounding environment.

Monica is a Staff Reporter who studied journalism at Syracuse University and has been in the valley since 2015. She loves writing about the local food and bev scene, especially craft beer. When she’s not on the clock, you can find her paddle boarding, sewing, or whipping up a new recipe at home.